New flooring ideas for any budget

If the budget cannot extend to accommodate new flooring, or you’re in a rental property (or you need to allocate the renovation budget elsewhere) we still have you covered. Floor rugs can transform a room considerably and are a fraction of the price. You can also move them around the home or take them when you leave! They can help cover a pesky stain or floor damage too and there are no rules about where rugs can or cannot go. Living room rugs are excellent at providing warmth and zoning areas within an open plan space while bedroom rugs work to add a layer where there are hard floors.

Rugs are a great way to include some colour, pattern or texture into the interior design and also keep feet cosy in the cooler months. Within the category of rugs, there are many options (check out our Rug Store for beautiful designs). From wool and jute fibres to easy-to-maintain synthetic materials, there’s a rug for every home and budget. Choosing a rug can feel overwhelming but there are some excellent resources to help you make your decision. You can start with our Rug Guide for advice on placement, size and colour.

If a rug isn’t enough of a change or the budget is feeling a bit more generous, changing flooring in some rooms throughout the home where they are most needed, or selecting a budget-friendly option is a great idea. For example, changing the carpet in all bedrooms can instantly feel luxurious and like a big change has occurred with relatively little financial outlay. Or, just concentrating on the main living space or where floors most need replacing. It can be helpful to still think “big picture” though and ensure the flooring will work with any future changes you would like to make- flooring or otherwise.

If you’re wanting to change the whole home’s flooring but are on a limited budget, there are lower-cost options for many flooring styles. Natural materials and fibres tend to be on the higher end of the budget so look to their less expensive counterparts. Hybrid, laminate and vinyl flooring are a good options for hard flooring styles while synthetic carpets will also provide solutions. Use the price options in the search function to find where the product sits on the budget. The Setting a Budget page is a good place to start.

It’s also worth noting some products need less preparation than others, such as laminate flooring. This particular flooring might cost a little more, but it’s often possible to install with minimal flooring preparation, reducing costs. This is where the experts love to help! Call or pop into one of your friendly stores for more specific advice regarding your home and project.

A big flooring change can make your home feel completely new. It can add value if you’re hoping to sell but it also will bring joy if you are wanting to stay. The budget comes into play for the vast majority of projects, even if the allowance is generous so it’s worth considering how much you’re willing to spend or if there are other changes you would like to include in this budget (such as painting, new window treatments or a bathroom refresh). The options are endless if you’re wanting a big change.

The best path to take to narrow down what you want is to consider a few things- how will the space be used, who will use the rooms, how much you want to spend, do you have pets and how much effort do you want to place on cleaning and maintenance? There might be specific requirements too (such as it’s an apartment which might have special acoustic needs). Then seek a bit of inspiration. Is there a look you are drawn to? Have you seen something you like in a magazine, Pinterest, or while travelling? Armed with this information and inspiration, Flooring Xtra can help guide you in the right direction to choosing beautiful flooring for your home.

How to clean carpet stains

Carpet can be enjoyed for many years with care and maintenance. Extend the life of your carpet by promptly attending to spills and marks. Read our Cleaning Guide for spot removal tips and cleaning.

What is the best way to mop vinyl?

Vinyl flooring is an easy-care flooring option and simple to look after. Use a quality mop and not too much water and ensure it’s not a steam mop. You can read all the details you need on our Vinyl Care page.

What are the benefits of a professional flooring installer?

Deciding what new flooring you will install at home is a big deal! There is a lot to consider and it’s an investment which is why it’s important to get the installation done by the professionals- they know what they are doing and are incredibly knowledgable. They have all the right tools, they can problem solve, drawing on years of experience and get things done promptly. Each Flooring Xtra store has its own professional installers so you can relax while the experts get the job done!

Disclaimer: In some states of Australia, the building regulations for Vinyl Planks, Vinyl Tiles and Hybrid flooring varies. Meaning they may not be suitable for areas requiring water resistance, such as bathrooms and toilets. We advise to always ask your local Flooring Xtra store for the correct advice regarding the local regulations. We also advise to follow the manufacturer’s recommended installation instructions and guidelines, not following the instructions could make the product not fit for purpose, for the area it’s being installed into and void your product warranty. To ensure you get the appropriate product for those areas, please contact your local Flooring Xtra store.