The Fifth Wall

Flooring can truly revolutionize a room. Some people refer to flooring as "the fifth wall" which defines a room's overall feel. Flooring can make a room feel warm, cozy, polished, strong, natural or even relaxed. Here are several flooring trends for 2011:

Bamboo
Pros: Durable, eco-friendly, easy to clean
Cons: Expensive, possible moisture damage, scratches easily

Cork
Pros: Natural shock absorber, durable, lightweight, mold/mildew resistant
Cons: Regular maintenance, absorbs stains (if not treated), expensive

Reclaimed Hardwood

Pros: Unique appearance due to age, eco-friendly, can increase home value

Cons: Expensive, requires research to find quality wood, refinishing is labor intensive

Modern Shag Carpet

Pros: Variety of color and fiber options, comfort, inexpensive, easy installation

Cons: Shedding, catches dirt and dust (bad for allergies), holds moisture

Concrete

Pros: Durable, versatile, moisture/bacteria/allergen resistant, low maintenance

Cons: Installation, hard, conducts heat/cold/sound

Marmoleum

Pros: Durable, color variety, natural materials, prevention of mites, anti-bacterial properties, comfort

Cons: Installation (heavy)

Anti-Bacterial Tile

Pros: Reduces air pollutants, easy to clean

Cons: Concern of long term effects of anti-bacterial product use