Hardwood flooring may probably be the most popular flooring material in the market. Unfortunately, hardwood does not fit all circumstances, including your budget. When it comes to home remodeling projects, flooring can eat up a huge portion of your budget. But you still want to spruce up your flooring, don’t you? Fret not! With the help of modern manufacturing techniques, inexpensive flooring options abound. In this day and age, manufacturers have revolutionized the way they create attractive flooring materials without having to pay an arm and a leg. These flooring options won’t let you sacrifice value and style for cost. So, in this blog, we have put together a list of 7 stylish and inexpensive flooring options you can get in the market today.
Wood-Look Vinyl Flooring
Gone are the days where you can have outdated, boring vinyl flooring. Today, this affordable flooring material can mimic the look of genuine hardwood, creating a visual appeal to your home. Vinyl flooring comes in a wide array of selections, designs, and colors that can complement any décor inside your home. It is also available in an easy-to-install version where you can install it as a floating floor—meaning, you can just snap it together without the need to gluing or nailing it down. This makes vinyl flooring DIY-friendly.
The average cost of vinyl flooring installation and materials ranges from $3.50 to $15 per square foot—making it one of the most inexpensive flooring options these days. Though the cost typically varies depending on the quality and types of vinyl products you choose, it is best to ask your local vinyl flooring contractor to provide you better options and prices.
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Bamboo Flooring
If you’re looking for a real wood alternative for a fraction of the price, then bamboo flooring is an ideal choice. According to HomeAdvisor, the average material cost of bamboo for a 125-square foot room is $480, which is $3.84 per square foot. Bamboo is not only less expensive than solid hardwood, but it is also durable. It can stand up so well in a lot of abuse and impact over time. Plus, its planks look similar to genuine hardwood.
Another great thing about bamboo flooring is that it is 100% eco-friendly. It comes from a renewable, all-natural source, so you can guarantee that it won’t emit any toxic substances that may harm human health. This makes a good flooring option for anyone with asthma or allergies.
Carpet Tiles
While several carpet types appear luxurious and costly, others are quite inexpensive. One of the most affordable carpet flooring types is carpet tile or modular carpet. This type of carpet flooring is laid per square and glued down on the floor. In most cases, you don’t need to install carpet padding underneath, so it saves you time and money. It utilizes tight loops to make the process of installation much easier without compromising its durability. The average cost of the glue-down carpet ranges between $4 and $7 per square foot. But, as always, you can contact a carpet installer near you for a free in-home consultation, so you can make an informed decision.
You can read more about carpet flooring here:
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Porcelain Or Ceramic Tile Flooring
Tile flooring is a perennial choice not only in floor remodeling but also in other types of indoor and outdoor projects. If you want to try out inexpensive flooring options other than vinyl or laminate, then you can opt for tile flooring. Be it ceramic or porcelain, this flooring material is available in a variety of colors, sizes, and designs to add visual appeal to your home. It can also mimic marble, natural stones, and wood-grain textures. While tile flooring is relatively durable and low maintenance, it can be hard and cold underfoot. The installation process can also be challenging for DIYers.
The cost of porcelain and ceramic tiles in indoor settings are different. Ceramic tile is less expensive because it is less durable and much softer than porcelain tile. The material cost of ceramic tile ranges from $0.50 to $7 per square foot. Porcelain tile, on the other hand, costs between $3 and $10 per square foot.
Laminate Flooring
Laminate may fall into the moderate category when it comes to price, but there are inexpensive options you can choose from. This floor covering comes in a wide array of colors and styles, which includes those types that mimic the look of solid hardwood, natural stone, and other hard surface materials. It is also durable, making it a good choice for high foot traffic areas such as hallways and kitchens. But the best thing about laminate flooring is that it has low maintenance requirements. Because it is resistant to mold or mildew, and won’t fade due to sun exposure, you can easily clean and maintain it.
The cost of laminate flooring usually depends on the thickness and quality. The thinner the product, the less expensive it is. The average laminate floor cost is ranging between $0.70 and $2 per square foot, which typically depends on the type and finish. The most inexpensive flooring options among laminate types are red oak, white oak, and maple. You also need to consider labor costs and other expenses based on your flooring area and the complexity of the project. In this case, it is important to talk to the flooring experts or your local floor contractor near you.
If you find this helpful, you may also check out these related articles:
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Cork Flooring
Like bamboo, cork flooring is an environmentally friendly option. Not only it is durable, but it can also resist mold and mildew. Because of its unique structure, cork flooring has a cushiony surface that can be comfortable to walk on and soft underfoot. This makes an ideal choice for the kitchen, especially if you spend long hours standing when cooking or preparing meals. Plus, it is easy to clean and maintain.
The cost of cork flooring varies depending on the quality, color, and style. Typically, the cost of cork flooring ranges between $3 and $12 per square foot.
Linoleum Flooring
Linoleum is coming back with an upgraded and stylish variety. It has a wide selection of colors and designs that can mimic natural stone and wood grains. Linoleum is not only one of the most inexpensive flooring options, but it is also a durable and low maintenance material. It is comfortable underfoot, so it is a good choice for a family with young kids or mobility-challenged members.
Linoleum flooring comes in tiles and sheets. Not including installation, the average cost of linoleum tiles is approximately $3.50 per square foot. On the other hand, sheets of linoleum flooring are valued between $2 and $2.50 per square foot.
Related: Is Linoleum Flooring Right For Your Home?
It’s Time To Contact Your Local Flooring Experts
Inexpensive flooring options can really save you time and money if it is done right. A home with less expensive flooring can have a high-end look for as long as it is installed properly. Before you even start your flooring makeover, make it a habit to contact a local flooring specialist near you for better recommendations and cost-effective solutions. If you badly need one today, feel free to connect with us. Schedule a free in-home consultation!