Renovating a rental with new flooring requires careful consideration. You need something that looks attractive, remains low-maintenance, and will last long enough to be worth the investment.
But which flooring option is best for a rental property?
A few factors contribute to this decision. You'll want to review your pet policy, maintenance and repair costs, and how much you'll likely earn from the renovation versus the initial investment.
Here are the advantages and disadvantages of carpet, hardwood, vinyl, and engineered flooring.
1. Carpet
Carpet is one of the softest flooring materials, made from synthetic and natural fibers such as wool, nylon, polyester, and polypropylene. Its cushioned surface is comfortable on the feet, and carpet comes in a broad spectrum of colors and styles that match almost any interior decor.
Although carpet is affordable, many renters see this flooring as a low-budget item. And many renters prefer the cleanliness and modernity of hardwood or vinyl in their homes.
Carpet is also not ideal for pet-friendly properties. While it's easy enough to replace, it traps allergens, hair, and other particles that may increase the need for maintenance and heavy-duty cleaning. Pet claws, muddy footprints, and urine are all unfriendly to this flooring option. If you opt for carpet, make sure to give tenants an easy way to submit maintenance requests. With Apartments.com, renters can submit requests online, and you can update them as repairs progress.
Pros
- Inexpensive
- Easy to replace
- Comfortable
Cons:
- "Cheap" appearance
- Traps allergens
- Susceptible to wear and tear and staining
Though some carpet materials are resistant to damage, carpet is a flooring option you'll need to manage. Professional carpet cleaning costs an average of $51 per room, not counting any intensive wear and tear. Even then, it usually requires replacement every five to ten years, even for a high-quality product. That said, with DIY experience, you can likely handle installation yourself.
Approximate cost: $2-$8 per square foot
2. Hardwood
Hardwood is a popular choice, having earned a classic reputation as a high-quality flooring option. Its timeless aesthetic adds elegance and beauty to a living space, complementing most designs from rustic to contemporary to traditional, and its benefits extend beyond the superficial.
You'll spend far more on hardwood than other flooring options, but if you make the investment, you'll find that it has a measurable impact on property value. Landlords can market hardwood flooring as a luxury amenity, potentially allowing you to up your rental rate.
Pros:
- Improves property value
- Lasts a long time
- Easy to clean
Cons:
- Can be expensive
- Difficult to repair
- Sensitive to water
There are a few costs beside that of the material itself to keep in mind. You'll need to delegate installation to a professional. Plus, while hardwood is easy to keep clean, refinishing to sand away wear and tear costs an average of $970 to $1,250 per 300 square feet. Hardwood floors can potentially last a lifetime, but it might be hard to justify the repair costs if your rental tends to attract regular wear and tear.
Do you own a pet-friendly rental? Cats tend not to harm hardwood floors, but dogs can create more damage depending on their size and degree of training. If there are pets in a unit with hardwood, you can let your tenants know that regular care—including nail clipping, floor padding, and prompt cleaning—should minimize any long-term damage.
Approximate cost: $5-$10 per square foot, plus installation
3. Vinyl
Vinyl is a synthetic material that's formed from a combination of ethylene and chlorine. It has a variety of applications, from records to piping to gloves, and it has a place in your rental if you're working within a tight budget. A good-quality vinyl floor can provide durability at a low cost.
Whether or not vinyl is appealing to tenants depends largely on your market. It's probably going to look cheap to renters at a higher price point. On the other hand, tenants will find it conveniently easy to care for, and a luxury vinyl can look quite nice if you're willing to spend more on a quality product.
In a pet-friendly property, vinyl can be susceptible to scratches. Otherwise, its water-resistant nature makes it friendly to cats and dogs alike.
Pros:
- Water-resistant
- Inexpensive
- Many colors and patterns
Cons:
- Subject to mold and mildew
- Can be unattractive
- Not eco-friendly
There is one significant complaint about vinyl as a rental flooring option: the material tends to emit an odor after installation, sometimes causing irritation. Still, you won't need professional assistance to start this renovation, and the price point is attractive.
Approximate cost: $2 per square foot, plus installation
4. Engineered flooring
Engineered wood flooring is composed of a thin slice of hardwood layered on a base of high-quality plywood. It has the attractive look of natural hardwood and the advantage of extra resistance to humidity. It also avoids warping over time, which is a concern you may have if you invest in solid wood flooring.
Like hardwood, engineered flooring can create marketable appeal for potential tenants. Since the floor is made from real wood, renters will appreciate the quality and appearance, and it's still likely the floor can justify a higher price point.
Pros:
- Multiple installation methods
- More resistant to damage
- Flexibility in placement
Cons:
- Wears away with sanding
- Shorter life than hardwood
- Poorer sound absorption
Because of its improved resistance to moisture and temperatures, engineered wood flooring can sometimes prove more expensive than hardwood. You'll also want to consider professional installation. The price largely depends on your property's unique needs.
As for repair? Engineered flooring cannot be refinished as often as hardwood. This can be a toss-up for a property owner, as it's hard to say if the extra resistance matches up with the longevity of properly-maintained hardwood. And engineered flooring is not great for pet-friendly rentals—scratches can be sanded down only once or twice, total.
Approximate cost: $5-$13 per square foot, plus installation
Which flooring option is best?
Consider the advantages and disadvantages of every flooring material, what they add to your rental, and the potential difficulties you might encounter. In some situations, carpeting is the best choice, and in other situations, hardwood is ideal.
Each of these flooring types comes in a variety of colors and textures that are sure to work in your unit. Whatever you choose, flooring is an important element of any rental, and there's no reason to rush the decision.
