Florida’s climate is a unique experience for anyone building a
home in the Sunshine State. The tropical climate is abundantly green and has
sunshine most days of the year, but the challenges of the climate are
apparent when building homes and structures. Florida’s humidity and rain can
cause problems for homeowners, including cracking, expansion, and contraction
from humidity. If you choose a floor type that is inherently incompatible
with the climate, you may face curvature of your flooring and high costs in
repair and re-installation fees. It’s important for homeowners to research
the materials that will keep the floors in your Florida home pristine and
well-maintained.
Worst: Solid Hardwood Flooring
One of the worst options in Florida is solid hardwood
flooring. The ¾” solid planks are better suited for Northern climates
and have difficulty adjusting to the tropical climate. Most will advise
against solid hardwood flooring and instead will suggest engineered hardwood
flooring, which is still hardwood but designed to better withstand the
climate. Engineered hardwood typically has more flexible installation options
as well.
Best: Vinyl Tile Flooring
Vinyl tile can be a good option to protect against
humidity and is commonly used in Florida’s homes. Vinyl is used in high
moisture areas and many homeowners use it in bathrooms as a go-to flooring
type. Vinyl can imitate distressed wood or take on a modern look, from
metallics and dark colors to bright ivories.
Best:
Laminate Flooring
Laminated wood is moisture-resistant
and doesn’t fade from sun exposure. This type of flooring doesn’t expand or
curve due to high humidity and can be installed directly over a concrete
base. These factors make it a popular choice among homeowners in Florida.
Laminate flooring has grown in popularity over the years as technology and
aesthetics of the laminate have vastly improved since it first emerged in the
flooring market.
Best: Porcelain Tile Flooring
Porcelain tiles are among some of the easiest flooring
types to maintain; typically, all they require is a disinfectant and
regular mopping. Porcelain tiles are water resistant and easy to clean.
Homeowners in Florida like porcelain because it’s aesthetically attractive
and can also mimic other floor types.
