First Renovation; Flooring advice

[Pete Harper]

We just purchased our first duplex. Looking for advice on flooring options. The floors on side A need to be replaced. Water damage in the utilities, mixture of laminate in living room, and glue down tile in bath. Subfloor is cement slab in good shape.

My wife and I are debating what type of flooring. My wife likes ceramic tile. We found faux wood ceramic tile on sale at Lowe’s for $0.49-0.99/sqrft. Getting quotes for install.

I’ve heard good things about LVP. Side B has LVP and the floors are badly faded in dining area by window. I’m not sure the age, house is 1985 so I don’t think it is original. Linoleum was the rage in the ‘80s.

Our plan is for long term buy and hold. What would be the best option for long term durability and cost?

Thanks, Pete

[Joe Scaparra]

I have tried just about everything.  The latest and greatest is vinyl.  Specifically, I use LifeProof Vinyl that is all vinyl and thick that can be laid directly over any surface.  It is lifetime guarantee and great for rentals. Can be laid in kitchen and baths as water has no effect.  Looks like wood and lots of different color choices.  Easy to install, the one draw back is cost.  It cost more than tile about $2.50-$2.80 per square foot but no underlayment required and install cost is lower.  Looks nice, no grout to worry about, no sealing of grout or tile to worry about, and no chips or cracks to worry about.  My go to flooring product.