Flooring Options for the DIYer

My husband and I are researching options to transform our screened in porch into an enclosed playroom for our little girl. A recent sale on flooring at our local home improvement store made me wonder which type of flooring would give us the best value.

Consumer Reports has a feature in the August 2009 issue detailing types of flooring and what you get for the price. Here are six:

Solid wood/Bamboo

• Pros: It’s made from a renewable resource, which makes it a popular choice. It can be sanded and refinished multiple times.
• Cons: Shouldn’t be used in bathrooms or other places where moisture is present. The wood can discolor and tends to dent and show wear quickly.
• Cost: $7-$12 per sq. ft.

Engineered wood

• Pros: Easy to install and may be refinished if needed.
• Cons: Damaged easily.
• Cost: $5 to $10 per sq. ft.

Plastic laminate

• Pros: It’s tough and the finish is often better than some wood.
• Cons: Shouldn’t be used for bathrooms; can’t be refinished.
• Cost: $4 to $8 per sq. ft.

Vinyl

• Pros: Easy to install. Most cost efficient. Best for bathrooms and budget kitchen remodels.
• Cons: It looks like vinyl, which isn’t popular or pretty.
• Cost: $3 to $7 per sq. ft.

Linoleum

• Pros: A natural, resilient material. Resists moisture, dents and fading.
• Cons: Not as wear and scratch resistent. Vinyl offers more choices for less.
• Cost: $4 to $9 per sq. ft.

Ceramic tile

• Pros: Most popular for durability and looks.
• Cons: Hard to install, can break and grout can stain.
• Cost: $8 to $15 per sq. ft.

The most economic flooring would be to use or refurbish what you have. One blogger painted the bare floors of her children’s room after removing the dirty carpet.