Category: Flooring

Families need flooring that can handle real life—kids running in and out, pets tracking in dirt, and endless daily foot traffic. Two of the most practical options for modern homes are luxury vinyl plank (LVP) and laminate flooring. Both look great, install easily, and cost less than hardwood. But which one truly fits your home best? Here’s a complete comparison to help Texas homeowners choose confidently.

Understanding the Basics

Luxury vinyl plank is a synthetic flooring with a flexible, waterproof core and a photographic design layer that mimics natural wood or stone. Laminate flooring also uses a printed design layer, but its core is made from dense fiberboard and a resin finish. Both options click together for floating installation—no glue required.

Visit our Vinyl Flooring or Laminate Flooring pages to see how each performs underfoot and which look suits your home best.

Durability in Daily Life

In high-traffic homes, resilience matters. Luxury vinyl has the advantage in moisture-prone areas—it’s fully waterproof and resists swelling, even under sinks or near patio doors. Laminate flooring, while durable, is only water-resistant. It performs best in living areas and bedrooms rather than bathrooms or laundry rooms.

Both handle everyday wear well, with scratch-resistant top layers that withstand pets and play. For deeper insight, read Six Benefits of Vinyl Flooring and Benefits of Laminate Flooring to compare longevity and performance.

Appearance and Texture

Laminate flooring often features a more detailed wood grain image layer, giving it sharp realism. Vinyl, on the other hand, has improved texture technology that adds subtle embossing for a true-to-life feel. Both come in a wide variety of tones and finishes, from pale oak to espresso walnut, so you can easily match any decor.

The key difference: vinyl tends to look slightly softer under light, while laminate has a crisp, photographic clarity. The right choice depends on whether you want a warm, matte feel or a more polished, refined finish.

Comfort and Acoustics

Luxury vinyl tends to be softer and quieter underfoot thanks to its layered structure and optional cushioned backing. Laminate is firmer, which some homeowners like for the stability it provides, though it can amplify sound without underlayment. Adding a sound-reducing pad beneath either surface can dramatically improve comfort and noise control—something busy Texas households appreciate.

Water and Heat Resistance

Vinyl plank wins when it comes to water resistance. It can handle kitchen spills, bathroom humidity, and wet footprints without damage. Laminate should be wiped quickly after spills to avoid moisture absorption. Both handle the Texas climate well if installed properly, though vinyl’s flexible core adapts better to temperature swings.

Maintenance and Longevity

Both floors are low maintenance: just sweep and damp mop with a gentle cleaner. Avoid steam mops or wax-based products. Vinyl typically lasts 15–25 years, while laminate averages around 10–20 years depending on quality and care. Choosing a higher wear layer or thicker plank ensures longer performance for either.

Cost and Value

Laminate usually costs slightly less per square foot than LVP. However, the waterproofing and longer life of vinyl often justify the higher initial price. When comparing quotes, factor in underlayment and trim accessories for a realistic total. Our team can help you compare price points during your showroom visit to find the best value for your home.

Where Each Option Works Best

• Luxury Vinyl: Great for kitchens, bathrooms, laundry rooms, and entryways.
• Laminate: Best suited for bedrooms, offices, or living spaces with lower moisture exposure.

If you’re considering tile for heavy-use zones, explore Benefits of Tile Flooring to see how it compares for longevity and maintenance.

The Final Decision

Ultimately, both materials offer beautiful designs and dependable performance. If waterproofing and softness matter most, luxury vinyl plank is the winner. If you prefer a firmer, traditional wood feel at a slightly lower cost, laminate delivers excellent value.

At Hilton’s Flooring, our team can show you side-by-side samples, explain warranty details, and help you choose the right floor for every room. Stop by our showroom or schedule a free in-home consultation to compare these two durable, family-friendly choices.

Bathrooms in Texas work hard. Between humidity, temperature swings, and busy family routines, your floor needs to be beautiful, waterproof, and easy to live with. At Hilton’s Flooring, we help homeowners compare bathroom-friendly materials every day. Here’s what to know about tile, luxury vinyl (LVP/LVT), and waterproof laminate—plus where each one shines.

Why Bathroom Floors in Texas Need Extra Attention

Moisture is the big factor. Steam from hot showers, splashes around tubs, and everyday cleaning products can stress a floor that isn’t designed for wet areas. You’ll also want slip resistance, simple maintenance, and styles that play nicely with the rest of your home. If you’re considering a full bath update, our team can coordinate floors with shower walls and tile details through our shower remodeling services.

