Best Flooring for Cold Climates
The following is a brief overview of the best flooring for cold climates. If you live in a climate with freezing temperatures, snow and ice, you need floors that are comfortable for your feet and resistant to moisture from melting snow. You may also need to consider how well the material can accommodate a radiant heating system if you want to have that upgrade under your floors. The following types are best for colder regions.
Vinyl flooring
This is an excellent type of flooring for cold areas because it is not vulnerable to expanding or contracting in extreme temperature changes. Compared to wood or tile, it warms up fairly quickly, providing a comfortable place to walk on cold feet. Vinyl flooring feels better against your feet because of its embossed surface.
Laminate Floors
These are an excellent choice for flooring in cold climates, especially if you want a product that looks like natural wood. It also has similar insulation properties to vinyl flooring, so you can have a comfortable place for your feet to walk without getting too cold. Applying an insulating layer of foam or cork under the floors will help keep them even warmer.
Best Flooring Options for Dry Climates
Dry air can damage certain types of flooring, so look for a material that can resist warping and fading in dry heat. Explore the qualities of these materials to discover the best flooring for a desert climate.
Wood Flooring
You can invest in a variety of durable wood flooring types for your home in a dry climate. Acclimate the wood to the environment before installation so that it will not warp, cup or shrink. Try to control the relative humidity of the room so that the wood does not get too hot or too dry. You should also close the curtains to prevent strong sunlight from discoloring your panels on very sunny days.
Vinyl Flooring
Vinyl flooring is a durable material that can adapt to any climate, especially one with dry air. Like engineered wood, this material features multiple layers for improved insulation and durability. You can get the most out of this flooring material by sealing the seams between panels, especially if your subfloor is a concrete slab. Vinyl can fade in extreme sunlight, so close the curtains when sunlight is strong.
Follow these recommendations in the type of weather described above and you will reap great benefits. If you have any questions, please contact us and we will give you the best advice on the type of flooring you need for the area with the climate characteristic of the area where you live.