As many pet owners know, four-legged companions can very quickly become true members of the family. That typically means they get free reign of the house, as well as access to the many different flooring options laid throughout. Dogs’ nails and cats’ claws can do a number on those surfaces, though, leading many homeowners to suffer from some rather expensive headaches.
It may be tempting to simply close doors and block off rooms, but it’s possible to coexist with your fur babies while also keeping your floors looking nice. This guide to pet-friendly flooring will help you understand the available options and narrow down which will be best for your pet-loving family.
Flooring Pros and Cons
Carpet
Nails and claws can’t scratch or gouge carpet, making it a good fit for pet-friendly homes, and the plush quality negates the clicking sound made when pets traverse the space. Their fur and dander can easily become embedded in the carpet — something allergy sufferers will want to beware — and cats with claws like to knead on the surfaces. Color matters, too, as darker colors more easily show fur.
Vinyl
Durable and long-lasting, vinyl is resistant to scraping, scratching, denting, moisture, and other common household snafus. It’s also easy to maintain, requires minimal care, and boasts a simple installation process. Fur and dust can quickly build up on the surface, though, meaning vinyl will need regular sweeping and mopping to keep it looking clean.
Tile or Stone
When it comes to durability, stone and tile are difficult to beat. They’re scratch resistant as well as stylish, making both ideal for pet-friendly homes. Stone isn’t for everyone, but installation is relatively simple. Plus, its durability, easy cleaning, and minimal maintenance aspects make it a good choice for pet owners who like the look.
Hardwood
Hardwood isn’t as durable as other options, and certainly not as scratch resistant, but there are ways to keep hardwoods in a home with cats and dogs. An extra-thick layer of finish will create a strong barrier between your pets’ nails and the wood itself, thereby resisting everyday scratching.
Ensure pets are potty trained before allowing them access, keep their nails trimmed to avoid scraping, clean up spills and messes immediately, lay down runners to minimize traffic zone wear and tear, and refinish floors regularly to keep that sealing coat strong. Also, provide cats with designated scratching posts to keep your floors from becoming their new favorite plaything.
The most durable hardwood flooring option are those in our Resilienta product line. These floors are incredibly scratch resistant, making them a perfect choice for homeowners who want the beauty of wood flooring without worrying that their pet will damage the surface.
Cork
A natural and renewable flooring option, cork is known for its durability, mold and mildew resistance, impermeability to liquids, antimicrobial aspects, fire resistance, cushioned foot feel, and various colors and patterns. Its resilience makes it an excellent option for homeowners with pets.
Making the choice
It’s essential to protect your flooring choices, no matter which option you choose for your pet-friendly house. Proper care and cleaning can keep floors looking like new for years to come, extending their lifetime and maximizing your investment in them. Speak with a flooring expert to learn the best ways to care for your home’s many floor types, especially if you have pets sharing your space.