Ceramic & Porcelain Tile: The Long-Term Workhorse

Tile remains the most proven bathroom flooring for water resistance and durability. Porcelain is especially dense and less porous than ceramic, which makes it a standout for wet rooms and high-traffic spaces. With the right grout and sealer, tile stands up to steam, splashes, and frequent cleaning without warping or swelling.

What homeowners like

• Excellent water resistance and long-term durability
• Wide range of looks: marble visuals, modern concrete, wood-look planks
• Great with radiant heat systems
• Easy to sanitize

What to plan for

• Grout needs occasional sealing and cleaning
• Tile can feel cool/firm underfoot; add area rugs or radiant heat for comfort

If you’re leaning tile, this quick guide to the benefits of tile flooring is a helpful place to start, and you can see options in person in our tile & stone flooring section.

Luxury Vinyl (LVP/LVT): Waterproof, Comfortable, Stylish

Modern luxury vinyl brings waterproof construction, softer underfoot feel, and tons of design options—perfect for family bathrooms and powder rooms. Its layered build (with a rigid core, wear layer, and realistic print film) offers strong dent/scratch resistance and simple maintenance. Many homeowners pick LVP for kids’ baths or guest baths where comfort and easy cleanups matter most.

What homeowners like

• 100% waterproof planks and tiles for stress-free cleanups
• Warmer and quieter underfoot than tile
• Wood and stone visuals that pair well with any vanity style
• Budget-friendly without looking “budget”

What to plan for

• Choose the right wear layer and core (SPC/WPC) for best durability
• Use bath mats near tubs/showers to catch standing water

Curious why LVP is surging in popularity? See our rundown of the six benefits of vinyl flooring and browse options in our vinyl flooring department.

Waterproof Laminate: The Newcomer with Realistic Texture

Waterproof laminate has improved dramatically, with tight locking systems and moisture-resistant cores that outperform older laminates in splash zones. Many products also have embossed textures and beveled edges for an ultra-real wood feel—great if you want the warmth of oak or hickory visuals without the maintenance of site-finished hardwood.

What homeowners like

• Authentic wood look/feel with practical waterproofing
• Strong scratch resistance for busy bathrooms
• Usually a DIY-friendlier installation than tile

What to plan for

• Confirm the product’s “waterproof” rating and perimeter sealing requirements
• Still avoid standing water—wipe up after baths and showers

If you’re comparing options, our overview of the benefits of laminate flooring lays out where today’s waterproof laminates fit best.

Slip Resistance, Grout, and Maintenance: Small Details, Big Payoff

• Slip resistance: Look for matte finishes and texture (especially on tile) to improve footing. Many porcelain tiles list a slip rating—ask us to show you the options best suited to bathrooms.
• Grout choices: Epoxy grout resists stains and moisture better than traditional cement grout. It’s an upgrade worth considering for kids’ or guest baths.
• Expansion gaps: For vinyl and waterproof laminate, proper expansion spacing and transitions are key to long-term performance in humid rooms.
• Cleaning: Neutral-pH cleaners keep finishes looking fresh without residue. Avoid steam mops on vinyl/laminate unless the manufacturer specifically approves them.

Design Pairings That Always Work

• Spa-calm primary baths: large-format porcelain tile with subtle veining + soft, warm vanity tones
• Family/kids’ baths: LVP in a lighter oak look + bright, wipe-clean paint + fun hardware
• Powder rooms: statement patterned tile or herringbone wood-look tile + matte black or brass fixtures
• Tight spaces: plank-format tiles or LVP laid lengthwise to visually elongate the room

Which Bathroom Flooring Should You Choose?

• Choose tile if you want the most time-tested, water-ready solution with premium resale value.
• Choose LVP if comfort, warmth, and easy maintenance are top priorities for a family bath.
• Choose waterproof laminate if you love wood texture and want a realistic look with everyday practicality.

Ready to compare samples side by side? Visit our Arlington showroom to feel the difference between tile, LVP, and waterproof laminate in person. You can start browsing styles online in our tile & stone flooring and vinyl flooring sections, or bring photos of your bathroom and we’ll help you narrow it down.

If you or your family struggle with seasonal allergies, asthma, or dust sensitivity, your flooring choice matters. The right surface can trap fewer allergens, clean up faster, and help you keep indoor air quality under control. At Hilton’s Flooring, we guide Arlington homeowners through the best options for cleaner air—without sacrificing comfort or style.

What Makes Flooring “Allergy-Friendly”?

Allergy-friendly floors share a few traits: minimal dust trap points, easy day-to-day cleaning, and low emissions (from adhesives or finishes). Routine care is just as important—entry mats, consistent vacuuming, and humidity control all make a noticeable difference.

