Choosing the right flooring can feel overwhelming. With so many materials, price points, and opinions out there, homeowners often ask the same core questions before starting a project.
Below, we will break down four of the most common flooring questions and give honest, experience-based answers to help you make the best decision for your home.
1. What Is the Best Flooring for the Money?
There isn’t a one-size-fits-all answer when it comes to the best flooring for the money. The right choice depends on the project, the room it’s going into, and how the space will be used.
That said, if I had to choose one option that consistently delivers long-term value, it would be engineered hardwood. It offers the classic look of real wood, lasts for many years, and can be refinished if needed—something many budget flooring options simply can’t offer. When installed correctly and used in the right environment, engineered hardwood provides a strong balance of durability, appearance, and longevity.
2. How Much Does It Cost to Install 1,000 Square Feet of Flooring?
Installation costs can vary depending on the type of flooring, layout of the space, and labor rates, but for luxury vinyl plank (LVP), you can expect installation costs to range from:
$1.00 – $2.50 per square foot
For a 1,000 square foot space, that typically puts installation costs between $1,000 and $2,500, not including the material itself. Luxury vinyl plank remains popular because it’s affordable, durable, and works well in many areas of the home.
3. What Is the Best Type of Flooring?
The best type of flooring is highly situational. Climate, moisture, traffic, and personal preference all play a role in what will perform best in your space.
From a personal standpoint, one of my favorite options is heated porcelain tile with a high-end grout. It’s extremely durable, performs well in moisture-prone environments, and adds a level of comfort and luxury that’s hard to beat—especially in bathrooms and colder climates. When installed properly, porcelain tile can last a lifetime.
4. What Is the Best Type of Waterproof Flooring?
When it comes to true waterproof performance, porcelain tile is the gold standard. It’s designed to hold up in extreme environments—including swimming pools—so it can absolutely handle daily household moisture.
However, for full house builds, I typically recommend luxury vinyl plank in a glue-down format. The reason is simple:
- Individual planks can be replaced if damaged
- It results in fewer warranty claims
- There’s less risk of locking mechanisms breaking over time
This makes glue-down LVP a practical, low-maintenance solution for homeowners who want waterproof performance with flexibility and peace of mind.
Final Thoughts
The “best” flooring always comes down to how and where it will be used. Budget, moisture, traffic, and long-term expectations all matter. Whether you’re building a new home or updating a single room, choosing the right flooring upfront can save money, time, and headaches down the road.
