Installing new flooring? Here are a few things to consider...

Yesterday I had the pleasure of facilitating some contractor visits and bids for one of my buyer clients who is relocating to Carmichael from another state. My buyer client was in town just for the day so we wanted to pack as much into a few hours as possible. 

Flooring is among the home improvements that my client is considering before her family moves in. 

Choosing between laminate and luxury vinyl plank (LVP) flooring can be a tough decision, but understanding key criteria can help you make the right choice for your home. A few things to consider:

• Durability and waterproofing are crucial factors. While laminate offers decent durability, LVP takes the lead with its waterproof properties, making it ideal for areas prone to moisture like kitchens and bathrooms. 
• Price versus value is another consideration. While laminate tends to be more budget-friendly initially, LVP may offer superior long-term value due to its durability and resistance to water damage, potentially saving you money on repairs or replacements down the line. 
• Lighter-colored flooring can also make a room appear larger and more spacious. Both laminate and LVP come in a variety of shades, allowing you to choose the perfect hue to enhance your space. 
• Since both laminate and LVP designs are printed on the planks, it is also important to understand how many repeating designs there are...if all of the planks look the same, your installation may look a little weird. Versus if there are 12 different plank designs that can be spread out across a room, the floor will look more natural. Be sure to check to see how many different plank designs there are.
• When installing new flooring, it's essential to consider the baseboards as well. Opting for flat surface baseboards over beveled ones can make cleaning and dusting much easier, ensuring your floors look pristine with minimal effort.
• Ultimately, whether you choose laminate or LVP depends on your priorities and budget. If durability and waterproofing are top concerns, LVP might be the better option. However, if you're working with a tighter budget and don't require waterproofing, laminate can still provide a stylish and cost-effective solution.

My client chose a middle-grade LVP (the one to the far left in the photo) and a 5-inch flat baseboard! I think it will look super nice.