If you’re starting a larger refresh or pairing floors with a bath update, our team can coordinate materials and installation details through our shower remodeling services.

Carpet: Softer Underfoot, Smarter Choices for Allergies

Carpet gets a bad rap with allergies, but it can work when you choose the right construction and maintain it well. Short, tightly twisted fibers trap dust at the surface so your vacuum can remove it, instead of letting particles circulate in the air. Look for low- to mid-pile options with dense face weight, and pair with a quality pad.

What helps

• Low-pile, dense carpets (patterned/cut & loop or tight textures)
• Routine vacuuming with a sealed HEPA vac, and periodic hot-water extraction
• Entry mats to reduce tracked-in pollen and dust

What to consider

• Spills and pet accidents need quick cleanup to prevent odors and dander buildup
• Deep-pile or shag styles are harder to keep allergen-light

Explore styles and talk fiber types with our team in the carpet flooring showroom. For more context on when carpet makes sense, see Is Carpet the Best Choice for My Home?

Hardwood: Easy to Clean, Classic and Long-Lasting

Hardwood’s smooth surface doesn’t hold onto dust the way deeper textiles do, and regular microfiber dusting removes particles quickly. Engineered hardwood is often the better pick for Texas humidity—more stable than solid wood—while still giving you the warm, classic look that boosts resale value.

What helps

• Seamless transitions and flush vents minimize crevices where dust can settle
• Site-finished matte or satin sheens hide fine dust better than high-gloss
• Microfiber dust mops and soft-bristle attachments for routine cleaning

What to consider

• Standing water and harsh cleaners can damage finish—stick to wood-safe products
• Area rugs should be vacuumed regularly (front and back) to avoid dust pockets

Compare species, finishes, and plank widths in our hardwood flooring department.

Luxury Vinyl (LVP/LVT): Low Maintenance, Allergy-Friendly Practicality

Luxury vinyl has a sealed, nonporous surface that wipes clean in seconds—great for pollen season, pets, and busy households. It’s also quieter and warmer underfoot than tile, which many families appreciate in bedrooms and living spaces.

What helps

• Seamless or tight-locking installs reduce dust catch points
• Damp microfiber mops remove fine particles without kicking them into the air
• Waterproof construction for stress-free cleanups in high-traffic areas

What to consider

• Choose reputable lines with low-emission certifications when possible
• Use walk-off mats at entries to cut down on tracked-in debris

See wood and stone looks in our vinyl flooring section, and learn why it’s a favorite for families in Six Benefits of Vinyl Flooring

Daily Habits That Improve Indoor Air Quality (No Matter the Floor)

• Entry strategy: place sturdy, washable mats inside and outside main doors
• Vacuum schedule: 2–3x per week in high-traffic areas (use a sealed HEPA vacuum)
• Dusting: microfiber cloths/mops trap particles better than dry brooms
• Humidity: aim for 40–50% RH to reduce dust mite activity
• Filter changes: swap HVAC filters regularly (MERV rating appropriate for your system)

Carpet vs. Hardwood vs. Vinyl: Quick Allergy Comparison

• Dust/pollen control
• Hardwood: Excellent—smooth, easy to remove dust
• Vinyl: Excellent—nonporous, quick wipe-downs
• Carpet: Good with low-pile + HEPA vacuuming; best when well-maintained
• Pet dander cleanup
• Hardwood/Vinyl: Fast and thorough with microfiber mops
• Carpet: Use sealed HEPA vac + periodic extraction
• Moisture tolerance
• Vinyl: Waterproof; great for households with kids/pets
• Hardwood: Moderate; maintain finish and avoid standing water
• Carpet: Moderate; quick spill response is key

Putting It Together for Your Home

For the most allergy-friendly experience, many Arlington homeowners choose hardwood or luxury vinyl in main living areas, with low-pile carpet reserved for bedrooms where softness matters. If you prefer tile in baths or entries, its sealed surface is also excellent for dust control—see our overview of the benefits of tile flooring for ideas.

Bring your questions, photos, and priorities to our Arlington showroom and we’ll help you test samples under real light and talk through cleaning routines that fit your lifestyle. You can start browsing options online in hardwood flooring and vinyl flooring, or stop by and compare them side by side with carpet choices.

Texas homes face unique challenges when it comes to flooring. Between hot summers, humid days, and plenty of family and pet activity, not every surface holds up the same way. At Hilton’s Flooring, we’ve helped homeowners across Arlington and the DFW area choose materials that can stand up to our climate without sacrificing style. Here’s how the top flooring options compare in Texas conditions.

