Sleek bamboo flooring in a Fairfax Station remodel by FineCraft Contractors. Photo: Kaan Ozturk
Below, FineCraft Contractors offers a rundown of current popular options.
HARDWOOD
PROS—Versatile, great look, easy maintenance, high resale value.
CONS—Loud to walk on, cold in winter.
Cost—$3 to $12 a square foot
LAMINATE
PROS—Can look like real wood or tile, but is scratch-resistant, durable, easy to clean and great for pets and high-traffic areas.
CONS—If it gets damaged, it can’t be refinished.
Cost—50 cents to $3 per square foot
VINYL
PROS—Quiet and easy on your feet. A great option for laundry rooms as it can reduce the noise from the washer and dryer.
CONS—Tends to dent and tear easily.
Cost—$1 to $5 per square foot
PROS—Durability, scratch- and water-resistance. Available in a variety of sizes and materials. Easy to clean.
CONS—Very loud to walk on and cold in the winter. When tile cracks, it can be difficult to repair.
Cost—$1 to $20 per square foot