11 Types of Flooring That Will Upgrade Your Home Instantly – A Definitive Guide to Different Types of Flooring Options

As a local area expert in the UK property market, I’m delighted to provide guidance on flooring choices for your clients, especially those looking to maximise their home’s resale value in the coming years. This comprehensive guide will serve as an excellent resource to help them make informed decisions.

Remember, the quality of both materials and installation significantly impacts the return on investment. I always recommend working with trusted, local installers. I maintain a list of reputable professionals in our area and would be happy to share their contact information with your clients.

11 Types of Flooring Materials to Consider for Your Home

1. Hardwood Flooring

Classic and durable, hardwood floors offer unparalleled warmth, elegance, and character. They are the ‘real thing’ and their authentic beauty is unmatched. Common wood types include oak, maple, cherry, and walnut, all of which can be further customised with patterned layouts and various finishes. Installation typically involves preparing the subfloor, laying underlayment, and then nailing or gluing the planks before sanding and sealing.

Hardwood Flooring Pros:

Beautiful Appearance: Adds warmth, elegance, and timeless character to any room.
Variety: Available in a wide range of wood species, colours, and finishes.
Durable & Long-lasting: Can withstand heavy foot traffic and last for decades, even lifetimes, with proper care.
Increases Resale Value: A highly sought-after feature that significantly boosts a home’s market appeal and value.
Easy to Maintain: Simple to clean with regular sweeping/vacuuming and occasional damp mopping.
Allergen-Free: Doesn’t trap dust, pollen, or pet dander like carpet.
Can be Refinished: Can be sanded down and re-sealed multiple times to restore its appearance, extending its lifespan.

Hardwood Flooring Cons:

Expensive: Generally one of the most costly options compared to laminate or vinyl.
Sensitive to Moisture: Susceptible to warping, swelling, or discolouration from water damage, making it generally unsuitable for very wet areas like bathrooms (unless specifically waterproof).
Can be Scratched or Dented: Though often repairable, it can show signs of wear from sharp objects, pets, or heavy furniture.
Noisy: Can create more noise from footsteps compared to softer flooring.
Refinishing Process: While a benefit, the process is time-consuming, costly, and often requires homeowners to vacate the area during sanding and sealing.

2. Engineered Wood

Engineered wood flooring is a popular alternative to solid hardwood, offering a similar aesthetic with enhanced stability. It’s constructed from multiple layers: a thin top layer of real hardwood veneer bonded to a core of plywood or high-density fibreboard. Installation often involves clicking or gluing the boards, making it potentially easier than solid hardwood.

Engineered Wood Pros:

More Moisture Resistant: Less prone to warping and expansion/contraction than solid hardwood, making it suitable for a wider range of environments, including kitchens and basements.
Less Prone to Scratches/Dents: While still possible, the multi-layered construction can offer slightly more resistance than some solid hardwoods.
Versatile Installation: Can be installed in various environments and often used with underfloor heating, which solid wood sometimes struggles with.
Easier Installation: Often features click-lock systems, making it more DIY-friendly or quicker for professionals.
Attractive: Provides the authentic look and feel of real wood.
Less Expensive: Generally more affordable than solid hardwood.
Hypoallergenic: Similar to solid hardwood, it doesn’t trap allergens.

Engineered Wood Cons:

Limited Refinishing Capabilities: The thin veneer layer means it can only be sanded and refinished a limited number of times, if at all, unlike solid hardwood.
Shorter Lifespan: While durable, its overall lifespan is typically shorter than solid wood.
Quality Variation: The quality can vary significantly between manufacturers, impacting durability and appearance; always check product reviews.
Still Susceptible to Prolonged Moisture: While more resistant than solid wood, it can still be damaged by prolonged moisture exposure or flooding.

3. Laminate Flooring

Laminate flooring is a synthetic product designed to mimic the look of natural materials such as hardwood, tile, or stone. It’s constructed from several layers fused together through a lamination process, with a photographic image layer providing the realistic appearance. Installation typically involves a floating system where planks click together, often with an underlayment.

Laminate Flooring Pros:

Cost-Effective: Significantly more affordable than natural materials like hardwood or stone.
Versatile Designs: Offers a wide range of realistic designs mimicking wood, stone, and tile.
Easily Installed: Often features click-lock systems, making it a popular DIY choice.
Resistant: Good resistance to scratches, stains, and fading, especially with higher AC wear ratings.
Hypoallergenic: Easy to keep clean and doesn’t trap allergens.
Low Maintenance: Simple to clean with regular sweeping/vacuuming.

