A porch is of the essence because it is a gathering place for most families. It must be well designed since it is where many make most of their best memories. Hence, the flooring you choose for outdoor use is crucial as it should bring off a tranquil scenery that aesthetically complements your home.
So, what is the best floor for your porch?
You should contemplate various aspects before choosing the flooring for your porch. For instance, the purpose of the porch, weather, and your budget. There are numerous flooring options you can use for your porch. The ideal flooring is grounded on durability and personal preferences, yet cypress, composite wood, and pressure-treated pine are the most recommendable ones.
Some people cannot live in houses without porches because, to them, these are the perfect spots to entertain their guests, relax, and even enjoy dinner with family. In addition, some use porches as points for placing their live plants, whereas to others, it is where children can play safely.
I will expound on what you should know before choosing a floor for your porch. There are many flooring options, for instance, tiles, bricks, wood, and concrete. Can you use rugs or carpets on your porch? Well, let’s find out.
What Should I Consider When Choosing A Porch Floor?
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Everyone wants an aesthetically-pleasing porch. But this does not mean you should blindly copy the flooring of a porch you found on Pinterest. What works for other people may not work for you; you should always value durability over decorative elements.
Before selecting a porch floor, ask yourself the amount of maintenance you are willing to do. Some options need higher maintenance than others. So, are you willing to constantly pay someone to paint or replace your floor because it got permanently stained? I think not.
The second important factor is the performance of the floor per your needs. For example, will your children get damaged when they fall on the floor while playing? Alternatively, will it get damaged in freezing or hot weather? Again, there are specific flooring options with superior performance ideal for most people.
The next factor is the price. You should be able to afford the porch flooring you want. I do not mean you should go for cheap floors; it is better to save up and build something that will serve you for a long time.
Finally, it would be best to consider a porch floor that is pleasing to the eye. Choose a utilitarian, inviting, and relaxing color because the goal is to make your home look more beautiful.
What is the Best Flooring for A Porch?
Most people prefer wooden floors or vinyl for their porch. If you prefer wooden floors, remember to go for those that can withstand damage and not rot quickly. Always do your research or ask for professional help to determine if the material you intend to use carries an FSC seal of approval.
What Are the Most Sustainable Wood Choices for Porch Flooring?
Pressure-Treated Pine
It is the most suitable material for porch flooring because it is softwood that lasts long. It also repels pests and resists rot. Additionally, it is available in the market, so you will not experience difficulty getting it.
However, even though it is a popular option, some people prefer it only for framing and support but not flooring purposes. Additionally, it may require high maintenance for people living in hot places because its color easily fades from UV rays.
Today composite decks are taking over the market, but I recommend this for your porch floor because it is natural, easily repairable, affordable, versatile, and durable.
Composite Wood
Wood-Polymer composite has a natural look and is long-lasting. It might be the best option for many since it is pretty easy to maintain. It is washed using soap and water.
This flooring is also pest resistant, stain-resistant, weather-resistant and comes in various colors. It does not rot yet; it is slippery and can sag. It may also fail to resist mold.
Cypress
Cypress is also an excellent choice for an outdoor deck because it is pest and rot-resistant. It is also environmentally friendly, affordable, and aesthetically pleasing. In addition, it does not need to be treated because it comes with natural durability. However, it tends to discolor over time and may require you to apply a sealant to prevent it from cracking.
Is Vinyl Ideal For Outdoor Use?
Since vinyl is waterproof, it can be a good choice for your porch floor, especially if you live in a location where it is constantly raining. Vinyl is also resistant to mold, stains, and vermin.
It is perfect for someone on a tight budget as it is priced fairly, is easy to maintain, and is UV-treated.
Even so, it has its downfalls since it can swell depending on temperature. It can also fade if it is often exposed to direct sunlight.
Can I Use Tiles, Bricks, and Concrete For My Porch Flooring?
Most people use tiles for indoor flooring, yet they are also used for porch flooring. Still, this is not a common option, given that it is difficult and time-consuming to cut and grout tiles. Additionally, they are slick when wet, and one can fall and severely injure themselves. So, if you have children, you should not opt for this.
Brick porch flooring is quite decorative yet expensive. Moreover, it lasts long in specific locations but is susceptible to cracking and chipping in extremely cold weather.
Concrete shares similar attributes to bricks, and it is less appealing than all other outdoor flooring options. Be as it may, if this is your preference, go for it as you can customize the color and pattern on your floor.
Some people may also opt for natural stone porch flooring, which is environmentally friendly, except it is accident-prone, thus imperfect for elderly individuals and toddlers.
Can I Use an Outdoor Carpet on My Porch?
It is okay to use a carpet on your porch; the good news is that most outdoor carpets are weather resistant. While choosing a carpet, ensure it is comfortable and perfectly fits your porch.
A rug or carpet serves the purpose of protecting your porch floor from dirt and stains. Your carpet might wear and tear easily, but it is cheaper to replace a carpet than a floor.
Alternatively, you can opt for artificial grass on your porch; this is comfortable since it is soft to walk on and does not retain heat. Carpets and artificial grass are ideal for enclosed porches instead of open ones.
Is it Possible to Make My Porch Floor Waterproof?
There are certain flooring options like tiles, bricks, concrete, and vinyl that are waterproof. Yet, can you make your wooden outdoor floors waterproof?
Most wooden floors tend to rot over time, but this can be evaded if well treated. Similarly, you can make your floors waterproof by applying Tung oil or ling seed- this is done using a paintbrush, after which you give it time to dry before wiping your floors clean.
Finally, make sure to burnish the floor using fine-grit sandpaper to get a professional finish.
In closing, I hope this piece will help you choose the best flooring for your porch. Like the inside of your house, your porch also needs to be well decorated because it is also part of your home.
Remember, the perfect flooring for your porch relies on your needs, budget, and environment.
