Complete Flooring Guide

Choosing the right flooring is one of the most important decisions you'll make during a home renovation. Your floors see more foot traffic than almost any other surface in your home, and they set the tone for every room. But with so many options available, how do you make the right choice?

In this guide, we'll break down the three most popular flooring options — hardwood, luxury vinyl plank, and laminate — so you can make an informed decision for your home and lifestyle.

Hardwood Flooring

There's a reason hardwood floors have been a coveted feature in homes for centuries. Nothing quite matches the warmth, character, and timeless beauty of natural wood. Each plank is unique, with its own grain patterns and natural variations that add character to your space.

Pros of Hardwood

• Timeless appeal: Never goes out of style and can increase your home's resale value
• Durability: Can last 100+ years with proper care
• Refinishable: Can be sanded and refinished multiple times to remove scratches and refresh the look
• Natural beauty: Unique grain patterns in every plank
• Improves air quality: No allergens trapped in fibers

Cons of Hardwood

• Higher cost: Premium material and installation costs
• Susceptible to moisture: Not ideal for bathrooms or basements
• Can scratch: Pets and heavy furniture can leave marks
• Requires maintenance: Periodic refinishing and careful cleaning

Best for: Living rooms, dining rooms, bedrooms, and areas where you want maximum home value impact.

Cost: $8-14 per square foot installed

Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP)

Luxury vinyl plank has revolutionized the flooring industry, offering the look of hardwood at a fraction of the cost with added durability. Modern LVP is remarkably realistic, with textured surfaces that mimic the feel of real wood grain.

Pros of Luxury Vinyl

• 100% waterproof: Perfect for Alaska's climate and moisture-prone areas
• Durable: Resists scratches, dents, and everyday wear
• Comfortable: Softer underfoot than hardwood or tile
• Easy installation: Click-lock system can be installed over existing floors
• Low maintenance: Simple sweeping and occasional mopping
• Affordable: Quality appearance at mid-range prices

Cons of Luxury Vinyl

• Not refinishable: Must be replaced when worn (15-25 years lifespan)
• Can fade: Direct sunlight may cause discoloration over time
• Environmental concerns: PVC-based materials are not biodegradable
• Less added value: Doesn't increase home value like hardwood

Best for: Kitchens, bathrooms, basements, high-traffic areas, and homes with pets or children.

Cost: $5-9 per square foot installed

Laminate Flooring

Laminate offers an affordable alternative that mimics the look of wood (and sometimes stone) at a budget-friendly price. It's made from composite wood pressed together at high temperatures, with a photographic layer that creates the visual appearance.

Pros of Laminate

• Budget-friendly: Most affordable realistic wood-look option
• Durable: Scratch-resistant surface handles pets and kids well
• Easy installation: DIY-friendly click-lock system
• Variety: Available in countless colors and styles
• Low maintenance: No special cleaning products required

Cons of Laminate

• Not waterproof: Can warp with moisture exposure
• Less realistic: While improved, still doesn't match hardwood's authenticity
• Cannot be refinished: Once worn, needs complete replacement
• Can feel hollow: Less substantial underfoot than hardwood
• Environmental issues: Made from composite wood with adhesives

Best for: Bedrooms, offices, rental properties, and budget-conscious renovations.

Cost: $4-7 per square foot installed

Flooring for Alaska's Climate

Alaska's climate presents unique considerations for flooring decisions. The extreme temperature changes between seasons, moisture issues, and specific subfloor conditions all play a role in choosing the right floor.

Humidity is key: Alaska's dry winter months can cause hardwood to shrink and gap, while summer humidity can cause expansion. If you love hardwood, consider engineered hardwood, which is more stable in humidity fluctuations.

Waterproof wins: For basements and moisture-prone areas, luxury vinyl plank is often the best choice. It handles temperature and humidity changes without warping or damage.

Subfloor matters: Many Alaska homes have concrete slabs or older subfloors that need preparation. Our team assesses each home individually to recommend the best solution for your specific conditions.

Making Your Decision

The "best" flooring ultimately depends on your specific situation. Consider these factors:

• Budget: What can you realistically invest?
• Room function: Kitchens and bathrooms need waterproof options
• Lifestyle: Pets, kids, and entertaining affect durability needs
• Resale plans: Hardwood offers the best return on investment
• Aesthetic goals: What look are you trying to achieve?