BEST FLOORING FOR PETS

BEST

FOR PETS

By Gail Mayhugh

One question I get asked a lot from pet owners is, “What’s the best flooring for pets?” I wrote about flooring six years ago, so I thought it was time to share some of the flooring improvements and new products introduced in hard surface products.

Before you start, you need to consider five primary things: durability, comfort, maintenance, safety, and tolerance to mishaps. Make a list of must-haves, would like to have and don’t want before you start out shopping.

First, let’s look at what everyone is talking about, luxury vinyl tile. One of the newest improvements and the highly requested product is Luxury Vinyl tiles and planks, known as LVT. At least 50% of people who are remodeling are replacing their carpet with LVT, and new home buyers, even in high-priced homes, are using it. Why? Well, it’s not like your grandmother’s linoleum and has come a long way in the last couple of years. They come in large tile sizes that look just like stone and wood planks that most people have to touch to tell it’s not tile or wood. They come in an extensive range of colors, styles, and sizes. So, what’s so great about them? One of the most exciting things is that they’re water-resistant and some are even waterproof. Personally, I don’t like to say that anything is waterproof, scratchproof, or stain proof – even concrete cracks and stain.

Some people are hesitant to use vinyl because they feel it says inexpensive. But innovations in materials have come a long way. Some say vinyl is a fad, but I think it’s here to stay.

Tile has always been the number one go-to, above other hard surfaces; before the luxury vinyl. But of course, what everyone likes the least with tile is keeping the grout clean. There has always been grout that resists staining; it’s more expensive, although worth every penny over stained grout you have to frequently clean.

If you prefer tile, there are large format tiles, so less grout. Twelve by twenty-four has been popular for many years now, but now they come in 24 x 48, which I like to call jumbo. Wait until you see one, you’ll understand. If you’re considering a 24 x 48 tile, buy a sample. First, to make sure it’s not too big for your home and to see how it will layout in smaller areas like hallways. I’m not a fan of tiny cuts, so take the time to make sure it will work in your home. Depending upon where your hallway meets the 24 x 48, an option is to use a smaller tile in the hallway. Not my favorite thing to do but in my opinion is better than seeing tiny cuts. Always work with your installers as they lay tile every day.

If you like the wood look but don’t want to use vinyl or wood, laminate is still a good option. It’s scratch-resistant and durable. One of the cons with laminate has always been spills; now there are water resistant and even waterproof ones on the market.

Other options you can still consider are carpet, wood, and cork; each has its own pros and cons. A major consideration when selecting flooring is what is best for your pet. Perhaps your pet is older and not as steady on their feet or has a medical condition.

Lastly, there is conflicting information about whether formaldehyde is still being used in the manufacturing process of carpeting. You have to do your own research about the particular product you’re considering.

No matter which way you go, there will always be accidents, shedding, and playful running with pets. Everyone has different tolerance levels for maintenance and comfort; you have to determine yours.

Gail Mayhugh, the owner of GMJ Interior Design, has been designing in Las Vegas for over 20 years. She also supports animal rescues and shelters through her non-profit, www.SeniorsToTheRescue.org.