Floors That Inspire Every Step

Moderate cost: $6–12/sq ft

Oak offers distinctive grain patterns and strong resistance to daily wear, making it a long-standing favorite for living rooms, hallways, and dining areas.

Moderate cost: $5–12/sq ft

Maple offers smooth, consistent grain with high hardness ratings and holds up well in busy rooms and entryways.

Moderate cost: $6–10/sq ft

Combines the look of oak with added stability, handling Chicago's humidity shifts better than solid hardwood.

High cost: $7–14/sq ft

Hickory features a bold, interlocking grain and a higher hardness rating than oak, making it a strong choice for active households.

Value/moderate cost: $3–7/sq ft

A waterproof option for kitchens, basements, and busy households, with a wood-look surface that resists scratches and moisture damage.

Value/moderate cost: $4–8/sq ft

LVT mimics the look of stone with a durable, water-resistant surface. A practical fit for bathrooms, kitchens, and laundry rooms.

Builder's Grade Laminate

Value cost: $3–5/sq ft

A budget-friendly laminate with water-resistant properties and a realistic wood appearance, well-suited for bedrooms, hallways, and living rooms.

Water-Resistant Laminate

Value/moderate cost: $4-6/sq ft

Features deep embossing for a real-wood feel, with water-resistant properties and added slip resistance for kitchens and entryways.

Moderate cost: $5–10/sq ft

Ceramic comes in a wide range of colors, patterns, and sizes, holds up well in moisture-prone rooms, and is easy to clean.

Moderate/high cost: $7–12/sq ft

Denser and more water-resistant than standard ceramic, porcelain works well in bathrooms, kitchens, and outdoor patios.

Plush Carpet

Value/moderate cost: $2–7/sq ft

A soft, even-textured carpet that adds warmth and comfort to bedrooms, formal living rooms, and quieter areas of the home.

Berber Carpet

Value/moderate cost: $3–7/sq ft

Berber's tight loop construction handles foot traffic well and resists stains, making it a practical pick for stairs, hallways, and family rooms.