Pets are an irreplaceable part of many homes today, yet those lovable little furballs can wreak havoc on floors, furniture and more. Sharp little toenails will scratch up your hardwood floors, and the occasional “accident” on your carpets will have you running for the steam cleaner. Since none of us are going to give up our pets any time soon, we’ve simply got to find a flooring solution that stands up to the rigors of pet ownership.
You’ll be happy to know that there are plenty of options for pet-friendly flooring. And you don’t even need to give up style for the sake of function! Numerous companies are now producing flooring that is both tough and beautiful, and we couldn’t be happier to hear it. Here are some of our favorite options.
Go Bare
Loads of homeowners are discovering the beauties of stripped down, stained concrete. Concrete staining and stamping is becoming super popular because you can achieve a huge range of looks – from faux hardwood to glistening marble – without any of the upkeep. This is one of the best flooring solutions if you have pets as it’s nearly indestructible but totally gorgeous.
Ceramic Tile
Of course, the next step up is ceramic tile. Tile is super tough, and it can take a beating from the biggest dogs and the longest toenails. It’s easy to clean up, and it’s stain resistant. If you live in a cold area, you’ll want to use plenty of throw rugs, but when the weather warms up, your dogs will love lounging on the cool floors.
Sheet Vinyl
If “vinyl” makes you think of high school hallways, think again. Vinyl flooring is seeing a major comeback as it’s not only super practical, but it has had a total style makeover. You can find vinyl flooring that looks like stone, tile, or even hardwood, so there’s no need to compromise the beauty of your home for the sake of your pet. Vinyl is a great pet-friendly solution because it virtually eliminates the click-clack of pet toenails on the floor. It’s a little softer than the previous solutions, and it’ll be warmer on your feet as well.
Laminate
Laminate has gotten a bad rep in years past. Maybe you’ve heard stories of laminate floors swelling and buckling, but don’t write this option of just yet. We’ve talked to many pet owners who absolutely love their laminate floors. Modern laminate is amazingly well-made, and it stands up to spills, scuffs and stains admirably. You’ll want to clean up any spills or “accidents” fairly quickly, but your floors aren’t going to be ruined just because a puppy decides to piddle.
Know What to Avoid
A few options may seem like good solutions, but be careful. Some natural materials like marble and stone are hard, but they’re porous. Pet urine and vomit can stain these surfaces, ruining your lovely floors – even if they’ve been sealed. If you’re not sure about a specific material, it’s always best to talk to an expert.