Picking the color of the floors for your house can be a challenging task when you consider all the possibilities. Most types of flooring last a minimum of 7-8 years while styles and furniture may have a quicker turn around. No matter which flooring type you purchase for your new home in New Braunfels--carpet, wood, tile, etc.--you have to decide a color or a shade. Utilize the following tips to help make a better choice.

1.Lighten It

Light color floors are great for brightening up a room. In most homes, light color or neutral beige is used to increase the light within the house, but that should not be the only consideration when determining a floor covering. In most situations, if you have a small room or a low ceiling, a light colored floor is recommended in order to give it an open feeling. If you have a larger room with little natural light, again a light colored flooring is recommended to lighten up the room. On the other hand, if high traffic or pets and children are expected to be an issue, you may want to stay away from light colors except in the case of a light, natural colored wood floor where dents, scratches, and dust are less likely to show. 

2.Darken It

In contrast to the light flooring rules, dark flooring is great to make large rooms feel cozy and warm. They are also great for high traffic areas such as hallways. You can get away with using a darker carpet in a smaller room so long as it has a lot of natural light, but be aware that fading could become an issue. It’s worth noting that dark and black colors go well with the contemporary look and for a home office. 

3.Contrast or Compliment It

The question of whether furniture and walls should contrast or compliment the flooring can be answered fairly simply. Colors that contrast, or are opposite one another on the color wheel, generally give a room an exciting or entertainment atmosphere. Colors that compliment, or are next to each other on the color wheel, give a room a relaxing feel. 

As to wood floors, furniture should not be the same type of wood as the floor. Darker wood floors draw more attention, so if you want the focus to be on another part of the room, a lighter floor is suggested. 

4.Sample It

Before you decide on any type or color of flooring, get samples and bring them home. Lay them in different areas and at different times of the day and night. Colors rarely look the same in the store are they do in the home and what we imagine in our mind, doesn’t always look as good in real life. Take several days to evaluate your options. Even if you are not an interior designer, many times your gut will lead you in the right direction. 

If you’re planning to build or buy a new home in New Braunfels, come see our staff at Scott Felder Homes. We can help you pick the right flooring for your new home and lifestyle.