Introduction
Around 40% of UK home owners have pets. The most popular pets being dogs and cats. There are some floors which lend themselves toward homes with pets and others which do not. So, let’s explore the pet-friendliness of some popular flooring types.
Carpet
Carpets make up over half of all flooring sales in the UK, so it’s safe to say they are popular. However, carpets are not particularly pet friendly. Firstly, carpets stain easily, whether from mud or worse… Also, dogs sometimes chew and cats sometimes claw at the carpet fibres. Furthermore, bugs and other creatures brought in by your pets can sometimes continue living in your carpet’s fibres, leading to a less hygienic home environment. Perhaps carpet is not the best choice for pets, let’s see what’s next.
Laminate
Laminate is a very affordable flooring. However, it can warp when liquids are spilt on it. Dog and cat bowl spillages can really damage your flooring and also create a slip hazard for both pet and owner. At least cleaning up fur off the floor will be much easier with laminate flooring. Still not great for pets, but definitely an improvement.
Vinyl
Whether in sheets or LVT tiles, vinyl flooring is a very pet-friendly choice. It is durable, so scratches will barely show. It is waterproof, so bowl spillages won’t permanently damage you floor. The polyurethane top coat is stain resistant, so mud (and worse!) can be wiped away easily. There are no fibres for bacteria and germs to hide in. Vinyl is fairly affordable and with basic maintenance (sweeping and mopping) should last for a very long time. Definitely, the best choice out there for homes with pets!
Wood Flooring
Real wood flooring is an expensive flooring material and really looks fantastic when maintained properly. However, the nature of pet ownership means that it can be hard to keep your hardwood floor pristine. Scratches and spillages will damage your flooring, so bear this in mind before investing in this flooring if you are an avid animal-lover. Not a bad choice for pets, but be prepared for your flooring to take some damage.
Rubber Flooring
Rubber flooring has long been considered a commercial flooring, but recently is becoming increasingly popular in the home. It’s a natural flooring, which absorbs sound well and is particularly pet friendly. Whilst unusual, this flooring material is certainly a good choice for you and your pet.
Conclusion
There are many flooring types out there and the one you choose will depend on the style you want in your home. That being said, if you plan on owning pets, then some floors are much better for you and your furry friends. Luxury vinyl tiles and sheet vinyl tops the list. Rubber flooring makes for a great alternative choice. Real wood looks amazing, but will get damaged. Laminate is affordable, but prone to warping when wet. And carpet feels great, but often harbours fur, germs and stains for longer. If you are choosing a floor for you and your pet – choose wisely!
