When choosing new hard surface floors for the home we often think of functionality, durability, and cleanliness. We don’t often consider the design aspect of the floors and the versatility they can offer. White flooring has recently come back into trend, specifically for its minimalist quality and clean aesthetic. But, how practical are they? Here are some of the pros and cons you should consider if you are interested in this latest floor trend.
Pros of White Floors
White floors are known to pair well with modern decor, but depending on how rustic the grain is, they can really go with any decorative style. They can look great with farmhouse decor, shabby chic designs, and even industrial settings. More than anything, the white opens up small spaces and allows natural light to bounce off the floor. If you have a small living room or small guest room, the combination of white hardwoods and light colored paint will make them feel ten times bigger.
Chip and Joanna Gaines, from the hit HGTV show Fixer Upper, love to utilize the white floor concept using shiplap. Often times, she will add it to an accent wall or stain it and use it as flooring in a central space. Using the white color as an almost “backdrop” allows you to showcase your furniture and decorations more than if you used dark wood. Everything from picture frames to chairs to pillows will pop out and contrast more because of the white floors.
Cons of White Floors
We all worry about getting our food or drinks on our white clothing. The same mentality applies to white flooring as well. If you have a house full of children or pets, white floors might pose a bit of a challenge for you. While you can buy white washed flooring in more durable and water resistant materials, you will have to clean and mop regularly to prevent dust, dirt, and stains from showing up easily.
Some of the upkeep can be regulated by simply adding an area rug or mat to high traffic rooms. You can also choose a white floor with a bit more pattern or texture to it to eliminate the visibility of dirt and stains.
At Flack’s Flooring, we have a few different white hard surface flooring options, including our Bold Statement Special by Phenix in the color Seashell (pictured above). White flooring can be a big risk, but it can also add personality and that unique quality to your home. Please visit the store if you would like to see our white flooring options, and ask a sales specialist about its pros and cons.