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.
