How to Choose Your Flooring

Picking FlooringIf a flooring overhaul is on your home improvement project list this summer, you first must learn about the different flooring options at your disposal. Having your children and pets running around the house would mean choosing a flooring material that’s durable, long-lasting, and requires low maintenance.

The ideal flooring material for a home with children and pets is a material that does not require replacement every 3 to 5 years. Follow these top tips from leading technicians when choosing the right flooring for your home!

Which Area of the House Requires Flooring

Picking the right flooring material is nothing short of a challenge when you don’t have any previous experience or professional guidance. The first step is to determine which part of your home you will be renovating.

If you wish to replace your bathroom flooring, the most durable and water sound options would be porcelain or ceramic tile, or marble and stone. These materials have high to medium water absorbency and better longevity when exposed to water for long hours. Hardwood, engineered hardwood, porcelain, and ceramic tile make for great kitchen floors due to their durability and natural tendency to resist staining.

Consider your Overall Foot Traffic

Durable flooring in high-traffic areas is a must! It is also important to consider maintenance. Carpeting in a high-traffic area of your home may not be an ideal option as it will require regular cleaning to remove dirt and staining. Hard surfaces are highly recommended due to low maintenance of cleaning and durability.

Your Flooring Budget

Knowing your budget is an essential element for choosing the most appropriate flooring material. Laminate, hardwood (and engineered hardwood), and tile all come in low, mid, and high-end ranges to fit within your budget limitations. Always account for more square footage than you actually need to have extra stock on hand should major damage occur.

Chicago Flooring Trends

Chicago homeowners are enthusiastically embracing a new wave of flooring trends that artfully combine style, durability, and sustainability. Whether updating a classic historic brownstone or modernizing a sleek condo, these evolving trends reflect the diverse tastes and preferences of Chicago residents.

Wide Plank Hardwood

One of the most sought-after choices is wide plank hardwood flooring. This trend captures the essence of open, airy spaces, often evoking a sense of nature indoors. Homeowners gravitate toward light wood tones, particularly white oak and blonde finishes, which impart a timeless elegance while maintaining a contemporary feel. The wider boards not only maximize visual space but also lend a seamless look that enhances any interior design.

Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Materials

In 2025, sustainability has become a key priority for many homeowners. An increasing number are opting for eco-conscious materials like reclaimed wood, bamboo, and cork. These choices not only minimize environmental impact but also provide exceptional durability. Beyond aesthetics, these materials promote a healthier indoor environment, rich in natural elements and free from harmful chemicals.

Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP) Flooring

Luxury vinyl plank flooring is enjoying continued popularity due to its impressive affordability and remarkable waterproof capabilities. This versatile flooring option boasts a wide array of stylish designs, and thanks to innovative technological advances, LVP can mimic the appearance of natural hardwood with astonishing accuracy. As a result, it is especially appealing for high-traffic areas where durability is crucial without sacrificing style.

Warm and Earthy Tones

As the trend of gray flooring begins to fade, homeowners are gravitating toward warm, earthy tones. Rich browns, inviting beiges, and natural wood hues are replacing cooler shades, creating a cozy and welcoming ambiance. This shift aligns beautifully with the growing trend of soft minimalism, where simplicity meets warmth and comfort.

Textured Finishes

The sleek, smooth floors of the past are stepping aside as textured finishes gain popularity. Hand-scraped, wire-brushed, and distressed surfaces are becoming favored options, introducing depth and character to living spaces. These unique textures not only enhance visual appeal but also offer added durability, making them practical for everyday living.

Bold Patterns and Geometric Designs

Chicago homeowners are courageously experimenting with bold patterns and geometric designs to make striking statements in their interiors. From elegant herringbone and dynamic chevron patterns to intricately designed tiles, these creative flooring choices elevate spaces, providing a distinctive flair that complements both modern and traditional aesthetics.

Indoor-Outdoor Flooring Transitions

With the rising trend of seamless indoor-outdoor living, many homeowners are selecting flooring materials that bridge the gap between their indoor and outdoor spaces. Porcelain tiles, durable composite decking, and waterproof LVP have emerged as favored choices for patios and sunrooms, creating a harmonious flow that encourages a lifestyle of leisure and connectivity with nature.
In summary, the flooring trends in Chicago for 2025 beautifully reflect a harmonious blend of style, sustainability, and practicality. Whether you lean toward the natural allure of wide plank hardwood, eco-friendly materials, or striking geometric patterns, there is an abundant array of options to enhance your home’s unique aesthetic, making it a true haven of comfort and style.

Hire Our Experienced Professional Chicago Home Remodelers

Many people prefer hiring a contractor for flooring rather than taking it on as a DIY project. Even if you have some knowledge about flooring and the materials you will need to use along with different equipment and tools, it is oftentimes more budget and time effective to hire an experienced professional. Speak to an experienced contractor who will not only guide you but will also understand your project and needs.

If you reside in the Chicago area and are considering remodeling, refinishing your hardwood floors, or installing a new floor, contact Areté Renovators today at (773) 610-4551 to schedule a free consultation.

(5/8/2025)