The average cost of building a home in the U.S. is about $284,000 dollars. A property developer aims to build at the minimum average cost to increase profits. That means you end up with “builder grade” materials when it comes to flooring, windows, and other fixtures. 

Builder grade isn’t the highest quality option and may not be as beautiful and durable as other options. 

With a custom home, you get to choose the essentials, such as your flooring materials. Flooring is one of the most important choices you’ll make if you’re building a custom home. Instead of getting what works best for the builder’s bottom line, you’ll get what works best for your lifestyle and budget. 

Keep reading for four of the best flooring materials for your custom home. 

1. Hardwood Flooring

If you’re looking for sturdy flooring options that last a lifetime, genuine hardwood is a great option. Natural wood is also beautiful with variations in the grain that complement almost any type of custom-built home. There are many different options when it comes to hardwood, including wide, narrow, and medium-sized planks. 

Hardwood flooring also comes in many different colors. One of the appeals of hardwood is its durability because you can resurface it every 3-5 years if necessary. 

Hardwood can develop dents, scrapes, and scratches over time, and it’s also vulnerable to moisture damage. It’s best not to use it in the kitchen or bathroom. It’s also expensive compared to some other flooring options. 

2. Laminate Flooring

Laminate flooring looks like hardwood but it’s less expensive than real hardwood. Some types of laminate (but not all) hold up well to spills so they work great in the kitchen and bathroom. Laminate comes in a plethora of styles and types, and it’s easy to care for. 

One of the downsides of laminate is that you can’t repair, sand, or refinish it. If the laminate gets a damaged area, the entire piece needs replacing. 

3. Vinyl Flooring

When you think of vinyl, you may think it’s cheap and unappealing but modern vinyl is economical, versatile, and durable. There are lots of different designs and colors from which to choose. Vinyl mimics ceramic, wood, and even stone. 

One downside of vinyl is that it doesn’t have the same resale value as wood or laminate. 

4. Ceramic Tiles

When it comes to residential flooring options, many people opt for ceramic. It’s durable and versatile and works for every room in the house. It holds its own against water making it a great home flooring option for kitchens, bathrooms, and beach homes. 

Ceramic tiles don’t do well in very cold weather, so if you live in a frost zone, it’s best avoided. Depending on the type of ceramic, it can be quite expensive.  

Best Flooring Materials for Your Custom Home

These are only a few of the best flooring materials available for your custom home. There are also many other types of flooring that work well in a home environment. 

Are you wondering where to start when it comes to choosing flooring materials? Give us a call today and let us help you with your Long Island custom home!