New flooring ideas?

[airmide_m]

We are looking to buy a house that has some really hideous carpets. So I'm trying to learn about flooring options. We *love* the hardwood look, but I'm too much of a tree hugger to buy new hardwoods. We hate carpets, especially because we both have allergies.

So far I've heard that pergo can be great. But I wonder how toxic it is, and I've heard that it can not wear well especially with water. Also it cheapens the look of the house and detracts from resale value.

Cork is still from Oak's just having their bark ripped off over and over. I'm not so sure torturing trees is better than just killing them, so I think that's out.

Bamboo could be ideal. But I've heard it can be expensive and not wear well at all.


Does anyone have any ideas on these or other options? Thanks!

[bigteamug]

linoleum - REAL linoleum. very green, very good for allergies (esp the sheet stuff as it has no seams for dirt to hide in) and comes in so many cool patterns and colors now:

http://www.forboflooringna.com/default.aspx?menuid=850

I esp like it when the edges are coved - run up the wall a little with a curve at the corner. Very pretty and easy to clean. Not like vinyl with all those awful, awful depressions to attract dirt. If you should be in doubt, it used to be pretty common for old houses to have lino in the living and or dining. Usually in a neutral check (like brown and black).

Another option is to make your own floor cloths - painted canvas sealed with wood floor finish - wipes clean like a floor, you can customize the colors. great for dining areas.

[airmide_m]

Hm, that does look pretty interesting! What about concrete? My husband's boss suggested concrete and I've been looking at them. Some are really beautiful!

[rcr]

Originally Posted by airmide_m

Cork is still from Oak's just having their bark ripped off over and over. I'm not so sure torturing trees is better than just killing them, so I think that's out.

I did not know this, however, we went with cork, and I thought it was green (I did not do too much research, and I thought DH had). When DH went to install it, we found out that it needed 3 coats of varnish. Our house smelled for weeks. ugh. It is really lovely and seems to be wearing well though, although I don't know that it would be my choice had I done more research about the installation of it.