Hardwood in Texas Homes

Hardwood remains a classic choice thanks to its beauty and timeless appeal. In Texas, though, moisture is the factor to watch. Solid hardwood can swell or shrink with humidity, but engineered hardwood is more stable and often a better choice for our climate. With the right care, hardwood brings warmth and value that lasts for decades.

If you’re considering upgrading, our hardwood flooring showroom in Arlington has a wide range of species, from oak to hickory, so you can see firsthand how each looks and feels.

Tile & Stone

For durability, tile and stone are tough to beat. They resist moisture, stay cool underfoot, and handle heavy foot traffic with ease. That makes them ideal for kitchens, bathrooms, and entryways where spills and humidity are common. The design options are endless, from sleek porcelain to natural stone with character.

We often recommend tile to families looking for long-term reliability. Learn more in our blog on the benefits of tile flooring, or explore your options in person in our tile & stone flooring section.

Vinyl and LVP

Vinyl has quickly become one of the most popular flooring types in Texas homes. Modern luxury vinyl plank (LVP) and tile (LVT) mimic the look of wood or stone while being completely waterproof. That makes them ideal for busy families, pet owners, and anyone who wants style without constant upkeep. Vinyl is also softer underfoot compared to tile, making it a comfortable choice in living rooms and bedrooms.

In fact, our blog on the six benefits of vinyl flooring explains why so many Arlington homeowners choose it for its durability and versatility. Explore more at our vinyl flooring showroom to see the latest styles.

Carpet

Carpet remains a favorite in bedrooms and living areas for its comfort and insulation. It makes a home feel cozy, and in Texas, it can even help with energy efficiency by keeping rooms cooler. The drawback is that it doesn’t handle humidity and spills as well as other options. With regular cleaning and the right choice of fiber, carpet can still be a practical part of your home design.

Our team can walk you through samples in the carpet flooring showroom, and you can also read our blog on whether carpet is the best choice for your home.

Choosing Flooring for Texas Homes

The right flooring for your Texas home depends on your lifestyle, budget, and which rooms you’re upgrading. Hardwood brings timeless beauty, tile and stone deliver unmatched durability, vinyl offers waterproof convenience, and carpet provides comfort. Each has its place, and our team is here to help you make the right choice for your home and family.

Visit Hilton’s Flooring in Arlington to see these options in person and let our experts guide you through the best flooring for Texas heat and humidity. You can also contact us today to schedule a free consultation.

For many of us, pets are part of the family. But if you’ve ever dealt with scratches, muddy paw prints, or the occasional accident, you know flooring plays a big role in keeping your home looking its best. At Hilton’s Flooring, we’ve helped countless families across Arlington and the DFW area choose flooring that balances durability, comfort, and style — while standing up to life with pets. Here’s how the top options compare.

Carpet

Carpet is soft underfoot and gives pets a cozy place to lounge. It’s also quieter than hard surfaces, which can be a bonus if you have active dogs or cats. The downside is that carpet can absorb odors and stains, and it takes more effort to clean after accidents. Still, with the right fibers and regular care, carpet can be a comfortable choice in bedrooms and living spaces.

Our carpet flooring showroom features a wide variety of styles, and our team can recommend options designed to resist wear and tear. For cleaning advice, see our blog on how to get paint out of carpet — many of the same techniques work for pet messes.

Tile & Stone

When it comes to durability, tile & stone flooring is one of the most pet-proof choices. It’s scratch-resistant, waterproof, and extremely easy to clean. Mud, fur, or spills wipe right up without a problem. The only drawback is that tile can feel harder and cooler underfoot, which may not be as comfortable for pets that like to stretch out on the floor. Adding rugs in key spots usually solves that.

If you’d like to learn more about the advantages, check out our blog on the benefits of tile flooring.

Vinyl and LVP

Luxury vinyl plank (LVP) and tile (LVT) are increasingly popular with pet owners in Arlington. They’re waterproof, scratch-resistant, and softer than stone, which makes them easier on paws. Vinyl also comes in a wide range of wood and stone looks, so you don’t have to compromise on style. It’s a smart middle ground for families who want durability without the higher cost of tile.

Our vinyl flooring section includes waterproof and pet-friendly options that are perfect for busy households. You can also read our blog on the six benefits of vinyl flooring to see why it’s such a versatile option.

Hardwood: Beautiful but Tricky

Hardwood flooring is elegant, but pet claws and spills can cause damage if not addressed quickly. Scratches show more easily than on vinyl or tile, and water accidents can warp the planks. That said, engineered hardwood flooring is more resilient than solid hardwood and can be a good option for pet owners who are set on a natural wood look.

