Vinyl and linoleum flooring

Unless you have real tiles in your bathroom and kitchen, you probably have vinyl, installed either in room-sized sheets or small squares. Vinyl is the modern, synthetic equivalent to old-style linoleum, which is making a come-back because it is now considered eco-friendly.

Wood floor alternatives

Bamboo flooring costs less than and duplicates the look of hardwood flooring - and it's more eco-friendly.  (Image courtesy of James Moore)
Consumers have many choices beyond traditional hardwood floors, including wood laminate and renewable sources such as bamboo, cork and even leather. Some alternatives look virtually the same as hardwoods.

Glossary: Flooring

A collection of definitions and terms related to purchasing, installing and maintaining flooring from backing to wear layer.

Tile

Tile can be used as accent pieces, like this kitchen backsplash, or for main features, such as floors and walls.(Photo courtesy of Paolo Sacca)
Whether you want to replace a laminate floor, backsplash, shower stall or countertops, ceramic tile is a durable, easy-to-clean option that can add value to your home. Both ceramic and stone tiles are nearly maintenance free, though grout will need occasional resealing.

Carpet Installer

Carpet and rugs

Wood or tile floors are good in some rooms, but most homeowners prefer to install carpeting in living rooms and family rooms, especially when children are small. Here are tips on the types of carpeting available and how to pick the right one for your home.

For a home flooring option, consider carpet tiles

More and more consumers are filling their home flooring needs with carpet tiles instead of more traditional options. Find out if tiles are right for you and if cleaning is the same as for standard carpet.

Carpet industry rolling out the green carpet

Carpet manufacturers are starting to make more efficient products due to consumer demand.

Carpet manufacturers and installers have taken measures to reduce carpet's negative impact on the environment through improved production and installation techniques and an emphasis on reclaiming and recycling old carpet.

4 options for cleaning your carpet professionally

Use Angie's List to help you find a thorough carpet cleaner in your area.  (Photo courtesy of Delene Ostler)

As with any investment, keeping your carpet looking its best takes some work. Cleaning spills, vacuuming often and hiring a professional carpet cleaner are ways to keep your carpet looking its best.

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Hardwood Floor Installation

Hardwood flooring

The owner of this Colorado home chose to have red oak installed in several rooms in his house, including the living room. (Photo courtesy of Al Allen)
There are few home improvement choices that add as much character and warmth – not to mention resale value – as hardwood flooring. But before you install or repair hardwood flooring it’s important to know both its advantages and disadvantages.

Choosing the right hardwood flooring for your home

Bamboo flooring can add panache to your dining room. (Photo courtesy of Angie’s List member John M. of Virginian Beach, Va.)

Hardwood flooring adds an extra touch of beauty to any home, but not all woods are suited for all homes. Find out which types of flooring can work best for the rooms of your house.

What to expect when refinishing hardwood floors

If wanting to refinish your wood floors, find an expert who can do the job right. (Photo courtesy of Angie’s List member Nick K. of Dearborn, Mich.)

Knowing what to expect before you begin having your hardwood floors refinished depends on a variety of factors. Chief among these are understanding the process and working closely with your contractor.

When should you refinish hardwood floors?

Floor refinishing is a process that takes planning and preparation. Know what to expect before beginning the process in your home. (Photo courtesy of Angie’s List member Gigel B. of Chicago)

At first glance, the answer seems simple: Refinish wood floors when they need it. That kind of thinking just barely scratches the surface because you need to take plenty of considerations into account first.

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Epoxy Floor Painting

Cement flooring options

Epoxy paint is an excellent choice for garage floors because it's easier to keep clean.
When a basement is remodeled as living quarters, the most common floor covering is carpeting, but there are other options worth considering. Modern epoxy paints can provide a strikingly colorful look with a smooth-as-glass finish easy to keep clean. Interlocking tiles are another good option. Both are possible do-it-yourself projects.

7 tips for rubber or epoxy flooring

Epoxy flooring comes in a variety of colors to match any room's decor. (Photo courtesy of Angie's List member Bob S. of New Palestine, Ind.)

Are you thinking about updating the flooring in your basement or garage? Consider rubber and epoxy flooring options, which can be both attractive and functional.

8 tips to decide whether to repair or replace your appliance

Is it more economical to replace or repair the fridge or washing machine? The right answer depends on a variety of factors. Eight questions to determine whether to replace or repair an appliance.

Game Room Ideas, Renovate basement, spare bedroom

Consider your home's layout to decide if an existing space can be converted into a game room or if you'll need to add on.

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