What flooring to choose when you have pets?

Every pet owner is well aware that living with a pet is not only a lot of fun and enjoyment, but also presents certain challenges when it comes to keeping the house clean. Pets, whether they are energetic dogs, curious cats or agile rodents, have their own specific needs and behaviours, which can influence the choice of finishing materials in the home. One of the most important elements is the floor - it is the one that is exposed to claws, fur, stains or mud from the yard every day.

How do you find a solution that won't be intimidated even when you come back from a long walk in the woods with your dog? Find out what to look out for and how to choose a floor material to make it durable and easy to care for! 

Choosing a floor for a home with pets requires consideration of several key features:

Pets, especially those that are larger, heavier or more active, can scratch the floor surface. Claws, hard toys or intense play can cause minor damage. The ideal floor should be made of materials that are resistant to scratching, scuffing and other mechanical damage.

Daily life with pets involves the presence of hair, mud, water, food particles or other stains. The floor in such a home needs to be easy to keep clean. Smooth, non-porous materials that do not absorb stains and have a surface that allows dirt to be removed quickly and easily without the need for harsh chemicals are best.

Moisture is an everyday occurrence in homes with pets - wet paws, spilled water near bowls, a soaked coat after a walk in the rain or minor accidents related to the pet's age or health. The floor should be waterproof to prevent swelling and other damage.

A floor that is too slippery can pose a serious danger to pets, whether they are older pets with limited mobility or young pets who are bursting with energy. Running or jumping on such a surface can cause injuries. It is therefore advisable to choose a material that will provide comfort and safety even during dynamic play. 

Although daily cleanliness is essential, there are times when maintaining perfect tidiness in a home with pets can be a challenge. That's why it's a good idea to choose a floor with a pattern that hides small stains, hairs or paw prints - so your home looks tidy and aesthetically pleasing even at the most demanding moments. Decors with small patterns inspired by concrete, natural marble or granite divert attention and hide any imperfections. Choose neutral shades such as grey, beige or earth tones. You can also consider the colour of your pet's coat - a floor that matches the colour of your pet's coat can also help to hide visible hairs, which is particularly useful for shedding breeds.

Discover all the decors for special tasks!

The aforementioned issues show how high the requirements you should have for the material from which the floor will be made. Quartz surface, large ceramic slab and acrylic solid surface all fulfil the criteria. Each of these options is characterised by its resistance to scratches, stains and moisture, making it a great choice when pets are present. For care, all you need is a soft cloth and a mild detergent, so there is no need for harsh chemicals. This solution is not only convenient, but also safe for pets that come into direct contact with the floor.

Quartz surface is synonymous with durability and resilience - its hardness and durability make it perfectly able to cope with scratches, loads or stains. It is a very hygienic material that is easy to keep clean. 

Large ceramic slab is a material designed for the most demanding application conditions. It can easily cope with extreme temperatures - both very high and low - and is resistant to moisture, fire, heavy traffic and UV radiation. If it can cope with the demands of railway stations, airports or even shipbuilding, you can be sure it will be perfect for a home with four-legged friends. 

Acrylic solid surface, on the other hand, stands out because it is warmer and more pleasant to the touch. It is therefore ideal for rooms in which pet beds are to be placed. Its surface is scratch-resistant and easy to clean, and can be quickly restored in the event of minor damage.

Choosing the right flooring for a home with pets is an investment in durability, aesthetics and comfort for both homeowners and their pets. For added functionality and aesthetics, the same material can be used as a wall covering where you plan to place a pet bed, bowls or scratching post. This also protects the wall from dirt, damp or accidental damage, while creating a cohesive and harmonious interior design. 

Check also: Floors made of quartz surface, acrylic solid surface and large ceramic slabs