Flooring Ideas - Empire Today Blog https://www.empiretoday.com/blog/tag/flooring-ideas/ Flooring guides, tips, tricks, and trends! Fri, 12 Apr 2024 17:56:05 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.7.1 Rustic Home Flooring 101: Types, Trends, and Tips https://www.empiretoday.com/blog/rustic-flooring-101-tips-and-types/ https://www.empiretoday.com/blog/rustic-flooring-101-tips-and-types/#respond Tue, 14 Nov 2023 23:00:58 +0000 https://www.empiretoday.com/blog/?p=23549 Picture this: You’ve just arrived home after a long day of work. You open the front door of your cozy yet spacious bungalow (or vintage farmhouse, or tidy cottage, or secluded cabin – your choice) and set down your keys and coat in the entryway. You head into the main living area, open concept, of […]

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Rustic home - laminate flooring in shades of brown and grey with furniture legs visible, suggesting a cozy, homey interior.

Picture this: You’ve just arrived home after a long day of work. You open the front door of your cozy yet spacious bungalow (or vintage farmhouse, or tidy cottage, or secluded cabin – your choice) and set down your keys and coat in the entryway. You head into the main living area, open concept, of course, where you’re greeted by the sight of the afternoon sun filtering through the gauzy curtains and casting a golden hue over the gorgeous, distressed wood flooring of your living room.  

You make your way into the kitchen to get dinner started, noticing that someone has spilled water on the floor. Not a problem, you think as you grab a towel to wipe it up. The vinyl plank floor looks nearly indistinguishable from the weathered hardwood you might find in a rural farmhouse kitchen, yet the product you chose is completely waterproof. A quick swipe of the towel and it’s good as new.  

After the evening’s activities are complete, you retire to your bedroom, a tranquil retreat awash in soft, muted tones. Although you’ve chosen to place an area rug near the bed as part of the decor, you reflect on how it’s not really necessary thanks to the comfortable and beautiful wood laminate you’ve chosen for the bedrooms.  

If this all sounds like heaven to you, you probably find yourself drawn to the timeless allure of rustic design. Rustic home flooring is the perfect choice to infuse your space with that warmth, character, and natural beauty that’s so appealing about the bygone days. 

At Empire Today® we absolutely adore rustic design, and we’re excited that it’s grown in popularity over the years. As we delve into the rustic flooring trend, we’ll explore the various styles, materials, and design possibilities that make this enduring aesthetic a true classic. 

Introduction to the Rustic Flooring Trend 

In an age where technology dominates nearly every aspect of our lives, it’s hardly surprising that more and more people are being drawn to the rugged appeal of rustic interior design, both for their homes and workplaces. The authenticity and connection to nature of rustic flooring can serve as a powerful counterbalance to our increasingly digital experience.  

The Timeless Appeal of Rustic Flooring 

Rustic interior design is deeply rooted in the unique pioneering history of the U.S. Early settlers brought very few belongings as they left larger cities to disperse throughout the rugged expanse of the wild west. When it came time to build and furnish their homesteads, these pioneers had no choice but to rely on local, natural materials. This resourcefulness not only shaped their living and working spaces, but also fostered a design aesthetic that celebrates the beauty of simplicity and the authenticity of the American frontier. 

Rustic flooring is so much more than just a trend; it’s truly a tribute to the skilled hands that have shaped our history! 

What is considered a Rustic Home? 

These days most of us aren’t chopping down trees to build our own cabins and furniture, but that doesn’t mean we can’t create the same atmosphere of natural, tasteful simplicity found in the rustic homes of yore. Understanding where rustic design elements originate can help define the overall aesthetic. 

  • With no other materials or manufacturing available, wood was the primary material used for flooring and walls. The colors, lines, ridges, and knots of local hardwood contributed to the unique character of each building. 
  • Natural light from windows and doorways was a requirement in the days before electricity and is a must-have in our modern world, where we spend so much of our time indoors. 
  • Our foremothers and forefathers didn’t get their furniture and decor from factories, they designed and built everything they needed and wanted from scratch. That means not every edge was perfectly straight, smooth, rounded…you get the idea. These imperfect design elements, when used today, create a warm and inviting atmosphere in the typical modern home. 
  • It would be a mistake to overlook the subtle ways in which “Mother Nature’s colors” give life to any home decor. In rustic design, you’re sure to find wood grains or stone, beiges, pale greens, or warmer shades of white, along with iron, pewter, or copper fixtures gleaming in all that natural light. 

Rustic Floors are Here to Stay 

When it comes to interior design, trends come and go (think the shag carpeting and avocado green appliances of the 1970s, or the beige walls, floral prints, and wicker furniture of the 1990s). One of the most exciting aspects of rustic flooring is that its beauty and simplicity transcends short-lived design trends. Rustic flooring compliments a huge variety of interior design styles and can be adapted to suit different aesthetics such as traditional, farmhouse, industrial, or contemporary, making it a much safer investment than those massive, wooden entertainment centers that dominated living rooms circa 2002! 