Finding the Right Balance

The best flooring for pets depends on your home and your lifestyle. Carpet adds comfort, tile is nearly indestructible, vinyl offers the best mix of softness and durability, and engineered hardwood gives you natural beauty with added resilience.

At Hilton’s Flooring, we’ll help you weigh the pros and cons for your specific situation. Bring your pet along to our Arlington showroom — we’ll walk you through samples and find flooring that works for the whole family. You can also contact us today to schedule a free consultation.

Thinscape WilsonArt countertops are often referenced by those in the home remodeling industry, yet some homeowners aren’t exactly sure what these unique counters are really all about. The Thinscape performance tops are distinct from every other option available on the market. These counters were expertly designed for an elegant aesthetic that makes a kitchen look and feel that much more upscale and welcoming.

All in all, the Thinscape WilsonArt countertop collection has a dozen slim, versatile, and sturdy slabs. These slabs feature on-trend materials for truly artful surfaces you are proud to have in your home. Examples of such surface materials include aged metal, planked wood, large stone, and quartz. Thinscape provides a balance of presentation, durability, functionality, and affordability. There is no need for any type of special tooling when these counters are added to your home or other space.

Countertops That Prove Resistant to Damage

Each of these unique countertop creations is resistant to water, meaning you won’t have to worry about damage from spills or other forms of moisture. Add in the fact that the Thinscape WilsonArt counters are resistant to stains and can be maintained with ease in the kitchen, and there is even more reason to upgrade your home’s counters.

A Thin Performer

Though Thinscape WilsonArt counters are thinner than some others, they are eye-popping, functional, and sleek. These thin counters are designed with performance and beauty in mind, ultimately providing your kitchen with the optimal combination of form and function. Thinscape is the happy medium between thin porcelain that looks modern yet doesn’t stand the test of time and conventional harder materials such as granite and marble that hold strong yet prove quite costly.

Flexible and Artful Countertops Suitable for Every Home

Wouldn’t it be nice if your countertops were the highlight of your kitchen, bathroom, and other parts of your home? If your current counters are outdated, unsightly, or simply no longer appeal to you and/or your family, add Thinscape WilsonArt counters to your kitchen, bathroom, or other room, and you’ll feel as though you are living in a new home. These artful counters can also be added to garage worktops and laundry rooms.

Choose the WilsonArt Thinscape design option that is ideal for your home, and you’ll be proud of your new counters’ look and function. Thinscape WilsonArt counters are available in an array of design options, one of which is sure to look fantastic in your home. From the popular stone design option to granite, wood, and marble, there’s a design for every unique kitchen, bathroom, and other room in the home in need of new countertops.

American-Made Counters

Part of what makes Thinscape counters so unique is that they are made with the highest quality craftsmanship. The materials and labor used to create these distinct counters are both from right here in the land of the free and the home of the brave. The fact that the counters are made in America means they also carry the UL GreenGuard Gold Certification. This certification is indicative of elite indoor air quality.

Domestic manufacturing is also beneficial in the context of counter production and installation as it ameliorates potential supply chain issues, ultimately ensuring your new counters are installed in accordance with the promised timetable. Add in the fact that the domestic production of Thinscape counters allows for greater control over product inventory and availability without the worry of tariffs pertaining to international trade, and there is even more reason to support the American economy by adding Thinscape counters to your home.

Easy to Clean and Maintain

Thinscape performance countertops do not require specialized cleaning solutions. Nor do these counters require highly frequent cleanings. Thinscape counters can be cleaned with relative ease, yet they don’t require a considerable amount of attention as they are resistant to impact, moisture, and scratches.

A Small Foundation With Big Appeal

Though the foundation of Thinscape counters is intentionally small and comparably thin, the diminutive build of the counters is revered as a strength. Thinscape counters perform better than other counters, retain their beauty, and hold strong years into their lifespan. These qualities are precisely why Thinscape has taken the sector by storm.

Thin countertops pair just right with modern thin cabinets, creating a whole that is greater than the sum of its parts. Fast forward a couple years into the future, and you just might find Thinscape has set the trend of kitchen and bathroom counters with a wave of new counters with thin profiles.

Contact Hiltons Flooring Today

If you suspect the time is right for new flooring, be proactive by contacting our flooring team today. You can reach Hiltons Flooring by dialing (817) 461-5189 or by completing our online contact form.

Do you need a new floor? Maybe you’re replacing something old. Maybe it’s a new construction project. Either way, good flooring options are important.

