If you're like me, you've probably got a busy home life with kids and/or animals constantly running around and making messes. I don't think a day goes by when something isn't getting spilled on, jumped on, or turned into a fort.
When our dog Koburn was still alive, he was notorious for getting into the stream behind our old house and coming in with muddy paws. These things are just a part of life for most of us but can bring added frustration when you're trying to keep your home presentable and looking a certain way.
That's why it's so important for your home to support the lifestyle you have and can withstand your family's daily activities. Here are some great options to consider when choosing materials and finishes for your home that stand up well to kids and pets…
High-Quality, Low Maintenance Flooring
Our new house has porcelain tile in areas of our main floor, and after living with it for almost 9 months, it's definitely a material that can stand up well to kids and pets.
Porcelain tile is very durable, easy to clean, low maintenance, and water and stain-resistant. Those benefits are great for any household, and now that we have a pool and wet feet are coming in and out, it's given me another reason to consider it when we do our first-floor remodel.
Luxury vinyl tile or planks, also known as LVP or LVT, are another material gaining popularity due to its durable and water-resistant benefits. It is a faster and less messy installation than hardwood floors or tile, and you can still get a beautiful wood look.
We chose LVP in our City Farm House project since it's a rental property and will hold up well over time. A key consideration is to make sure you repair any dips or issues in your subfloor as this material will separate over time if those issues are not corrected before it's installed.
Performance Fabric for Couches and Chairs
Couches and chairs are the pieces of furniture that get the most worn out over time, so spending a little extra on a fabric that holds up well is worth it. Performance fabrics with stain and water resistance characteristics are easy to clean and hold up well to kids and animals.
Polyester is a very popular performance fabric because it resists wrinkling, stretching, and pilling and is great for high-traffic zones.
Indoor/Outdoor fabrics are also fantastic performers in high-traffic areas because they resist fading and are easy to clean. Fabrics that are made with Nylon also offer increased protection from mold and mildew. No matter what fabric you select, paying attention to the rub count (the higher the count, the better) will ensure the fabric won't pill over time.
Durable Materials & Finishes for Daily Surfaces
Quartz countertops in kitchens and bathrooms have remained the top material to use in those spaces for many years because they are both durable and beautiful. These surfaces take the brunt of most spills, so being stain-resistant and easy to clean makes them a clear winner.
While inexpensive furnishings have their time and place, a quality piece of furniture that is built to last and can be refinished or repurposed will usually hold up better to daily life. There is no substitute for workmanship, and it is worth it in the long run.
When selecting paint, the paint finish can be just as important as the color to ensure the room remains beautiful over the years. The higher the sheen, the more durable and wipeable it is. Choosing a paint sheen that appropriately matches the use of the room will ensure it holds up well over time.
Having a home that balances both function and beauty is attainable even with active kids and pets. It's about knowing how you live and selecting materials that work with your life instead of against it.
If you're ready for a home that supports everyday life (even when it gets messy), I would be honored to help. Reach out, and let's chat!
Warmly,
Carrie
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