Incorporating Natural Aesthetics in Your Home 

Welcoming nature into our homes has never been more important than in today’s fast-paced world, where maintaining a connection with the great outdoors can be a real challenge. In fact, studies have shown that exposure to natural elements, such as wood, plants, and stone, can actually lower cortisol and increase feelings of relaxation – something most of us could use! Rustic flooring’s enduring appeal lies in its ability to invoke those feelings of peace and tranquility you get from an afternoon in the woods, without ever leaving your living room.  

Types of Rustic Flooring 

Unlike the pioneer days, when the only building materials available were whatever was growing nearby, we offer a wide variety of rustic floor products to choose from. Finding the perfect floors to fit any aesthetic, budget, and lifestyle has never been easier.  

Distressed Wood Flooring 

 Newer wood can take on those gorgeous, timeworn characteristics by using techniques such as hand-scraping. In hand-scraping, also known as hand-planing, a special tool is used to scrape the surface of the wood to create a more textured, stately appearance. Hand-scraped wood flooring is often used for restoration projects or rustic homes. 

Reclaimed Wood Flooring 

If sustainability is your main concern, look no further than reclaimed wood. Reclaimed wood is typically salvaged from older commercial buildings, vintage barns, or other demolished structures. Besides the fact that it’s an environmentally friendly flooring option, reclaimed wood is also prized for its unique and character-rich appearance. Whether it’s nail holes, knots, saw marks, or naturally weathered textures, each plank has a story of its own to tell. Reclaimed wood is typically more expensive than traditional new wood or engineered flooring due to the labor-intensive process of sourcing, salvaging, and preparing the wood. 

Wide Plank Flooring 

Wide plank floors are known for their stunning visual impact. The wider planks (typically around 5” or more) showcase the grain patterns, color variations, and subtle contrasts of the wood and can create a sense of spaciousness in a room. Wide plank flooring has historical roots and is often associated with American and European homes. Thanks to their more traditional look, wide plank flooring is a popular choice for anyone seeking to add a rustic element to their home. 

Stone-Look Flooring 

The earthy, textured appearance of stone-look floors aligns with rustic design’s emphasis on natural elements. Stone-look flooring is typically made from materials like porcelain or ceramic tile, luxury vinyl tile, or laminate that are engineered to replicate the texture, color, and veining patterns found in natural stone. Stone-look flooring is typically highly durable and resistant to wear and tear, and is relatively low maintenance and budget-friendly compared to natural stone. 

How to Choose the Best Rustic Flooring 

Selecting the ideal rustic flooring for your space is a process that goes beyond aesthetics alone. Finding the right product means striking that perfect balance between your design vision, practical needs, and the unique character of each flooring option. 

Define Your Style 

The sheer variety of rustic floor products on the market can make finding the perfect fit feel a bit overwhelming. Understanding your own personal style will help you narrow down your options and make the sometimes daunting task of selecting floors a more enjoyable experience. When you schedule an appointment with Empire, a flooring professional visits you in your home where they are better able to help you narrow down the choices. 

Consider Your Lifestyle 

Thinking about the function of the room or rooms where you plan to install your rustic flooring is key to finding the right fit. Do you have kids, pets, or both? Which rooms get the most traffic, and which might be exposed to topical moisture? Rest assured you will be able to find the perfect rustic floor product for every area of your home. 

Color, Pattern, and Finish 

Today’s rustic floor products are nothing if not versatile. Not only are there a variety of materials to choose from, the color palette of rustic flooring offered at Empire® ranges from rich, earthy tones like deep browns and warm reds, to lighter, more weathered hues such as soft grays.  

In terms of patterns, rustic floors can showcase diverse arrangements of planks or tiles. These patterns can be customized depending on the vibe you’re going for – whether it’s the classic farmhouse look, a contemporary loft, or a cozy cabin retreat.  

The finish of rustic floor products is yet another aspect that enhances their appeal. Matte finishes provide a subtle, understated elegance, while semi-gloss or high-gloss finishes offer a sleek, polished look. And of course, the popular distressed/hand-scraped finishes create that charming, weathered appearance and highlight the natural character of the wood. 

Maintaining Your Rustic Flooring

Rustic flooring is not only durable, it’s also relatively easy to maintain. As with any type of flooring, a little TLC in the form of regular cleaning and minimal maintenance will help keep it looking its best for years to come.  

Regular Cleaning and Care 

Cleaning your rustic flooring depends somewhat on the materials used to create the floor. However, these general rules apply to the care of most types of rustic flooring. 