You need something that looks great, is manageable in terms of maintenance, and adds value to the home or building. These are reasonable expectations, and there are a number of flooring options that can meet all of the criteria.

One of those options is tile, and even though you know what tile is, you might be underestimating its potential. In that light, here are six reasons to choose tile flooring.

Maintenance

There’s a reason that tile has remained one of the most popular flooring choices for so many decades. It’s easy to manage. Tile is tough, doesn’t stain easily, resists water, and generally does all of the things that make life simpler. You don’t have to break your back scrubbing and fighting to keep it clean and in good condition.

Tile can withstand the common struggles of multiple pets, raising children, maintaining a social life, and living in general.

Aesthetics

Taking care of tile is easy, but that’s not the only reason so many people love it. From an aesthetic standpoint, it’s arguably the most versatile flooring you can choose.

Sure, you’ll have countless options for patterns, colors, and textures. You can get a tile that speaks to you, matches the room’s aesthetic, and really ties a visual idea together.

You can also get tiles that look nothing like tile. Modern tile is able to mimic stone flooring, enabling you to have the beauty of a marble or other stone floor without the pains of installation and maintenance.

You can also get tiles that look like wood. So if you want the finish of wood flooring with the maintenance advantages of tile, that’s another way to go. If you can envision a look for your tile, it is probably available.

Longevity

This probably won’t come as a surprise. Part of the reason that tile is so easy to maintain is that it’s tough. It doesn’t easily break or chip. As already mentioned, it’s resistant to stains and water damage.

With so much cutting in favor of tile, you can expect it to maintain a long lifespan. Because of that, the tile you install today is likely to retain its value for the rest of your life. If you ever sell the house, the tile will still be adding to its overall value.

Price 

With all of these advantages, you might expect to pay a premium for tile flooring. The opposite is true. Tile is usually not the very cheapest option available, but it’s in the lower tiers of flooring in terms of pricing.

You will pay less for tile per square foot, and yet you get premium aesthetics, longevity, and maintenance values. This is why tile is one of the best flooring investments you can make. Wood flooring might go in and out of style, but it won’t last as long as tile, and yet you can often tile a floor for less money.

Sustainability

For the environmentally conscientious among you, tile is a great choice. It has no toxic components, so if it is broken and removed from the home, it isn’t creating any hazardous waste. It can return to the natural elements quite harmlessly.

Because tile lasts so long and is so easy to install and maintain, it creates less waste than many other types of flooring.

Adding to all of that is the fact that tile is more sustainably sourced than most flooring options. Making tile has a relatively low carbon footprint, and it doesn’t require destructive mining techniques. It’s really one of your best options for sustainability.

Air Quality

Something a lot of people overlook is that tile can help improve indoor air quality. There are a couple of reasons for this.

First, tile is nonporous. That’s why it doesn’t really fret about water damage, and it’s also why molds, mildew, and bacteria all have a harder time growing in tile as opposed to other flooring options.

The other advantage of tile is the smooth surface it creates. Dust and allergens don’t get trapped in tile (like they might with carpet), so your flooring isn’t actively protecting air pollutants that you would rather do without.

It’s easy to see. Tile has a lot to offer any home or business. It’s a powerful flooring choice for a number of reasons. If you want to explore the depths of your tile flooring options or if you want to see even more possibilities beyond tile, contact Hiltons Flooring today. We’ll take you through the full range of options so that you can find the perfect floor.

Tile flooring is a type of floor made from strong and durable materials like stone, porcelain, or ceramic where the gaps are filled and sealed with grout. Grout is a powder made of materials like cement, lime, or sand, and when mixed with water, the mixture hardens.

Regardless of the type of material used, tile flooring is a popular option for homes and businesses and has actually been around for millennia. Tile has always been closely connected to ceramics and pottery, and archeological digs across the world have found tile floors in ancient Persia, China, and famous sites like Pompeii.

Tile is an extremely versatile flooring option and comes in a variety of designs and colors. While commonly used in kitchens and bathrooms, tile flooring can be a great option for any room of a home or building. It also transitions well from room to room.

At Hiltons Flooring, we love tile floors, so our team here has come up with the following list of the top four benefits of tile flooring for your next project or renovation.

Long Lasting

When installed correctly and maintained, tile flooring has a very long lifespan (in fact we discussed above that some ancient tile floors are still intact today). Tile floors are a great investment for a home or building, and they are made of high-quality materials that can hold up to the day-to-day wear and tear of life.

