The Best Flooring Options For Colder Weather
05/12/2023
Hey there, ready to pick out some new flooring? If cold weather is right around the corner in your neck of the woods, you'll want to consider materials that can stand up to lower temperatures. After all, the last thing you need is cracked or warped floorboards after the first freeze. When Jack Frost comes knocking, the flooring options that will keep your toes the toastiest are stone, tile, vinyl, and laminate.
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Stone and tile are naturally resistant to temperature changes and won't expand or contract. Vinyl and laminate are durable, low-maintenance, and designed for high-traffic, high-moisture areas like kitchens and entryways. Forget about hardwoods or carpet, those will only cause you grief once the mercury starts dropping. This winter, make the smart choice and invest in flooring built to last. Your floors, and your feet, will thank you.
Porcelain Tile Stands Up to Winter's Wrath
Porcelain tile is a fantastic choice for cold weather climates. This durable, low-maintenance flooring can handle anything winter throws at it.
Resists Water and Stains
Porcelain tile is virtually non-porous, so it won’t absorb water, mud, salt or stains. Snow, slush and ice melt right off its surface. Spills and splatters wipe up easily with a damp cloth. No need to worry about water damage or stubborn stains with porcelain tile.
Withstands Extreme Temperatures
Porcelain tile is fired at an extremely high temperature, so it can tolerate extreme heat as well as extreme cold without cracking. Its surface won’t get too hot in summer or too cold in winter. This makes it ideal for entryways, mudrooms and bathrooms.
Low Maintenance but High Style
Porcelain tile requires minimal upkeep to keep looking new. Just sweep regularly and damp mop occasionally. It won’t fade, scratch or dent easily and its color goes all the way through the tile. Porcelain tile comes in a variety of styles, textures and price points to suit any decor. Choose from stone, wood or patterned looks.
Long-Lasting and Environmentally Friendly
Porcelain tile is very durable and long-lasting. Properly installed, it can last for decades. It’s also eco-friendly since it’s made from natural materials and fully recyclable.
For beauty and performance, porcelain tile is a winner in colder climates. Its water resistance, temperature tolerance, low maintenance and style make it a perfect choice for flooring that stands up to winter.
Ceramic Tile Can Crack in Colder Temps
Ceramic tile can be a great choice for flooring, but in colder climates it may not be the most practical option. Ceramic tile is made from clay that is fired in a kiln, making it durable but also rigid. This lack of flexibility means it can crack in freezing temperatures or when the foundation of your home shifts with the cold.
To avoid damage, choose a tile rated for residential use and suitable for installation in your area. Porcelain tile is a good pick since it’s less porous than regular ceramic tile. Either way, the tile and subfloor should be allowed to acclimate to room temperature before installation.
Once installed, there are a few things you can do to help prevent cracks in the winter:
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Control the indoor temperature. Keep the thermostat set to the same temperature day and night to avoid sudden changes that could cause tile to expand and contract.
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Add insulation. Additional insulation, especially in the basement and attic, will help moderate temperature swings in the home.
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Seal grout lines. Apply a sealant to grout lines to prevent water from seeping under tiles where it could freeze and cause damage. Re-seal grout every few years.
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Consider underfloor heating. Radiant heating systems installed under tile floors can keep the surface temperature consistent and prevent freezing.
With the proper precautions taken, ceramic or porcelain tile can work well and last for years even in cold weather. But for worry-free flooring in frigid climates, you may want to consider more forgiving options like luxury vinyl, laminate, or wood.
Why GVT Tile Is the Best Flooring for Frigid Weather
GVT Tile Is the Best Flooring for Frigid Weather. When the temperatures start dropping, the last thing you want is a cold floor chilling you to the bone. That’s why glazed vitrified tile (GVT) is the best flooring option for colder climates.
GVT tile is made of clay that’s been heated to extremely high temperatures, making it virtually nonporous. This means no cold air can seep through, keeping your floors cozy even on the chilliest days. The glazed finish also helps by providing an extra protective barrier. Unlike natural stone or wood, GVT won’t contract or expand with changes in humidity, so you’ll never have to worry about cracked or warped tiles in the winter.
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GVT is naturally slip-resistant, providing extra traction when entering from snow or rain. You’ll feel secure walking across GVT floors in wool socks or bare feet.
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GVT tile is also naturally stain- and water-resistant. Any snow, salt, or mud tracked in will wipe right off without damage or staining.
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GVT can be installed over radiant heating systems for even more warmth. The heat will spread evenly across the floor, with no cold spots.
While GVT may cost slightly more upfront compared to some other flooring types, its durability and performance in cold weather make it a worthwhile investment. You’ll enjoy cozy floors for decades to come with virtually no maintenance required. For the most comfortable floors in frigid temperatures, GVT tile is the best option to consider. Your feet will thank you!
Conclusion
As you can see, when the temperature drops, the flooring you choose matters. Hardwoods may be beautiful but tend to feel chilly under bare feet. Tile and stone look sleek but don't insulate well. If staying cozy is a priority, carpet, vinyl and laminate are your best options. They'll keep the heat in and the cold out.
So don't settle for what you think you're stuck with. There are warm, wallet-friendly flooring choices for any style or space. Do some research and find what works for you. When the snow is piled up outside but your floors feel toasty warm inside, you'll be glad you took the time to make the right choice for your climate. Staying comfortable in your own home is worth it.
