Best Flooring for Busy Summers

Summer in Colorado is wonderful, but it’s also rough on your floors. Between sandy feet coming in from the lake and muddy boots from a trail hike, your floors take a beating from May through September. If your floors are already looking tired, it might be time to think about a more durable option before the season really gets going.

Not all flooring holds up the same way in a high-traffic home, so here’s a look at three solid choices from our team: luxury vinyl plank, laminate, and tile.

Wood countertop with farmhouse sink.

Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP)

If there’s one flooring type that has earned its reputation with busy families, it’s luxury vinyl plank. It looks like real wood, feels comfortable underfoot, and it’s completely waterproof. Spilled drinks, wet swimsuits dropped on the floor, muddy paws: LVP handles all of it.

  • Pros: Waterproof, scratch-resistant, soft underfoot
  • Best for: Kitchens, mudrooms, entryways, basements, family rooms
  • Maintenance: A quick sweep and a damp mop is really all it needs

For homes with pets, young kids, or just a lot of activity, LVP is a great, affordable option. It doesn’t demand much from you, and it gives a lot back in return.

White kitchen with luxury plank flooring.

Laminate

Laminate has come a long way over the years. Today’s options look realistic, feel solid, and hold up well to the kind of daily wear that comes with a lived-in home. It’s also one of the more affordable flooring choices out there, which makes it a practical option if you’re refreshing multiple rooms at once.

  • Pros: Scratch- and scuff-resistant, budget-friendly, attractive wood-look styles
  • Best for: Living rooms, hallways, bedrooms, dining areas
  • Maintenance: Regular sweeping and light damp mopping keeps it looking good

One thing to keep in mind: laminate isn’t waterproof. It’s a great choice for areas that stay mostly dry, but in rooms where moisture is common, LVP or tile will serve you better.

Large, bright kitchen with wood laminate flooring.

Tile

Tile is the go-to for areas that see a lot of water and mess, and during summer, that’s most of the house. Porcelain tile is incredibly durable and naturally cool underfoot, which is a welcome bonus on hot days. A quick wipe handles most spills, and the grout just needs occasional attention to stay looking fresh.

  • Pros: Fully waterproof, extremely tough, easy to clean
  • Best for: Kitchens, bathrooms, entryways, sunrooms
  • Maintenance: Wipe spills as they happen; clean grout periodically

Beyond that, tile opens up a lot of design possibilities. The right pattern or color can change the character of a room.

White bathroom with tile floor and large standing bathtub.

Which One Is Right for You?

Each of these options has a real place in a busy home: sometimes all three in different areas.

We carry luxury vinyl plank, laminate, tile, and more, including solid hardwood, engineered hardwood, and carpet, so you have real options no matter your style or budget. Our team is happy to help you figure out what makes the most sense for your space. Call us today, and we’ll point you in the right direction.