There is actually a tile floor rating system of Class I to Class V, with Class V being the most durable. When choosing what type of tile floor rating is needed, it’s important to discuss the area of the home or building in question. This will help an owner and contractor think through how much foot traffic and use a space will endure so the best tile option is chosen for the job. Choosing the correct class of tile flooring will have a direct result on its longevity as well.

Durable

We discussed the connection above between longevity and durability, but we cannot emphasize how strong tile flooring is. It’s made up of naturally tough material like stone and fired clay, so things like heavy foot traffic and constant activity will not wear down tile.

Tile is also highly resistant to staining, so it holds up to things like pets and children a lot better than carpet. It’s more often than not the case that if something is dropped on a tile floor, it’s going to break instead of the tile. However, tile is susceptible to cracks and breaks if something really, really heavy is dropped or if there is a corner/sharp-edge direct impact. Tile is a rigid material and does not give or absorb an impact like other materials, but it still takes a good hit to crack tile.

Water Resistant

Between the tile material itself and the grout seal, tile flooring is one of the best water-resistant options on the market. Tile flooring is not affected by water in the same way carpet, hardwood, or vinyl materials are.

There is a reason tile is so popular in areas like a kitchen and a bathroom. You can spill, splash, have muddy footprints tracked along, and mop all day long, and a tile floor will not really be phased.

When water or another liquid is spilled on a tile floor, it puddles and pools for easy cleanup. Liquid spilled on tile does not absorb or seep into anything as quickly or as much as other flooring materials either.

It is worth noting that while extremely resilient toward water and liquid, tile is not waterproof. There are actually categories that rate the tile material in terms of water absorption, so this is another area to consult a flooring expert or contractor.

Easy to Clean

Tiles’ water-resistant qualities also make tile flooring extremely easy to clean. Home and business owners who have installed tile floors often rave about how simple it is to maintain a tile floor with occasional sweeping and Swiffering.

Tile does not soak in liquid and stains like other materials, so spills and accidents are not as big of a deal on a tile floor. Many people wipe up things on a tile floor with a simple sponge or paper towel.

Serving the Arlington Community

At Hiltons Flooring, we are the premier flooring store in Arlington, Texas, and we cannot wait to help you with your next flooring project. Our team is here to make sure home and business owners have the best flooring options available. We specialize not only in tile and stone flooring but also in carpet, hardwood, laminate, and vinyl.

Our services range from flooring installation and help with financing to shower remodels and granite countertop projects as well. Call us today or get a quote or stop by our emporium in Arlington.

Choosing flooring for a home or business is a big decision, and there are a lot of options to pick from. Floor projects have factors like budget, size, appearance, durability (especially in a high traffic area), and compatibility with current features like cabinets, furniture, and painted walls. 

Laminate flooring is quickly becoming a popular choice among home and business owners alike not only because of its affordability but also because of its versatility.

We’re going to take a moment to highlight some of the main reasons customers are choosing laminate floors to meet their needs, as well as a few things to note.

Laminate Flooring 101

Laminate flooring is synthetic, meaning it is not made with a natural material like wood or stone. It’s created by heat-fusing multiple layers together, or laminating.

Laminate flooring usually includes a base of structurally sound materials such as fiberboard, particleboard, or a melamine resin core and then has an image layer on top with a protective covering to seal everything. This image layer is printed to look like an actual piece of wood, simulating a hardwood floor.

Not only does it look like hardwood, but the image layer can also be printed in a variety of different colors, so laminate flooring provides a lot of options for interior design.

Benefits of Laminate Flooring

In addition to the interior design benefits mentioned above, laminate flooring is popular for many more reasons.

Affordability

Because laminate flooring is synthetic and not actual hardwood, it is a lot faster and less expensive to produce. In turn, this makes it less expensive for the customer. People who have a small flooring budget or want to save money on a larger project prefer laminate flooring over other types because it’s extremely cost-effective.

Easy Installation

Laminate floor installation involves something called a click-and-lock system. This means that each floor panel has a set of interlocking joints that click together with another piece of the floor paneling, thus locking them into place. The benefits of this installation are that the floor is smooth with no gap. This eliminates flooring nails, screws, or glue completely and makes the installation process extremely fast.

Time is money in the world of construction, so with a fast installation, a project is looking at a lower labor cost out of the gate.

Durable

Laminate flooring holds up to wear and tear and is extremely resistant to scratches and dents. This is especially important for a floor installed in a high-traffic area or in a household or business with kids or pets.

Easy to Clean

Laminate flooring has a smooth surface with its protective top covering, so cleanup is easily done with a broom, and minimal wet cleaning is usually sufficient. Products like Swiffer even have specific options for laminate flooring.

