Not all floors were created equal, especially when you live along the coast.
Hypothetically speaking, floors that are used for homes inland can also work for your beach house, with good installation and regular maintenance. But life beside the sea means allowing the outside in. From kids and pets tracking in sand to the constant moisture brought by the ocean breeze, some floors are just a wiser choice than others.
Easy-to-clean and low-maintenance floors tend to work best in beach houses. For example, carpets are not advised since even the shortest pile is notorious for trapping dirt, and they need to be replaced more often. Fortunately, there are many options that fit in with the seaside lifestyle and will keep you focused on enjoying your time instead of spending it cleaning.
Laminate
Pros
- Economical, gives the look of hardwood floors without the price or the hassle
- Family-friendly , durable, able to withstand the heavy traffic of sand-covered feet
- Easy to clean and stain resistant
Cons
- Slippery, although some varieties come with a slip resistant layer
- Lower resale value
- Cannot be refinished or sanded if scratched or dented
Make sure when choosing laminate that it is installed as a floating floor and choose a moisture-resistant core to keep ground moisture from seeping up.
Ceramic Tile
Pros
- Increases resale value significantly
- Minimal maintenance needed, especially when glazed
- Helps maintain cooler temperatures in warm weather
- Several types and styles from which to choose
Cons
- Cold, hard walking surface during winter months
- No insulation properties so sound is not softened
- Can chip or crack if something heavy is dropped on it
As long as the tiles and grout are sealed, ceramic tile can withstand water as well as any flooring option, making it a good choice for beach homes. However, installing or repairing the floor is only recommended to be done by a professional because of its difficulty.
Hardwood
Pros
- Easy to repair minor scratches/damages by sanding down floor
- Aesthetically pleasing, makes home more attractive
- Sold in solid wood or engineered planks
Cons
- Excessive humidity can cause planks to expand, warp, and/or buckle.
- High-maintenance, sand will leave scratches even with several coats of wood finish
- Expensive to replace
If you decide you must have wood floors in your home, bamboo is the best choice. It offers a more durable surface than traditional hardwood and can withstand the extra moisture in the air that comes with living at the beach. It’s also environmentally friendly as a renewable resource which replaces itself every few years. Since the trees are typically found in humid climates, they naturally know how to keep moisture out.
The decision can be a difficult one, but seeking out the help of professionals can help. Make sure to contact one of the experts at Eastman’s Carpets and Flooring to learn the answers to all your beach floor questions!