  • Dry cleaning: Sweep or vacuum the floor on a regular basis to remove dust, dirt, and debris. Be sure to use a soft-bristle broom or a vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment to avoid scratching the surface. 
  • Gentle mopping: For routine cleaning, use a damp (not soaking wet) mop or microfiber mop to clean the floor. Avoid excess water on hardwood floors, as it can damage wood and cause swelling. 
  • Avoid harsh chemicals: Never use harsh chemicals, abrasive cleaners, or wax-based products on rustic flooring. Instead, opt for a pH-balanced, manufacturer-recommended floor cleaner specifically formulated for your type of floor. 
  • Clean up spills immediately: This one is probably obvious, but letting spilled food or liquid sit on certain types of flooring for too long can cause staining and other damage. Use a soft, dry cloth or paper towel to blot up liquid spills. Sticky substances can be scraped off (gently!) with a plastic scraper. 
  • Area rugs and mats: Don’t overlook the value of a strategically placed area rug or mat. Not only can they add a bit of extra warmth or pop of color to your overall decor, rugs or mats located in high-traffic areas can help trap dirt and prevent it from being tracked onto the floor. A win-win!  

Enhancing Your Home with Rustic Flooring 

The warmth, charm, and enduring quality of rustic flooring can be a soothing balm to those of us craving a tangible connection to the natural world. The choice to incorporate rustic flooring into your interior design also means that no matter how your tastes change in the years to come, your floors will never look out of date or at odds with whatever decor you choose. So, whether you’re into mid-century modern or intergalactic chic in the future, your rustic floors will always be there to support you in style. 

More Than Meets The Eye 

As we conclude our journey through the world of rustic flooring, it’s clear that this timeless choice is more than just a surface beneath our feet – it’s a statement of style, a testament to our eternal connection with nature, and a nod to the past. Whether you opt for the warmth of wide plank flooring, the inviting charm of distressed finishes, or the natural beauty of stone-look, the skilled flooring professionals at Empire Today can help guide you towards the choice that reflects your unique personality and the ambiance you wish to create. 

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Matching Your Rooms with the Right Types of Flooring https://www.empiretoday.com/blog/matching-your-rooms-with-the-right-types-of-flooring/ Fri, 03 Jan 2020 22:14:13 +0000 https://www.empiretoday.com/blog/?p=20514 Like most things in life, not all flooring is created equal. When considering new floors for your home, it’s important to factor in at least a few key things. Does your room see high traffic, low traffic, or somewhere in between? How much moisture will your flooring come in contact with, and how often?  What […]

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Like most things in life, not all flooring is created equal. When considering new floors for your home, it’s important to factor in at least a few key things. Does your room see high traffic, low traffic, or somewhere in between? How much moisture will your flooring come in contact with, and how often?  What about pets? Do they spend a lot of time on your floors, too? If it all seems like a bit much to keep track of, this blog post can help you determine which flooring may be just right for your next project. Let’s get started!

Kitchen

The kitchen is usually the place that sees the majority of the stains, spills, and messes in your home. It’s also a room where your family gathers to cook, work on school projects, and entertain guests. Instead of worrying about all the foot traffic in your kitchen possibly ruining your floors, choose flooring that’s durable enough for heavy traffic as well as moisture resistant. This would make ceramic or porcelain tile, vinyl tile, vinyl plank, and wood laminate the best options for your kitchen.

Living Room

Your family likely spends lots of time together in the living room, whether for movie nights, the occasional dinner on the couch, entertaining friends, or celebrating the holidays. Solid hardwood, engineered hardwood, wood laminate, and carpet are all excellent flooring options for a living room.

If you have pets, remember to look for flooring that is resistant to damage from their nails. Engineered hardwood, wood laminate, and carpet that won’t snag—plush, frieze, and our hypoallergenic HOME Fresh carpet—are all excellent options for a pet-friendly living room.

Pro tip: It’s recommended to stay away from Berber carpet if you have animals with nails or claws that spend time on your floors. With its looped design, pet nails are likely to get caught and snag on Berber sooner or later.

Bedroom

No matter what day it is, your bedroom is the place you escape to at the end of each day, so making it a comfortable and welcoming area is important. You can go in a few different directions with bedroom flooring—either carpeting the space for a soft feel, or finding the perfect tone of a wood-look floor to match your area rug. The best options for bedroom flooring include solid hardwood, engineered hardwood, wood laminate, and carpet.

Bathroom

Unlike your bedroom or living room, your bathroom is likely to be a moist environment where flooring will continually get exposed to water droplets and puddles from activities like showering or washing the family pet. Plus, the steam from showering and bathing means that your bathroom will have higher levels of humidity, too. The best options for your bathroom include ceramic or porcelain tile, vinyl tile, and vinyl plank. Waterproof laminate can work, too.

