Floors are the second largest and broadest expanse of color in a room—the first being walls. They are also the most permanent feature, replaced less easily and less often than wall treatments or even upholstered furniture. Purchase and installation costs are substantial, so it’s important to select floors with an eye to the future.
For many reasons, it’s best to consider investing in the best quality possible for your budget. That doesn’t necessarily mean buying the most expensive flooring. In estimating what you are willing to invest, consider the life span of your floor covering. This will help give you a truer picture of cost and what is truly the most economical for you, your budget, and your lifestyle. And by all means, consider using the services of a professional interior decorator to assist you in this important buying decision.
Modern technology has made flooring more attractive, varied and practical. Such natural materials as wood, marble, stone, slate, clay tile and wool are still high in initial cost, but may not be in the long run because of their durability. Man-made flooring materials such as vinyl and carpets of synthetic fibers come in price ranges able to fit almost any reasonable budget.