Laminate Flooring Cons:

Cannot be Refinished or Easily Repaired: Damage often requires replacement of the affected planks.
Susceptible to Water Damage: Can swell, warp, or delaminate if exposed to excessive moisture, especially at seams (unless it’s a specific “waterproof” laminate).
Not as Authentic: While realistic, it lacks the unique character and warmth of natural materials.
Sound and Feel: Can sound hollow or plastic-like underfoot compared to real wood, and may feel harder.
Quality Variation: Like engineered wood, quality varies greatly by manufacturer, impacting durability and lifespan.

4. Vinyl Flooring

Vinyl flooring is made from synthetic materials, primarily PVC, and is known for its durability, affordability, and water resistance. It comes in sheets (vinyl sheet) or planks/tiles (Luxury Vinyl Plank/Tile – LVP/LVT). Installation methods include peel-and-stick, floating (click-lock), or glue-down. LVP/LVT is particularly popular in the UK due to its realistic designs and waterproof properties.

Vinyl Flooring Pros:

Durable: Highly resistant to wear and tear, making it ideal for busy households.
Water-Resistant or Waterproof: Excellent choice for kitchens, bathrooms, utility rooms, and basements.
Affordable: Generally less expensive than hardwood, engineered wood, or natural stone.
Easy to Maintain: Simple to clean with regular sweeping and damp mopping.
Comfortable to Walk On: Softer and warmer underfoot than tile or stone.
Variety of Styles: Available in countless designs mimicking wood, stone, and abstract patterns.

Vinyl Flooring Cons:

Prone to Gouges, Cuts, and Tears: Can be damaged by sharp objects or dragging heavy furniture.
Susceptible to Fading: Can fade over time with prolonged exposure to direct sunlight.
Limited Repair Options: Significant damage often requires replacing individual planks/tiles or sections of sheet.
Not as Luxurious: While realistic, it may not offer the same perceived luxury or resale value as natural materials to some buyers.
Subfloor Must be Perfect: Requires a perfectly level, smooth, and flat subfloor for optimal installation and appearance.
Not Eco-friendly: Primarily made from plastics, making it less environmentally friendly to produce and dispose of (though some manufacturers are improving sustainability).

5. Tile Flooring

Ceramic and porcelain tiles are enduringly popular flooring options due to their supreme durability, water resistance, and easy maintenance. Porcelain tiles are denser and less porous than ceramic, making them even more durable and ideal for high-moisture or high-traffic areas. They offer an extensive range of sizes, shapes, colours, and patterns.

Tile Flooring Pros:

Highly Durable: Extremely tough and resistant to scratches, dents, and heavy foot traffic.
Water-Resistant: Excellent for wet environments like kitchens, bathrooms, and utility rooms.
Easy Maintenance: Simple to clean and hygienic; resistant to stains.
Variety of Styles: Vast array of colours, patterns, sizes, and finishes (matte, glossy, textured).
Hypoallergenic: Does not harbour dust or allergens.
Long-lasting: Can last for many decades with proper installation and care.

Tile Flooring Cons:

Not Comfortable: Hard and cold underfoot, which can be tiring for extended standing.
Requires Skill to Install: Professional installation is often recommended due to the precision and tools required.
Susceptible to Cracking: Can crack if heavy objects are dropped or if the subfloor is not perfectly stable.
Grout Maintenance: Grout lines can collect dirt and require periodic cleaning and sealing.
Slippery When Wet: Some finishes can be very slippery when wet; look for anti-slip ratings.
High Cost: Can be expensive, especially for porcelain or complex installations.

6. Stone Flooring

Natural stone flooring, including marble, granite, slate, travertine, and limestone, offers a truly luxurious and timeless aesthetic. Each stone slab is unique, providing a distinct and elegant look. Installation involves careful preparation, specialised mortars, grouting, and often sealing and polishing.

Stone Flooring Pros:

Durable: Extremely hard-wearing and long-lasting.
Unique Beauty: Each piece is unique, offering a distinct and sophisticated natural aesthetic.
Variety: Wide range of stone types, colours, and finishes.
Longevity: Can last for centuries with proper care.
Low Maintenance: Generally easy to clean once sealed.
Natural Cooling Effect: Can help keep rooms cooler in warmer climates or seasons.

Stone Flooring Cons:

Expensive: One of the most costly flooring options to purchase and install.
Porous: Most natural stones are porous and require proper sealing to prevent staining and water absorption.
Not Comfortable: Very hard and cold underfoot; can be uncomfortable for prolonged standing.
Slippery When Wet: Many polished stone surfaces are very slippery when wet; textured finishes are better for wet areas.
Requires Periodic Maintenance: Needs regular sealing and specific cleaning products.
Susceptible to Scratching, Chipping, or Cracking: While durable, it can be damaged by heavy impacts.

7. Linoleum Flooring

Often confused with vinyl, linoleum is a distinct, eco-friendly flooring made from natural materials such as linseed oil, wood flour, cork dust, and natural resins, pressed onto a jute or canvas backing. It’s highly regarded for its durability and environmental credentials.

