Aesthetically pleasing flooring not only adds to the visual appeal of a house, apartment, retail or office space, it also increases the value by approximately five to eight percent, and generates a return on investment (ROI) that ranges between 10 and 15%.
If you are renovating or selling your property, here five flooring options that can boost its value:
- Carpets: The simplest and quickest option, carpeting lends a cosy air to any room. However, it is difficult to maintain as even frequent vacuuming cannot remove some stains and dust, so avoid this option if you have pets, children under three,or family members who suffer from allergies or asthma. Price range: Rs 70-100 per sq ft; installation costs: Rs 10-12 per sq ft.
- Concrete: Simple grey cooncrete floors are ideal if you are on a budget; you can accentuate them with borders made with copper or glass panes, or bricks and pebbles to make them more visually appealing. As concrete is easy to maintain, it is ideal for children’s rooms, entrances, kitchens and offices. Price range: Rs 100-150 per sq ft; installation costs: Rs 200-250 per sq ft.
- Tiles: Durable and always in vogue, tiles are a proper option and are available in several varieties including glazed, matte, porcelain and terracotta. Remember, plain tiles are cheaper than those with elaborate designs. Price range: Rs 800- 1,800 per sq ft; installation costs: Rs 30-40 per sq ft.
- Vinyl: The least expensive option, vinyl flooring comes in a range of colours and shades, some of which can resemble wood. Vinyl is ideal for office or retail spaces, as well as kitchens and laundry rooms. However, maintaining vinyl is not easy because it is more prone to cracks than other options. Prince range: Rs 50-80 per sq ft; installation costs: Rs 10-12 per sq ft. 4Vinyl. The least expensive option, vinyl flooring comes in a range of colours and shades, some of which can resemble wood. Vinyl is ideal for office or retail spaces, as well as kitchens and laundry rooms. However, maintaining vinyl is not easy because it is more prone to cracks than other options. Prince range: Rs 50-80 per sq ft; installation costs: Rs 10-12 per sq ft.
- Wood: Exuding class,wooden floors are among the more expensive flooring choices, but the results are worth it. The most expensive option is teak, while rosewood (sheesham) is relatively more economical. Price range: Rs 190-400 per sq ft; installation costs:Rs 50-60 per sq ft.
By Uzma Nawaz