Flooring Experts serves Louisiana, including the key metros of Baton Rouge and Shreveport. The state's subtropical climate, with high humidity and heat, requires flooring that can withstand moisture and temperature fluctuations. We guide you to the best solutions for your home.
Louisiana's hot and humid climate presents specific challenges for flooring installation and material selection. High levels of moisture can cause many flooring types, especially wood and laminate, to swell, warp, or even develop mold. Vinyl plank flooring is an excellent choice for Louisiana homes because it is highly resistant to water and humidity. It offers durability and a wide range of styles to suit the diverse housing stock found in cities like Baton Rouge and Shreveport. Proper sealing and installation techniques are vital to ensure your floors can handle the consistent humidity.
For value in Louisiana, luxury vinyl plank is a top choice. Its exceptional resistance to humidity and water makes it ideal for the state's climate, and it offers durability and style without a high price tag for Baton Rouge residents.
The 1 3 rule, referring to the necessary expansion gap around floating floors, is critical in Louisiana. The consistent high humidity means floors have a greater tendency to expand, and this gap prevents buckling.
Vinyl plank is significantly better than laminate for Louisiana's climate due to its inherent waterproof properties. Laminate is highly susceptible to moisture damage, which is a constant concern in a humid environment like Shreveport.
Luxury vinyl plank (LVP) is exceptionally popular across Louisiana. Its ability to resist moisture, its durability in high-traffic areas, and its wide array of realistic wood and stone looks make it a go-to option for homeowners.
For an economical yet resilient option in Louisiana, vinyl plank offers the best combination. It stands up well to the state's humidity and heat, providing good wear resistance and a stylish appearance at a budget-friendly price.
Louisiana's high humidity requires careful acclimation of flooring materials to the home's environment before installation. This process helps the vinyl adjust, minimizing the risk of expansion or contraction issues that can arise from the constant moisture.
Useful reference: EPA indoor air quality — low-VOC material choices.