When it comes to flooring materials for your Blacksburg single-family rental property, there are various options available. The most well-liked flooring types – tile, hardwood, and vinyl – are at the top of most property owners’ lists. But if you’re trying to decide on just one, that can be some kind of a challenge. Tile, hardwood, and vinyl flooring each have both pros and cons. Knowing what those pros and cons are can help you make the best flooring decision for your properties.
Tile
There is something timeless about a tile floor, which explains why it remains one of the most popular choices. Tile has multiple benefits, among a few are long-lasting durability and high levels of water resistance. Tile also comes in many different colors, sizes, and styles, making it possible to make your floors as ordinary and simple or as extravagant as you want. Repairing and replacing tile is a relatively uncomplicated task since individual tiles can often be removed and new ones put in their place. And lastly, tile tends to be more affordable than hardwood, and typically requires less maintenance than hardwood, too.
That does not necessarily mean that tile doesn’t have a number of shortcomings, though. Despite the fact that the tile itself will no doubt last for years, that is only true if it is properly maintained. Some kinds of household cleaners can damage certain types of tile. Besides, tile grout will get stained and dirty soon after a while and will need to be cleaned or replaced and re-sealed to remain in good condition. Finally, it’s better to keep in mind that replacing an entire tile floor can be a toilsome task, and tile availability does change with time.
Hardwood
The beauty and warmth of a hardwood floor are incomparable. Precisely why hardwood is such a popular choice for property owners. Like tile, hardwood tends to be durable and can last a very long time with proper maintenance. With plenty of varied wood options, it can also add value to your property, not to mention attract tenants who are looking for an upgraded rental home.
But, on the flip side, the biggest disadvantage to hardwood has to be the price. It is, actually, one of the most expensive types of flooring around, partly because it requires skilled installation. Hardwood floors are also more vulnerable to water damage, stains, and wear, so regular maintenance is very vital. Harsh chemicals and cleaners can damage a wood floor, which means you’ll need to ensure your tenants know how to care for it with the correct approach. On top of that, you would need to budget funds for refinishing your property’s wood floors every few years to ensure that it maintains long-term appeal.
Vinyl
While tile and hardwood are both great options for rental property owners, vinyl flooring is by far the most accepted option. There are a lot of solid reasons for this, starting with the cost. Vinyl tends to cost less than either tile or hardwood but still offers a diverse range of colors, styles, and options. Property owners also like vinyl because it is fairly easy to replace and repair if needed. Vinyl planking, in particular, can be repaired in small sections without needing to replace the entire floor. Vinyl is also easy to keep clean and can withstand a large amount of water damage.
There are some serious reasons to think carefully before installing vinyl, however. Vinyl floors are often easily gouged or scratched, especially if a tenant moves heavy furniture without protecting the floor beneath it. Vinyl works well in some rooms, but some tenants may not like vinyl in all the rooms of the house. Along with tile and hardwood, it is possible to damage vinyl by using the wrong cleaning solution so that tenants would need specific advice on vinyl floor maintenance.
While tile, hardwood, and vinyl flooring are popular for a good reason, each comes with disadvantages that have to be taken into consideration carefully. Once you have done so, however, it can make choosing the right flooring for your rental property an easy and swift undertaking.
Have you found a rental property to invest in, but are feeling overwhelmed with the management side of things? Real Property Management Insight has your solution! Contact us online or call us at 540-998-6917.
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