Flooring Options for Your Remodel: What Spokane & North Idaho Homeowners Need to Know
When you’re remodeling your home, few choices impact the look, feel, and functionality of a space more than the flooring beneath your feet.
At The Building Company, we walk Spokane and North Idaho homeowners through flooring options every day — helping them balance aesthetics, durability, budget, and lifestyle. Here's a breakdown of the most popular flooring materials, what they cost, and where they work best in real-world remodels.
🪵 1. Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP)
Cost: $3–$6/sf (material), $8–$12/sf installed
LVP has taken over the flooring market in recent years — and for good reason. It combines realistic wood or stone looks with serious durability and water resistance.
Pros:
- Waterproof options available
- Kid- and pet-friendly
- Wide range of styles and textures
- Lower cost than hardwood
Ideal for: Kitchens, bathrooms, basements, and high-traffic areas
Why clients love it: It looks like real wood without the fuss — and holds up in homes with dogs, muddy boots, and snowmelt.
🌲 2. Engineered Hardwood
Cost: $6–$10/sf (material), $12–$18/sf installed
Engineered hardwood provides the real-wood feel with more stability than traditional hardwood — especially helpful in homes with temperature and humidity swings.
Pros:
- Real wood veneer over stable plywood base
- More moisture-resistant than solid hardwood
- Can sometimes be refinished (depending on thickness)
Cons:
- Still not ideal for wet zones
- Higher cost than LVP
- Finish and quality vary widely
Ideal for: Living rooms, dining rooms, and master suites
Why clients choose it: Great for homes that want warm, natural wood tones with fewer concerns about gapping or cupping.
🪨 3. Tile (Porcelain or Ceramic)
Cost: $4–$15/sf (material), $12–$25/sf installed
Tile remains a go-to for bathrooms, laundry rooms, and mudrooms — anywhere water might be an issue.
Pros:
- Waterproof
- Huge variety of styles
- Durable under heavy use
Cons:
- Cold and hard underfoot
- Grout maintenance over time
- Higher labor cost to install
Ideal for: Bathrooms, entries, laundry rooms
Why homeowners love it: For custom showers and sleek, clean floors — especially when paired with radiant heat.
🧺 4. Carpet
Cost: $2–$7/sf (material), $6–$11/sf installed
Carpet still has a place — especially in bedrooms and basements where softness and warmth matter most.
Pros:
- Soft and quiet
- Warm underfoot
- Lower upfront cost
Cons:
- Stains easily
- Holds allergens
- Needs replacing sooner than other options
Ideal for: Bedrooms, bonus rooms, finished basements
Why people choose it: It’s cozy, budget-friendly, and easy to install quickly.
🔨 Why Flooring Costs Vary So Widely
We often hear clients say, “I saw this flooring for $2.99 at the store — why is it more in my estimate?” Here’s why pricing fluctuates:
- Subfloor prep: Uneven or damaged subfloors require extra labor or materials
- Removal/disposal: Tearing out old tile, carpet, or vinyl adds time and dump fees
- Stairs & transitions: Extra details like stair treads or unusual floor plans increase install cost
- Material grade: Not all LVP or hardwood is equal — wear layers, thickness, and click-lock systems all impact longevity
We always walk you through what’s included and what hidden costs to avoid — before you commit.
🎯 So… What’s the Best Flooring?
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. It depends on your home’s layout, your lifestyle, and your long-term goals.
We typically help clients choose different floors for different zones, like:
- LVP in main living areas
- Tile in baths and laundry
- Carpet in bedrooms
- Engineered wood in dining or flex spaces
And we work closely with our flooring partners to ensure availability, durability, and value — not just trendiness.
Let’s Talk About What Works for Your Remodel
Whether you’re overhauling a single room or doing a whole-home update, flooring is a major decision — and one you’ll live with every single day. We’re here to help you make the right call for your home and budget.
📱 Call or text:509-890-0222
📧 Email: info@pnwbuild.com
The Building Company
is a proud member of the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) and the National Association of the Remodeling Industry (NARI), reflecting our commitment to craftsmanship, communication, and ongoing education.
