(StatePoint) Whether you are building a new house or making upgrades on a current home, there is a lot to consider when it comes to flooring. It’s important to keep in mind that the choices available have changed in recent years.

Here are some things to know:

Choose Style

When people choose flooring products, they may be ruling out a large swath of options because of the associations they have with specific materials. For example, you may not associate vinyl with luxury but new products on the market are redefining vinyl flooring, offering fashion-forward high-quality products in striking elegant designs.

Ensure Durability

If you love the look of traditional hardwood floors, consider all of your options. New vinyl technologies are allowing homeowners to get the same elegant style engineered to withstand the wear and tear to which wood is susceptible. For example, Mohawk SolidTech, a luxury vinyl tile, has a thick, rigid construction and planks that look and feel just like real hardwood, but are designed to resist scratches, scuffs and indentation, and maintain stability under heat and temperature change. The planks also fit together to create an impenetrable lock so that the floors remain waterproof and odor-free.

Consider Maintenance

Make sure the flooring you opt for is easy to clean and requires very little maintenance. If you have pets, you may want to consider getting extra protection with a special warranty designed for pet owners, such as Mohawk’s All Pet Protection and Warranty, which covers all pets and all accidents. More information can be found at MohawkFlooring.com.

Before making flooring decisions, get savvy and weigh all your current options. These days, it is possible to find flooring products that combine style, durability and low maintenance