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Uneven floors often signal structural issues in a home, so taking them seriously is vital. If you buy an older home with slightly uneven floors, check that your inspector thoroughly inspects the foundation to catch any potential issues early. And if you notice that your floors are becoming more uneven over time, call a pro to check your foundation ASAP.

The flooring that is the least toxic is solid wood. Natural linoleum, tile, stone, bamboo, and cork flooring also make the list of least-toxic flooring types. These flooring materials are safer and healthier for your home because they are natural materials that aren’t manufactured with chemicals, unlike laminate flooring. While some laminate flooring brands are made with less formaldehyde, many contain high levels of toxic chemicals that can off-gas in your home for months and years after installation.

Choosing natural flooring materials that are easy to clean without chemical cleansers can also help keep your home safer.

While many hardwood floors can last decades with proper maintenance, choosing a harder wood type, like hickory, can help extend the life span of your hardwood floors and reduce the amount of maintenance needed to keep them looking new and shiny. Softer hardwoods, like walnut, may not last quite as long as other types.

Nylon carpet is widely considered one of the most durable and longest-lasting options, typically lasting 12 to 15 years. Its durability comes from its high resistance to wear, tear, stains, fading, and abrasions. It also resists liquid spills, insects, mold, and mildew, making it ideal for high-traffic areas like living rooms and hallways. For even greater longevity, frieze or Berber carpets are excellent choices that can last up to 20 to 25 years.

Beyond the material, a carpet's construction is key to its durability. Low-pile carpets with short, tight loops hold up better against wear than high-pile options. As a synthetic material, nylon is available in a vast range of colors and styles and often feels remarkably soft.