Home improvement: take a stand

Choosing the right flooring is one of the most expensive decorating decisions you will ever have to make. You need to think about maintenance, traffic and durability, as well as the look and the feel, and how it will co-ordinate with everything else. Here, we take a look at the pros and cons of different types of flooring.

Floorboards

They never go out of fashion, as you can change the look of a room with rugs or even giant floor-stickers. Warm to walk on, but beware if you live in a flat or want to have them upstairs – they are noisy. If yours aren't up to scratch, consider painting them. Good for asthmatics who can't cope with dust, and families with small children as they are easy to clean.

Carpet

Carpets and their underlays are often made of synthetic material. But they are easy to lay, they keep the noise down and they're warm – and if your floors aren't completely even, they can cover up a multitude of bumpy sins. Stripes are fashionable now (www.alternativeflooring.com; 01264 335 111) and, if you have plain walls and sofas, they are a good way to add a bit of wow to a room. Visit www.funonthefloor.com for details on different piles, cleaning tips and local fitters.

Natural

This usually means seagrass, jute, sisal or coir. The colours tend to be neutral but the differences are in the weave and feel. Seagrass can be hard to clean, and coir can feel hard underfoot. Sisal is usually regarded as the softest and can work well in a bedroom. Visit www.uniquecarpets.com for tips on cleaning specific stains.

Rubber

Surprisingly practical, as it's easy to clean, very hard-wearing and comfy to walk on – in fact, perfect for bathrooms and kitchens. It's also good for stairs, as it's non-slip. Environmentally friendly, too. Dalsouple (see www.dalsouple.com; 01278 727 733) has more than 80 colours and various finishes, so you should find something to suit even the most tricky of colour-schemes. Prices start at £65 per square metre for supply and fit.

Leather

It's expensive – around £275 per sqm to supply and fit – but it's warm and surprisingly durable and, as it develops a patina, it will improve with age. However, it's not suitable with underfloor heating. Visit www.almahome.co.uk (020-7439 0925) for ideas.

Laminate

No. Just no. It can knock thousands off the value of your house.