Choosing the best flooring for Florida houses requires careful consideration of the climate, particularly the summer heat and high humidity. Choosing the right flooring can actually help you save on utility bills. Cooler floors keep your house cooler!
Here are some top flooring options that are well-suited for Florida’s conditions:
1. Ceramic and Porcelain Tile
Ceramic and porcelain tiles are popular choices for Florida homes due to their durability and ability to stay cool even in the hottest weather. These tiles are also highly resistant to water, making them ideal for the humid Florida climate.
We recently moved from wood flooring to ceramic wood planks and we were dumbfounded how much cooler our house feels!
- Advantages: Ceramic and porcelain tiles are highly durable, water-resistant, and excellent at keeping homes cool in hot weather. They are also easy to clean and come in a variety of styles and colors.
- Why It’s Great for Florida: Tiles remain cool underfoot, even during the hottest months, making them ideal for the summer heat. They also handle humidity well, preventing mold and mildew growth.
- Sources: The Spruce, HomeAdvisor
2. Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP)
Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP) is gaining popularity in Florida due to its ability to mimic the look of wood or stone while offering superior resistance to moisture and temperature changes.
- Advantages: LVP mimics the look of wood or stone but is more affordable and highly resistant to moisture. It is also durable and easy to maintain.
- Why It’s Great for Florida: LVP’s water resistance makes it perfect for humid conditions. It also doesn’t expand or contract with temperature changes, making it stable in the heat.
- Sources: FlooringInc, Bob Vila
3. Engineered Hardwood
Engineered hardwood offers the beauty of natural wood with enhanced stability, making it a smart choice for homes in Florida where humidity and temperature fluctuations are common.
- Advantages: Engineered hardwood provides the beauty of natural wood with enhanced stability. It has a plywood base that resists warping and moisture.
- Why It’s Great for Florida: Unlike solid hardwood, engineered hardwood can handle the humidity and temperature fluctuations better, reducing the risk of warping.
- Sources: HomeAdvisor, This Old House
4. Natural Stone
Natural stone flooring is celebrated for its durability and natural cooling properties, making it an excellent choice for the warm climate of Florida.
- Advantages: Natural stone, such as marble, granite, or travertine, is incredibly durable and cool to the touch. It adds a luxurious feel to any home.
- Why It’s Great for Florida: Stone floors are naturally cool, making them perfect for Florida’s hot climate. They are also very resistant to moisture and can last for decades with proper care.
- Sources: The Spruce, FlooringInc
5. Bamboo Flooring
Bamboo flooring is a sustainable and eco-friendly option that performs well in humid climates, making it suitable for Florida homes.
- Advantages: Bamboo is a sustainable and eco-friendly flooring option. It is durable, easy to maintain, and resistant to moisture and humidity.
- Why It’s Great for Florida: Bamboo handles humidity better than traditional hardwoods and remains stable under temperature fluctuations, making it a good choice for Florida homes.
- Sources: Bob Vila, HomeAdvisor
6. Laminate Flooring
Laminate can be a great inexpensive flooring to use in Florida!
- Advantages: Laminate is an affordable alternative to hardwood that is easy to install and maintain. It comes in a wide range of styles and is resistant to scratches and dents.
- Why It’s Great for Florida: Modern laminate flooring is designed to withstand humidity and temperature changes, making it suitable for Florida’s climate.
- Sources: The Spruce, HomeAdvisor
Tips for Choosing the Best Flooring
- Moisture Resistance: Choose flooring that can handle high humidity and occasional flooding.
- Heat Management: Opt for materials that remain cool underfoot and don’t expand or contract with temperature changes.
- Durability: Consider the durability of the flooring, especially if it will be installed in high-traffic areas.
- Aesthetic Appeal: Ensure the flooring matches your home’s décor and your personal style preferences.
By selecting the right flooring material, you can ensure that your Florida home remains comfortable and stylish even during the hottest summer months.
