The WORST Flooring Choices That Could Tank Your Home's Value

The WORST Flooring Choices That Could Tank Your Home's Value

Do you know what the worst flooring decision you can make in your home is? One that could significantly decrease your home's value? If not, stick around because this article is for you. We're diving into the top flooring choices that will increase your home's value and the absolute worst ones that will decrease it.

The Importance of Flooring in Home Value

I've seen a lot of floors in homes—I've toured thousands of homes and looked at countless pictures online. And trust me, flooring is a big deal when someone is looking to buy a home. It's expensive to replace, and very personalized, making it crucial to choose wisely whether you're remodeling or preparing to sell.

A Personal Flooring Fiasco

I remember the video I did about the tile in my house that I hated. Our house had been on the market for ages without selling, and the tile was to blame. It was everywhere and removing it would be a massive project, costing a lot of time, effort, and money. Many buyers just didn't want to deal with it. When we bought the house, I saw its potential but knew the tile had to go.

Flooring Choices that Increase Home Value

Hardwood Floors: The Timeless Favorite

Hardwood is probably no surprise as a top choice. In the Chicagoland area where I grew up, hardwood was everywhere. It's timeless, exuding warmth and comfort. It can be refinished to look new, making it a durable, long-lasting option. While some might worry about hardwood in kitchens, unless there's a significant leak, hardwood can work beautifully throughout your home, including the kitchen.

Engineered Hardwood: Perfect for Humid Climates

For those in warmer, humid climates, engineered hardwood is a fantastic alternative. It combines a thin layer of real wood with a sturdy base of plywood or high-density fiberboard, making it resistant to warping. We chose this for our home, replacing the tile, and I couldn't be happier. It's durable, looks great, and even with our dog, it has held up wonderfully.

Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP): Cost-Effective and Stylish

If you're looking for a more budget-friendly option, especially if your house is at a lower price point, luxury vinyl plank is a great alternative. It's durable, aesthetically pleasing, and significantly cheaper than hardwood. While it's not as long-lasting and can be scratched or punctured, it's an excellent choice if you're planning to move in a few years and don't want to invest heavily.

Flooring Choices to Avoid

Ceramic Tile: A Risky Bet

I'm not a fan of ceramic tile, especially because homeowners often choose incorrectly. Tile removal is costly and time-consuming, making it a less appealing option for potential buyers. However, in bathrooms and homes where tile fits the aesthetic, it can work if chosen correctly.

Carpet: A Diminishing Return

Carpet is another flooring choice that doesn't add much value. While some people love it, most buyers don't like moving into a home with someone else's old carpet. If you're planning to stay in your home for a long time, you might have to replace the carpet before selling, doubling your costs. Plus, cheaper carpets can look tacky and diminish the home's appeal.

Cheap Laminate: A Definite No

Avoid cheap laminate flooring. It feels subpar underfoot and doesn't add value to your home. While it might look okay in pictures, buyers will notice the difference in person.

Vinyl Sheet Flooring: The Absolute Worst

The worst flooring choice you can make is vinyl sheet flooring. It's unattractive and doesn't fool anyone. Buyers will see it as a cheap fix and something they need to replace immediately, decreasing your home's value.

The Biggest Mistake: Covering Hardwood

Lastly, never cover your hardwood floors with other substances, except perhaps carpet in a bedroom. Hardwood floors, whether thin or thick plank, retain their value. Covering them is a sure way to decrease your home's appeal and value.

Conclusion

Flooring decisions can significantly impact your home's value. Whether you're planning to live there for years or sell soon, choosing the right flooring is crucial. Always consult with a decorator for the best choices, and avoid the pitfalls of cheap, unattractive options.

If you have any flooring dilemmas, join our Facebook group and share pictures of your floors. I’ll provide personal advice to help you make the best decisions and increase your home's value. Remember, flooring is an investment—choose wisely!