Practical, pretty entrances
Durable flooring keeps doorways tidy
We all know the importance of a good first impression, right? Well, if your new house is going to make a big first impression, why not start with what guests step on when they enter?
The entranceway floor is the multitasker of your home. It takes a lot of abuse, but it also has to look good.
“The entrance should be a material that isn’t going to absorb water — therefore, not carpet, laminate or hardwood,” says Paul Di Marcello of Vinton Centre Carpets Ltd. “Tiles and vinyl products are popular choices.”
Here are some options to consider when choosing material for an entranceway floor:
CERAMIC OR PORCE LAIN TILE
Advantages: Tile is durable, along with being attractive. It resists scratches and staining, and won’t fade in sunlight. Installed properly, it can last a lifetime.
Professional installation is recommended. Maintenance: Tile is easy to clean — a damp mop is usually sufficient. Price: There is a wide range in price for tile, reflecting the variety of styles and patterns, from builder grade to exotic. Most run from $8 per square foot to $16 per sq. ft., including installation.
“In the case of tiles, the difference in price is strictly a matter of esthetics, not durability,” says Di Marcello.
LINOLEUM
Advantages: Linoleum is available in a wide variety of colours and patterns. It lends an authentic feel as a flooring choice for heritage houses, and can bring a funky vibe to new construction.
Made with recycled and rapidly renewable natural products, linoleum is one of the more environmentally friendly flooring choices. It is durable and long-lasting when installed and maintained properly.
Professional installation is recommended. Maintenance: Linoleum requires a bit more care than vinyl products, and should be cleaned with low-pH cleaners. Price: Linoleum runs about $2-$3/sq. ft., not including installation.
LUXURY VINYL
Advantages: Luxury vinyl — sold as tiles and planks — is a hot trend in flooring. With a wide range of colours and patterns, it can re-create the look of wood or stone at a fraction of the price.
It is also warmer and softer underfoot than most other hard floors.
Another huge advantage of luxury vinyl is its ease of installation. It is well within the capability of most do-ityourselfers.
“If you know how to operate a knife, you’re good to go,” says Di Marcello. Maintenance: Luxury vinyl is easy to clean and impermeable to water, making it a great choice for the entryway. A broom or a wet mop is all you need. Price: There is a wide range of price for vinyl products, but most range from $2-$7/sq. ft.