It’s a very sanitary flooring option as well, as it does not allow for dust to be trapped, and dirt can be wiped right up. Laminate flooring is also a great choice for those with allergies.

Things of Note

While the most obvious advantages of laminate flooring are its low price point, simple upkeep, and variety of design options, there are some things to note when comparing it to other floor types:

• While it is water-resistant, laminate floors are not waterproof (so checking with the manufacturer or specifications is important when deciding whether or not to install laminate floors in a high humidity or high moisture area).
• Due to the nature of their design, laminate floors cannot be renovated. If a panel is damaged, it needs to be fully replaced (unlike with hardwood where a panel can be sanded down and refinished).
• Because laminate flooring is synthetic, there is a level of off-gassing that occurs during installation (customers might notice a smell during and for a short time after installing a laminate floor).

There are pros and cons to any type of flooring material, but it all comes down to choosing the right kind of floor for your specific project.

We Know a Thing or Two About Floors

At Hilton’s Flooring, we specialize in repairing and installing laminate flooring along with carpet, hardwood, tile, stone, and vinyl. If you have a home or business in the Dallas–Fort Worth Metroplex, we’re here to help with your next flooring project, and we have an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau. Contact us today to speak with someone about your flooring needs and to receive a quote.

In addition, we also know a thing or two about bathrooms and kitchens and have a great selection of offerings for shower tile installation and granite countertops. You can view our selections online or visit our showroom located in Arlington.

Tile flooring is an excellent choice for your home. It is durable and affordable, and it withstands regular wear and tear without signs of aging. You can use tile for any room in your house, but it is especially good for high-moisture rooms that often get wet, such as bathrooms, laundry rooms, kitchens, and basements.

If you decide to install tile flooring, you have two options: do it yourself or hire professionals who will do it for you. 

How Long Does It Take to Install Tile Floors?

It is hard to answer this question because it depends on several factors. These factors are the size of the room, the quality and type of material, and your skill level. Experts say that it will take about 16 hours for a complete beginner to install tile flooring in an average room. If you have some previous experience and understanding of how to do it, the installation will take you about 12 hours. Professionals with years of experience will do it much faster — in less than 10 hours.

How Can You Make the Process of Laying Tile Flooring Faster?

You can make the process of installing tile floors faster and easier by trusting a professional. Without industry knowledge, all of the following factors may add considerable time to your tile floor installation.

First, professionals will need to make sure that the surface is properly prepared. They need to know your existing subfloor and adjoining floor height. This will help them understand and decide which underlayment they should use. 

You can expedite the process of installing your tile by planning the layout of your design before you start. Even if you’re not sure exactly what you want, going to a professional with an idea of what you want can help speed up the process. However, if you’re just not sure, your flooring contractors will be able to help you through the process.

There are also certain tools professionals will use in order to get your tile job done faster. Here is a list of them:

• Tile wet saw. This is a great tool that can cut different types of tile, including ceramic, glass, porcelain, and stone. Even though a tile wet saw may look intimidating for those who have never used it before, it is actually a fast, simple, and efficient tool for tiling. 
• Grout float. Resembling a trowel, a grout float is made with hard rubber with a handle on one side, which allows a flooring contractor to press grout into the joints between tiles quickly and efficiently. There is no other tool that can do this job as well.
• Notched trowel. This tool is used for spreading and combing the adhesive before the tile is laid into place. It not only makes the whole process easier but also helps to lay the tile evenly.
• Nippers. These are used to make irregular cuts like semicircles, for example. The nippers work like a fingernail trimmer. They nibble away the tile with the help of biting jaws and plier-like handles. 
• Chalk line. Straight lines are important in tiling, and one of the best and quickest ways of laying down a straight line is using a chalk line.
• Rubber mallet. This tool is for tapping tiles into place. Some people decide to use a regular hammer wrapped in something soft, but this is less effective. 

Hiltons Flooring — Discount Tile Flooring at Incredible Prices in Arlington, TX

Doing the tiling yourself is possible, but may not be as easy and quick as you think. Sometimes, it is better to leave it to professionals.

If you live in Arlington, TX, or any other nearby area, and you are looking for experts who do tile flooring professionally, then contact Hiltons Flooring. At Hiltons Flooring, we provide exceptional and affordable flooring options and do everything possible to ensure you get the right tile flooring. Our team consists of professional installers with years of experience who work with all types of tiles. If you have any questions, or you want to know more about the options we offer, feel free to give us a call at (817) 461-5189 or contact us online.