Let's talk flooring - carpet, pad, and vinyl plank

[Karen Young]

Have you used Matthews & Perlo carpet SP 300? What is your opinion on it? Does it hold up well?

Carpet padding - 6Lb 7/16" Rebond carpet pad - is that standard?

Luxury Vinyl Plank flooring - What brand and color is your go-to favorite?

Many thanks!

[Keith Lewis]

Hi there, might be coming late to the discussion. Hard surface is normally the way to go to keep your long term costs down. You may need carpet or soundproofing for second floor residences depending on your ordinances. I normally prefer the LVT products for overall durability with the following caveats: NEVER purchase anything with an overall thickness of 2mm. It will show every bump and lump in the subfloor and make the place look cheap. Stay at least at 3mm, 4mm if you have the budget. ALWAYS make sure your LVT has a FINISH over the wearlayer of Alunminum Oxide or Ceramic Bead for scratching resistantance; nothing is bullet proof but it helps tremendously. Make sure the product is virgin vinyl and not recycled content as there are pitfalls too numerous to mention regarding such products. Finally if you're going to using a Click Lock type product find one with the Unilin locking system, they seems to have a better track record for installing easier and staying together. Hope that helps. Been in the industry for thirty, so post me if you have more questions