Linoleum Flooring Pros:

Environmentally Friendly: Made from renewable natural materials and biodegradable.
Durable: Can be very long-lasting with proper care.
Water-Resistant: Good resistance to moisture, especially in sheet form with sealed seams.
Comfortable: Softer and more resilient underfoot than many hard surfaces, and can feel warmer.
Variety of Colours and Patterns: Available in a wide range of vibrant, through-body colours.
Antimicrobial Properties: Naturally inhibits the growth of bacteria.
Easy to Maintain: Simple to clean.

Linoleum Flooring Cons:

Can be Damaged: Susceptible to damage from sharp objects, heavy furniture, and harsh cleaning agents.
Prone to Staining: Can stain from certain chemicals or highly pigmented spills if not cleaned quickly or if the surface isn’t maintained.
May Require Sealing: Some types benefit from periodic sealing for enhanced durability and stain resistance.
“Ambering”: Lighter colours can yellow over time, especially in areas with less light exposure.
Installation: Sheet linoleum can be tricky to install for DIYers, often requiring professional adhesive installation.

8. Carpet

Wall-to-wall carpeting remains a popular choice in UK homes, particularly for bedrooms, hallways, and playrooms. It offers a unique combination of comfort, warmth, and noise reduction. Professional installation is typically recommended.

Carpet Pros:

Comfortable: Soft and luxurious underfoot, providing a cosy feel.
Provides Warmth: Excellent insulator, helping to retain heat and reduce energy bills.
Noise Reduction: Absorbs sound, making rooms quieter and reducing sound transmission between floors.
Soft: Safer for falls, making it ideal for children’s rooms or areas where comfort is prioritised.
Non-Slip Surface: Offers good traction, reducing the risk of slips.
Versatile: Wide range of colours, patterns, textures, and pile types.
Cost-Effective: Often one of the more affordable flooring options to purchase and install.

Carpet Cons:

Allergen Retention: Traps dust, pollen, pet dander, and other allergens, requiring frequent and thorough cleaning.
Hard to Clean Stains: Spills and stains can be difficult to remove and may require professional cleaning.
Wear and Tear: High-traffic areas can show wear, matting, or crushing over time.
Moisture Retention: Can absorb moisture, leading to mould or mildew if not dried quickly and thoroughly.
Limited Lifespan: Generally has a shorter lifespan than hard surface flooring, typically needing replacement every 7-15 years depending on quality and traffic.
Not Ideal for Wet Areas: Completely unsuitable for kitchens, bathrooms, or other high-moisture zones.

9. Concrete Flooring

Historically associated with industrial and commercial settings, polished and stained concrete floors have gained popularity in residential properties, particularly in modern and minimalist designs. Concrete is poured, levelled, and then finished with polishing, staining, or sealing.

Concrete Flooring Pros:

Extremely Durable: Unmatched durability, capable of withstanding heavy traffic and impacts.
Low Maintenance: Easy to clean with regular sweeping and occasional damp mopping.
Versatile: Can be stained, polished, painted, or stamped to achieve a variety of aesthetic effects.
Energy Efficient: Excellent thermal mass, making it ideal for use with underfloor heating systems.
Long-lasting: Can last for a very long time with minimal maintenance.
Affordable: Can be very cost-effective if an existing concrete slab can be used.

Concrete Flooring Cons:

Hardness: Very hard underfoot, which can be uncomfortable for prolonged standing and unforgiving for dropped items.
Cold: Can be cold to the touch unless paired with underfloor heating.
Labour-Intensive Installation: Requires skilled professionals for pouring, levelling, and finishing, especially for decorative effects.
Susceptible to Cracking: While durable, it can develop cracks over time, especially if the sub-base is unstable (though these can often be filled).
Can Stain: Requires sealing to prevent staining from spills.
Specific Aesthetic: May not suit all interior design styles or tastes.

10. Cork Flooring

Cork flooring, made from the bark of cork oak trees, is an increasingly popular sustainable and eco-friendly option. It’s typically manufactured as tiles or planks with an interlocking tongue-and-groove system.

Cork Flooring Pros:

Comfortable: Soft, resilient, and springy underfoot, reducing fatigue and providing cushioning.
Insulative Properties: Excellent thermal and acoustic insulation, helping to retain warmth and dampen sound.
Environmentally-Friendly: Made from a renewable resource (bark is harvested without cutting down the tree).
Hypoallergenic: Naturally resistant to mould, mildew, and pests, and doesn’t trap allergens.
Variety of Styles: Available in various colours, patterns, and textures.
Good for Pets: Softer surface can be kinder to pet joints, and it’s quieter than hard floors.

