CERAMIC TILE
Tile is one of the most durable options available. It will take a hit from nearly anything you drop on it. Should the tile get scratched, it can easily be buffed out. Tile is also highly stain resistant and still fairly inexpensive at $2-9 a square foot. Tile is also advantageous from a design perspective, as there is a nearly unlimited number of options available for creating eye-catching designs. Naturally, the same caution about those designs mentioned with linoleum applies here. Additionally, ceramic’s strengths are also often weaknesses in other ways. That same durability can lead to breaking anything you drop on it. And if the tile does chip, it can be very difficult to do a quality repair job on your own. Tile can be harder on your feet as well, making you want to rush back to those carpeted areas. Dirt also tends to collect in the grout lines, making it difficult to clean.
VINYL
Vinyl is commonly found in many kitchens and bathrooms in middle-class neighborhoods across the country. It is easy to clean if done quickly and is also the cheapest option available at $1-7 a square foot. If comfort is an issue, this is the most comfortable option other than carpet. Unfortunately, that affordability comes at the price of durability and it is easily scratched, with repairs generally requiring a professional to come in and replace whole sections of the floor. It can also be susceptible to water damage if it is laid down in tile form as liquids will find their way between the seams.
HARDWOOD
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