From hard-wearing carpets and ceramic tiles to vinyl and laminate there is now a whole range of different types of flooring for properties.

But what should you put where and how do you decide?

Here are some general points you’ll need to consider when looking at flooring for your investment property:

1. Price

As always, you need to have a think about your budget, and very often the type of flooring you choose, will be dependent on the price. However, remember, getting the cheapest option may not be the best if you end up having to replace the flooring every time you get new tenants.

2. Durability

Rental properties do tend to suffer more wear-and-tear, so whatever flooring you decide on, make sure it is durable.

3. Design

Like the walls and ceiling, flooring needs to be a relatively neutral colour and tone and a plain design or pattern.

4. Maintenance

Tenants like low-maintenance – they will definitely thank you if you choose an easy clean carpet, or laminate and vinyl. Plus, you’ll be saving yourself in cleaning costs in the long run too!

5. Types of flooring

• Carpets

Carpets are great for making a room cosy and homely. Plus, they are great for insulation and for noise reduction. But they are sometimes difficult to keep clean, and a while a white carpet may look great for the room, it may put off tenants who will be thinking about how to keep it clean. It’s also worth noting, wear and tear is less visible on darker coloured carpets.

• Vinyl

Vinyl is a very affordable, low-maintenance flooring and it is easy to clean, moisture tolerant and can help with noise reduction. However, it can be susceptible to scrapes, tears and scratches. Laying vinyl tiles may be an option as these are easier to replace when there is damage in a small area.

• Laminate

Laminate now comes in tile, real wood or stone designs and while it’s not as hard-wearing as ‘the real thing’ it is resistant to scratches, bumps and scrapes.

On the downside, it can be noisier underfoot than other flooring options, and it’s not recommended for high moisture areas.

• Ceramic tiles

These are durable and long-lasting, waterproof and very easy to clean. Plus they don’t scratch! But they can be pricy, are cold underfoot and are difficult to replace should they crack if something heavy is dropped on it.

6. What goes where?

While it does depend on the property and the types of tenants you are wanting to attract, we generally recommend you use a heavy duty vinyl tile that looks like timber in the living rooms, hallways and kitchen for your investment property.

Carpet is still very popular in the bedroom as it gives a very cosy feel and is added insulation for those chilly winter nights. For high moisture areas, such as the bathroom and laundry, ceramic tiles are generally used.

Want some more tips on how to renovate or how to get the best out of your investment property? Give us a call on 02 4956 9777 or pop into our Cardiff office for a chat. Or send us an email to: mail@newcastlepropertymanagement.com.au – we’d love to hear from you.

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