Cork Flooring Cons:

Vulnerable to Moisture: Can swell, warp, or discolour if exposed to excessive standing water, requiring careful sealing and maintenance, particularly in bathrooms or kitchens.
Not as Durable as Some: Can be susceptible to scratches, dents from heavy furniture, and gouges from sharp objects or pet claws.
Fades Over Time: Can fade or discolour when exposed to prolonged direct sunlight.
Requires Regular Maintenance and Sealing: Needs periodic re-sealing to maintain its water resistance and protect its surface.
More Expensive: Generally more costly than vinyl or laminate.

11. Rubber Flooring

Primarily found in commercial and gym settings, rubber flooring is also a versatile option for various residential areas, especially playrooms, utility rooms, and home gyms. It’s made from synthetic or natural rubber and comes in large rolls or interlocking tiles.

Rubber Flooring Pros:

Durable: Extremely tough and resilient, capable of withstanding heavy impacts and traffic.
Comfortable: Provides excellent cushioning, making it comfortable for standing, walking, and playing.
Reduces Noise: Excellent sound absorption properties.
Water-Resistant: Highly resistant to moisture, making it suitable for wet areas.
Slip-Resistant: Offers good traction, even when wet.
Low Maintenance: Easy to clean with basic sweeping and damp mopping.
Eco-Friendly (for natural rubber): Natural rubber is a renewable resource.

Rubber Flooring Cons:

More Expensive: Generally more costly than vinyl or laminate.
Fewer Design Options: Limited in terms of mimicking natural wood or stone aesthetics, offering more utilitarian or bold solid colours.
Vulnerable to Staining: Can be stained by oil-based or acidic liquids.
Shows Indentations: Heavy furniture or equipment can leave permanent indentations.
Odour: New rubber flooring can emit a strong rubbery odour for a period after installation.

Choosing the Best Flooring for Resale Value in the UK

When guiding your clients, especially those looking to sell in a few years, it’s crucial to align their flooring choices with current UK market preferences and the specific style of their home.

Key considerations for increasing resale value in the UK:

Hardwood and Engineered Wood: These remain the top choices for increasing perceived value and buyer appeal. They offer timeless elegance and durability that resonates strongly with UK buyers. Lighter, natural wood tones and wider planks are particularly on-trend. Refinished wood floors can add 3-5% to property value.
Luxury Vinyl Tile (LVT): LVT is a strong contender for its excellent balance of aesthetics, durability, and water resistance. It’s increasingly popular for its realistic wood and stone effects, making it suitable for any room, including kitchens and bathrooms, where buyers appreciate a high-quality finish without the maintenance concerns of real wood. LVT can add 4-6% to home value.
Tile Flooring (Porcelain/Ceramic): Especially in bathrooms, kitchens, and utility rooms, high-quality porcelain or ceramic tiles are highly valued for their durability, water resistance, and low maintenance. Bold patterned tiles are also a current trend that can add character. Tile can add 4-6% to home value.
Laminate Flooring: While more budget-friendly, modern laminate with high-definition wood looks and embossed textures can be a good option for mid-range homes, particularly in living rooms and bedrooms. It can add 3-5% to value.
Carpet: While some hard surfaces are preferred throughout, new, neutral, good-quality carpet in bedrooms can still be appealing for comfort and warmth, potentially adding 2-4% value. Avoid outdated colours or worn carpet if selling.
Trends for 2024/2025 in the UK:
- Herringbone and Chevron Patterns: These classic parquet patterns are making a strong comeback, particularly in engineered wood and LVT, adding sophistication.
- Natural Tones and Materials: Light oak, natural wood tones, and earthy palettes are highly sought after, creating a warm and authentic feel.
- Wide Plank Designs: Whether in wood or vinyl, wider planks create a more expansive and luxurious look.
- Matte Finishes: A sleek and sophisticated alternative to glossy floors, enhancing the natural beauty of the material.
- Sustainable Options: Growing demand for eco-friendly materials like bamboo, cork, and linoleum, as well as recycled content in other flooring types.
- Underfloor Heating Compatibility: Increasingly, buyers look for flooring suitable for underfloor heating, such as engineered wood and LVT.

Critical Advice for Clients:

Balance Aesthetics and Practicality: While trends are important, the flooring must suit their lifestyle during the period they live in the home.
Subfloor Preparation: Emphasise that for any flooring, especially vinyl and tile, proper subfloor preparation is paramount for longevity and a flawless finish. Poor subfloor work can negate the benefits of expensive materials.
Quality of Installation: Reiterate that even the best materials will underperform if not installed correctly. This is where your recommended local installers come in.
Read Reviews: Advise clients to research specific brands and products, as quality varies significantly within each flooring type.

By providing this comprehensive, locally-relevant advice, you’ll establish yourself as an invaluable resource, helping your clients make smart renovation choices that pay off when it’s time to sell.

I highly recommend bookmarking this information and sharing it with your clients. For further insights into real estate trends and continuing education courses, please refer them to valuable resources like the Colibri Real Estate blog.