Laundry Room

While guests likely don’t visit your laundry room too often, beautiful floors can make this space feel more like a retreat and less like the home of one of your least favorite chores. However, your laundry room is another area where flooring can be exposed to moisture and higher humidity levels. So, the best options for your laundry room include porcelain or ceramic tile, vinyl tile, vinyl plank, and waterproof laminate.

Basement

The most important thing to consider when choosing new floors for your basement is the concrete subfloor, since not all types of flooring can be used on top of solid concrete. This means the best options for your basement are vinyl plank, vinyl tile, engineered hardwood, wood laminate, and carpet.

The flooring you choose for your basement should also be dependent on what you use your basement for. Do you have kids who use it as a daily playroom? Then consider comfy carpet. Do you occasionally entertain guests in your basement bar? Then look into wood laminate or vinyl plank. Does your basement act as a second living room for movie nights and kids’ sleepovers? Then carpet, wood laminate, or vinyl plank may be your best bets. 

Wrapping It All Up

The flooring you choose for your rooms can make or break the entire space, so it’s important to know your options and choose wisely to fit your family’s needs. That’s what we’re here for! To help you with these big decisions. Your Empire Today® flooring professional can guide you through the whole process—making choosing new floors more straightforward, easy, and even fun!

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Family Room Flooring Ideas: What to Consider https://www.empiretoday.com/blog/family-room-flooring-ideas/ Tue, 14 Nov 2017 20:09:31 +0000 https://www.empiretoday.com/blog/?p=17290 What’s the first thing you picture when you hear “family room”? Many of us imagine the entertainment center, comfortable sofas and chairs, and quality time with family and friends. But have you ever thought about how compatible your floors are with your family’s lifestyle? The flooring in your family room can have a huge impact […]

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What’s the first thing you picture when you hear “family room”? Many of us imagine the entertainment center, comfortable sofas and chairs, and quality time with family and friends. But have you ever thought about how compatible your floors are with your family’s lifestyle?

family room flooring ideas

The flooring in your family room can have a huge impact on your family’s overall comfort and quality of life. Here are some things you should consider when choosing family room flooring ideas to help make sure you and your loved ones have the right flooring for everyday life.

Consider Your Lifestyle

The first thing you should consider is your family’s lifestyle. How many children do you have and how young are they? Do you have any pets? These factors can determine what type of flooring you should get and what will be beneficial for your family. Young children like to play on the floor, so something soft and comfy would be ideal for them. Carpet is an easy choice due to its soft comfort and beautiful aesthetic. There are many different types of Carpet to choose from.

Plush and frieze are a great starting point if coziness is priority number one.

Berber Carpet may not be as soft as plush or frieze, but it can be easier to clean and less likely to shed fuzz. Berber’s looped fibers can even help prevent spills from leaving bothersome stains. In general, Berber is a great choice for active family rooms where function is prioritized over style.

Pattern Carpet pairs unique styles with high durability. If you’re looking for a great contemporary look without the hassles of daily maintenance, pattern Carpet would make an excellent addition to your existing family room decor.

Although these carpet choices are great for kids, Berber and pattern aren’t good for pets. Because they have looped fibers, claws can get caught easily. This can easily result in snags, making the carpet look messy and uneven.

What Type of Look Do You Want

Getting flooring to fit your family’s lifestyle is important. However,  you also want to make sure the look fits your taste and the rest of your home’s décor. Wood looks can be achieved without using Hardwood. Instead, people are exploring options like Luxury Vinyl Plank(LVP) and Laminate. Laminate’s surface is scratch-resistant, durable, and can resist stains. It is also less likely to experience color fading due to sunlight, so feel free to open your blinds wide. With Laminate, you get a wood look for a lower price with the durability needed to handle your family’s lifestyle.

How Will You Use the Room

If you’re expecting to host guests or spend most of your days in the family room, you should opt for flooring that has the durability to handle the heavy traffic. Family can be messy and spills are inevitable, so it’s also important that your family room flooring can withstand the occasional “uh-ohs”.

Many vinyl flooring products from Empire have slip, stain, mildew, and scratch resistance, making it a durable option for a busy household. LVP gives you a wood look with cost-efficient durability. This means you don’t have to worry about scratching wood floors. Vinyl also comes in a stone look, helping you give the room a bold and sophisticated style without worrying about damaging your flooring.

Get the Best Family Room Flooring for Your Home

Think about how much time you spend in the family room and you’ll realize how important it is to choose the right flooring for your family’s lifestyle. Whether it’s carpet, hardwood, laminate, vinyl, or tile, you can discuss family room flooring ideas with an experienced Flooring Professional. Schedule your FREE In-Home Estimate today to see how easy it is to get beautiful new family room flooring.

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