Also notable is the continued move toward green manufacturing practices. Manufacturers are using eco-friendly or recycled fibers for carpet to reduce environmental impact. Carpet pads are also changing, loose fiber is being replaced by high-quality rubbers that last for years to come.

4. Tile
In tile, the motto is the bigger, the better. Trendsetters are doing away with the typical four-inch by four-inch stones. In their place, large format tiles are making a breakthrough, ranging in size from 12 by 12-inch up to 36 by 36 inches. But builders caution DIY installation; these tiles are much heavier than their ancestors, often requiring a professional’s expertise.
Just like smaller tile sizes varieties, the assortment of shapes, textures and colors allow homeowners to create unlimited and unique patterns in their home.

5. Laminate
Laminate is often thought of as the “wannabe wood” – constructed of four layers of material fused together to mimic wood. The benefit to laminate is that it’s much more cost effective than the real thing. In fact, even distressed-looking laminate can mimic reclaimed wood, often for much less expensively. It is also available in the wide-plank variety and can even be laid in any pattern including herringbone, chevron or subway patterns. The best part? The locking planks are easy for DIYers to install themselves.

6. Luxury Vinyl
Today’s luxury vinyl has come along way since the 1920s when it first hit the market. In fact, just like laminate mimics wood, so can vinyl for an even smaller price tag. The material comes in three different options: sheet vinyl (on a roll), vinyl tile and vinyl planks. And it’s appearance isn’t just limited to wood look-alikes. Design-wise, basically anything you can take a photo of, you can turn into vinyl. Marble-esque patterns are trending for bathrooms, while slate and leather looks are also available.
7. Cork
If comfort is the number one priority, cork may be a better option than hardwood floors. Due to its makeup, the fiber is softer and more comfortable to walk on. It also has acoustic properties that make it perfect for homes filled with musicians. Thought it’s more durable with quality finishes today, just like a wine cork swells with moisture, cork floors are not immune to moisture or sun damage.

8. Bamboo
Bamboo flooring is by no means new, but it’s unique colors and styles that again have trendsetters talking. The jungle grass, once dried, can be as hard, if not harder than other hardwoods, like oak and cherry. Technology advances have also made the wide-plank varieties available. However, like cork, it’s prone to moisture and not recommended for bathrooms, laundry rooms or other potentially damp spaces.
9. Carpet tiles
When they think of carpet tiles, many people think of the commercial, block pattern carpet at the office. But in 2016, the less expensive, more durable option for businesses is also making a splash in the home. As separate tiles, the carpet is easier to install than the large, broadloom carpet rolls and can be removed and replaced in well-traveled areas like hallways and doorways. They also make great, and interesting, rugs.