In a busy family home, your flooring works harder than almost any other surface. From muddy footprints to spilled drinks, it needs to be durable, safe, and easy to maintain — all while looking great.
At Buildaway, we’ve fitted hundreds of floors across London, Kent, and Essex. In this guide, we’ll help you choose the best flooring options for homes with children, pets, and non-stop traffic.
1. Luxury Vinyl Tile (LVT)
Luxury Vinyl Tile is one of the most popular choices for family homes in the UK. It mimics the look of wood or stone while offering incredible durability and water resistance.
- Scratch-resistant surface ideal for pets and kids
- Fully waterproof, perfect for kitchens and hallways
- Soft and quiet underfoot
- Easy to clean and maintain
LVT installation is quick and flexible, making it ideal for both new builds and refurbishments. At Buildaway, we offer professional fitting and underfloor prep to ensure long-lasting results.
2. Engineered Wood Flooring
Engineered wood offers the beauty of natural timber with added stability. It’s more resistant to warping than solid wood, which makes it suitable for family spaces.
- Authentic wood look and feel
- Suitable for underfloor heating
- More stable than solid hardwood
- Can be refinished when worn
If you want warmth and elegance without the upkeep of traditional wood, engineered flooring is an excellent investment.
3. Laminate Flooring
Laminate flooring remains a reliable and cost-effective option for busy homes. Modern laminates are far more durable than older versions and come in a wide range of finishes.
- Budget-friendly with stylish designs
- Scratch and stain resistant
- Easy DIY-friendly click-lock installation
- Low maintenance
For families on a tighter budget, professional laminate flooring installation can provide a quick transformation with long-lasting performance.
4. Tile Flooring
Ceramic or porcelain tiles are extremely durable and ideal for high-traffic areas like kitchens, hallways, and bathrooms. They’re especially useful in homes with pets or frequent muddy shoes.
- Waterproof and easy to clean
- Won’t scratch or dent
- Works with underfloor heating
- Wide range of sizes and styles
Buildaway’s tiling experts can help you choose non-slip tiles for added safety, especially in areas used by children or elderly family members.
5. Vinyl Sheet Flooring
Vinyl sheet is an affordable, waterproof, and easy-clean solution for utility rooms, playrooms, and rental properties.
- Great value for money
- Soft underfoot and quiet
- Available in modern, stylish designs
- Seamless finish helps prevent moisture issues
While not as luxurious as LVT or wood, sheet vinyl remains a practical choice for high-use zones in the home.
Choosing the Right Flooring for Your Family
When selecting flooring for a family home, think beyond style. Consider how much foot traffic you get, what kind of messes are typical, and how much time you want to spend on cleaning.
At Buildaway, we provide expert advice on flooring durability, maintenance, and suitability — and we always install to the highest standard, ensuring your floors last for years to come.