If you have furry friends and family members running all over your home, it can be difficult to select a flooring material that strikes a balance between aesthetics and practicality. Unfortunately, some types of floors can become easily damaged with pets around, especially if they are frequently going in between the yard and the house. Luckily, there are some great looking options that are easy to maintain so that you and your 4-legged friends can be happy at home. Let’s take a look at some of the best flooring options for pet owners.
Luxury vinyl tile (LVT) and luxury vinyl plank (LVP) have become go-to options for pet-friendly homes, and it’s easy to see why. These floors offer a winning combination of durability, comfort, and ease of maintenance, all while closely mimicking the look of more expensive flooring types such as hardwood or stone. The layered construction of LVT/LVP includes a wear layer that protects the design layer, making it resistant to scratches from pet claws.
Most LVT and LVP products are waterproof, which is particularly beneficial for households with pets prone to accidents or spills. These floors are softer underfoot compared to materials like tile or hardwood, making them more comfortable for pets to walk and lie on, especially for older animals with joint issues. In terms of maintenance, LVT/LVP floors are low maintenance and can be easily cleaned with a simple mop or vacuum, keeping your home free of pet hair and dirt.
Considerations:
Hardwood flooring, though beautiful and timeless, can be a double-edged sword for pet owners. On one hand, hardwood adds warmth, elegance, and long-lasting value to a home. Certain tree/wood species are harder and more resistant to scratches, making them more suitable for homes with pets. Pre-finished hardwood with a durable surface finish, such as aluminum oxide, can provide an additional layer of protection against claw marks and spills.
One of the biggest advantages of hardwood flooring is that it can be sanded and refinished multiple times over its lifetime, allowing you to repair scratches and wear as needed. However, hardwood floors are not impervious to damage, especially in high-traffic areas or when exposed to moisture. Pet accidents, water spills, and prolonged moisture exposure can cause hardwood to warp or stain, especially if not cleaned up promptly. Softwood species like pine and fir are even more vulnerable to scratching, so they should generally be avoided in homes with active pets.
Considerations:
Tile flooring, particularly ceramic and porcelain, is one of the most durable and pet-friendly options available. Known for its hardness and resistance to scratches, tile can easily withstand the impact of claws without showing signs of damage. Tile is also completely waterproof, making it ideal for homes where pet accidents, spilled water bowls, or muddy paws are common occurrences. Its easy-to-clean surface makes maintaining tile floors simple, requiring only regular sweeping or mopping to keep them free of dirt, pet hair, and messes. For pet owners, tile offers a durable, low-maintenance solution that can last for decades.
Glossy tiles can become slippery, especially when wet, which could be a concern for older pets or those with mobility issues. To counteract this, consider using area rugs or pet beds to provide softer spots for pets to rest. Choosing textured or matte tile finishes can also help provide more grip for pets, reducing the risk of slipping.
Considerations:
Laminate flooring is another pet-friendly option that mimics the appearance of hardwood at a fraction of the cost. Made from multiple layers of synthetic materials, laminate is known for its durability and scratch resistance, particularly when compared to hardwood. Many laminate products come with a tough wear layer that protects the photographic image beneath, making them less prone to scratches from pet claws. Laminate is also easy to clean and maintain, making it a practical choice for busy pet owners. Spills and accidents can usually be wiped up without causing damage, provided they are cleaned promptly.
While laminate flooring holds up well against scratches, it is not fully waterproof. Prolonged exposure to moisture can cause the boards to swell or warp, so it’s important to clean up spills and pet accidents quickly. This material tends to be a harder surface, which may be uncomfortable for pets, especially older animals or those with joint pain. It can also be slippery, especially if it has a smooth finish, so consider choosing a textured laminate for better traction.
Considerations:
Bamboo is a sustainable, eco-friendly flooring option that’s also well-suited to homes with pets. Though technically a type of grass, bamboo is often harder than many traditional hardwoods, particularly when it comes to strand-woven bamboo. This type of bamboo is highly durable and resistant to scratches, making it a practical choice for pet owners who want the look of hardwood without the worry of claw marks. Bamboo flooring is also relatively water-resistant, especially when compared to traditional hardwood, and can handle minor spills and pet accidents without suffering significant damage.
The quality of bamboo flooring can vary widely, so it’s important to choose high-quality, strand-woven bamboo for maximum durability. Like hardwood, bamboo should be protected from prolonged exposure to moisture, and spills should be cleaned promptly to prevent water damage. While bamboo is relatively tough, it can still be scratched by sharp claws or heavy wear, so taking precautions like using area rugs in high-traffic areas is a good idea.
Considerations:
While some flooring materials work well for pet owners, others can lead to headaches and potential hazards. In order to keep your pets safe and happy, it is best to avoid using certain flooring materials if furry friends are a key part of your household. Below are some of the worst flooring choices for homes with pets.
Regardless of the flooring you choose, preventing damage from your pets is key to keeping your floors in good shape. If you find your floors are in need of repairs or maintenance due to pet damage, a professional flooring company like us will always be able to help. Companies like Infinity Flooring know which materials should be used in a home with pets, and we are experts at installation and maintenance. Call us today for more information on the best floors for homes with pets, and keep these tips in mind to protect your existing floors.
To Protect Your Floors from Scratches:
To Prevent Stains:
Flooring Specialists In New Construction And Home Remodels
