For many of us, pets are a very important part of our lives. Whether we’re talking about our Labrador, our house cat, or our child’s hamster, pets are integral to our family, and because of this, they end up spending significant amounts of time inside our homes. But even the most well-trained pets are prone to the occasional accident. With this in mind, pet owners need durable, easy-to-clean flooring that aligns with their lifestyle.
What to Consider When Choosing Pet-Friendly Flooring
Considering the many options available, choosing the best flooring can be challenging. To help with your decision-making, take note of these factors to ensure you find the most pet-friendly flooring:
- Scratch resistance: It’s natural for animals to scratch on surfaces, especially when trying to make themselves feel comfortable. Prevent damage by choosing flooring with scratch-resistant properties.
- Water and stain resistance: Spills and accidents are frequent scenarios in homes with pets, especially if you’re still in the potty-training stage. Choose water- and stain-resistant flooring to deal with these accidents with one quick swipe and protect your floors from lasting harm.
- Comfort: Some flooring options may be more comfortable for pets, depending on your location. Hardwood and tile flooring, for example, are great for warmer climates because they give your pets a cooler surface to lie on.
- Cost: Get the best value for your money by choosing pet-friendly flooring that matches your lifestyle. You can also find a flooring company that offers financing options to meet your budget.
- Upkeep: Aside from potty accidents, having pets at home could also mean muddy paws, hairballs and spilled food on the floor. You want your flooring to be as low-maintenance as possible, especially if you have a full-time job or younger kids.
Our Picks for the Best Flooring Options
The team at Choice Floor Center is here to help you find the ideal flooring materials for you and your pets. These are the best flooring options for pet owners:
Engineered Hardwood Flooring
High-quality engineered hardwood is an incredibly pet-friendly flooring option. This flooring is hypoallergenic because it doesn’t trap allergens and pet dander. Another benefit is that engineered hardwood can be more affordable than actual hardwood while offering much of the same beauty. All in all, it’s a great option for pet owners.
Laminate Flooring
Laminate is a solid flooring option for pet owners. With its built-in scratch-resistant technology, laminate flooring will not fall victim to damage from claws and paws walking across the floor. This durable flooring can withstand scratches and liquid spills. Also, wiping pet messes promptly can help homeowners avoid long-term damage from pet-related accidents. Many laminate products are waterproof, making them suitable for homes with pets.
Tile Flooring
Both durable and attractive, tile flooring is a great option for pet owners. It can withstand the daily wear that comes with having pets, and mishaps can be wiped away. In terms of home aesthetics, many tile options can realistically replicate the look of hardwood floors and natural stones and are frequently in style. It’s also worth mentioning that tile flooring can last for decades if properly cared for.
Luxury Vinyl Flooring
Luxury vinyl is another low-maintenance option for homeowners. Both durable and stylish, it’s a great choice for those looking for cost-effective flooring. With its waterproof and scratch-resistant properties, luxury vinyl is more than capable of taking on whatever your pet presents. Walking on luxury vinyl is comfortable for your pet’s paws and joints. Design-wise, luxury vinyl can replicate the look of traditional hardwood floors and tiles, giving you more flexibility.
These four material options are great if you’re in the market for pet-friendly home flooring. For more design options, visit Choice Floors & Stairways or shop from the comfort of your home.
Tips to Maintain Your Floor's Quality
Keeping your floors pristine requires consistent upkeep. Whether you have hardwood, tile, laminate or luxury vinyl flooring, follow these tips to make them last a long time:
- Clean spills immediately: Keep liquids from sitting on the floor or seeping through the material to prevent stains and lasting damage.
- Put a rug underneath your pet’s food and water bowls: This prevents spillage and keeps the floor from getting slippery.
- Trim your pet’s nails regularly: This proper pet hygiene is also great for preventing scratch marks all over the house.
- Mop and vacuum frequently: Mopping and vacuuming floors only takes a few minutes, and doing it frequently removes pet hair and dander and keeps your floors looking fresh.
Why Consider Replacing Your Floor?
Your pets will live their entire lives with you, so it’s only right to make sure your flooring is comfortable for them. If you notice your dog sliding when running around the house, it could be because your floors are too slippery for their paws.
Consider replacing your floors with the best types of flooring for pets, whether you want easy-to-clean or high-traction options. Pick a material from Choice Floors & Stairways and we can schedule a measure for your home right away. Want to see how our flooring looks in your home? Try our Room Visualizer tool.
Work With Choice Floors & Stairways
Choice Floors & Stairways offers a wide range of pet-friendly flooring options. With our commitment to design excellence, you can be sure you’re getting the perfect flooring for your dream home. Visit us for expert recommendations and other services. You can also contact us to schedule an appointment with our team.