There’s a reason dogs are known as man’s best friend. They’re loyal, loving, faithful, and — let’s face it — adorable. However, snuggly sidekicks can take a toll on your home, whether your furry friend is a dog, cat, bunny, or baby goat. Durable, pet-friendly flooring is a necessity, especially if your critter companion is older or has special needs.
In this blog post, we’ll explore some flooring options for pet owners, present some things to consider, and help you decide what flooring option is right for both you and your little friends.
Carpet
Carpet is tricky when it comes to homes with four-legged roommates. On one hand, it’s soft, comfortable, and good for pets with problems like arthritis; on the other hand, it can also trap shed hair and dander, which means it needs to be cleaned often. Additionally, carpet is not great for moisture exposure (as sometimes happens with potty accidents) and can harbor mold and mildew growth.
If you decide to go with carpet, look for pet-proof options that are antimicrobial, hypoallergenic, water-repellant, and stain-resistant. Keep in mind that these specialized carpets typically come with a higher price tag. However, they are more durable and longer-lasting, minimizing the need for repairs or replacement and potentially saving you money in the long run.
Tile
Tile is an ideal choice for families with furry friends who are worried about damaged floors. With a long life and resistance to water and scratches, porcelain tile is an especially great option. It’s typically cool to the touch, so your dog will love stretching out on the tile floor after an intense game of fetch or a long walk in the summer sun.
However, tile’s hard surface is not always suitable for aging pets. It can be tough on creaky joints, and its slipperiness can make it hard for your cuddly compatriots to get a good grip. Plus, if you’re bothered by the sound of your dog’s nails clicking on the floor, tile is probably not ideal.
If you opt for tile, it’s probably best to keep it in smaller areas like the kitchen or bathroom, ensuring your critter comrade remains comfortable as they grow older.
Hardwood
When we talk about hardwood flooring, we typically mean one of two options: solid hardwood or engineered hardwood. Solid hardwood is exactly what it sounds like — a slab of wood — while engineered hardwood is made of layers, including a layer of natural wood on the top and bottom and a plywood core in between.
Both types of hardwood offer some level of water resistance and scratch protection, but are not as durable as tile. For maximum scratch protection, opt for the hardest type of hardwood. Additionally, options with rustic finishes are ideal for camouflaging scratches, but keep in mind that darker colors will show pet hair more than lighter shades.
Luxury Vinyl Planks (LVP)
Luxury vinyl planks are meant to mimic the look and texture of natural wood, but are typically more durable and easier to clean. There’s an endless array of options, including waterproof, water resistant, scratch resistant, antimicrobial, stain resistant, and skid resistant vinyl, all of which are excellent for pet-friendly homes. It’s also quiet underfoot and more comfortable than tile or hardwood, making it better for aging companions.
If your abode is also home to critters and creatures, opt for vinyl with a thick, durable protective layer. Thin protective layers can dull easily, impacting the aesthetics of your floors and increasing the frequency you’ll need replacements.
Laminate
Along with LVP, laminate flooring is one of the best options for pet owners. It’s known for standing up to scratches and stains, and requires minimal effort to clean. Make sure you choose scratch-resistant, water-resistant, and/or noise-resistant laminate flooring. Keep in mind that it’s slipperier than LVP, though, making it less comfortable for older pets with musculoskeletal issues.
Create a Pet-Friendly Home with Rosewood
Your beloved buddy deserves the best. As you consider how to create a paradise for your pets, make sure you give some thought to your flooring and find something that’s comfortable, durable, and easy to clean while also enhancing your home’s aesthetics.
At Rosewood, we pride ourselves on offering a wide range of flooring solutions, and we’re confident that you’ll find the perfect option for your home. Plus, with our expert installation and outstanding customer service, your satisfaction is guaranteed. If you’re ready for new flooring, contact us today to meet with one of our team members and receive a free estimate.
