by Sara A Broers

Created on: June 12, 2008   Last Updated: June 18, 2008

Relaxing, outdoorsy, and natural are all trends within the flooring industry today. Carpet, hardwood, laminate, ceramic tile, and rugs are all options available. Earth tones along with stone are some of the most popular choices. You are probably pondering as to how each of these flooring options can relate to an outdoorsy feeling, but in the selection of product available today, this can be done!

Hardwood is very original and will provide your home with a warm feeling. The warmth and look will pull you in. By appreciating the value of a rare, slow growing wood there is beauty that only the wood species can show. Many hard woods sport knots and natural streaks that enhance their rustic beauty. Through hardwood,a true outdoorsy feeling can be given. You will feel as though you are living in a cabin all year long. For families with pets and children, hardwood may not be the flooring of choice. Hardwood will show scratches, but this can also enhance the beauty of the chosen wood species.

Laminate flooring is a great product for families. This flooring has a thin, tough layer over the core board. This product provides a great outdoorsy feeling through the "look" of hardwood. The actual laminate is a thin layer of high pressure melamine with aluminum oxide. Laminate flooring will not scratch and can be placed in many rooms. Bathrooms are usually not a room of choice, due to the high moisture content. A lot of times laminate flooring can be placed right on over the existing flooring. This way any additional labor costs can be avoided due to product removal. If you are a do it yourselfer, laminate may be a great product for you. The floor is floating. No staples, no nails; therefore, no squeaks.

Ceramic tile can provide so much fun within the home decorating field. There are so many ceramic choices, grout choices, and colors that fall from every end of the rainbow. Stone, brick, and anything with an outdoor feeling are welcome in most of our homes. One drawback with a ceramic tile floor in the kitchen is the fact that if you drop a glass bowl, you will be guaranteed to be sweeping up numerous glass pieces. Out of the flooring options available, ceramic tile can provide the most choices. The fact that tile is a natural product, sells itself. Ceramic tile can fulfill your need to jump into the "green" zone.

One of the most unique and versatile products available now is a rug. These are available in several sizes and shapes. Rug binding, with a "natural" feel, can give

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