Homogenous porcelain tiles are the most popular choice because they are durable and suitable for both indoors and outdoors. Also, they come in a plethora of designs that range from vintage Peranakan, mosaic bits, and those resembling natural stone materials like marble.

Benefits:
Suitable for wet areas such as the bathroom and kitchen. Last almost a lifetime. At $3 psf.

Laminated flooring is made from composite material pressed together at high temperatures – finished with for example, a print of wood to simulate the look of natural materials. It’s available in an extensive range of designs.

Benefits:
Low-maintenance and durable. It’s easy to install and can be laid directly over existing flooring, so no need to hack. At $4.80 psf.

This is made using synthetic materials, and comes in a wide variety of designs and patterns, in either tiles or sheets (giving the option of joint-free flooring). Due to its material composition, it has a “cushioning” effect and stands up against heavy foot traffic, and reduces noise.

Benefits:
Low maintenance, resilient, water-resistant and easy to install over existing flooring. At 7.5 psf.

This closely resembles hardwood, but is actually a composite product. Its surface is veneer (a thin decorative layer of wood), over a compressed core of repurposed plywood or unfinished white wood. As such, it is more stable than solid wood, being more durable and less inclined to temperature and humidity changes.

Benefits:
More durable and versatile than hardwood. Engineered wood can be sanded and refinished, but only up to a few times, due to its thin real wood surface. It also has a tongue-and-groove locking system, requiring no glue or nails to install. At 9.30 psf.

Aesthetically pleasing and exuding a warm feel, hardwood or solid timber flooring is made with natural wood, such as walnut, oak, maple and pine. The wood can be laid out in strips or geometric arrangements. It’s durable, but requires extra care to maintain well.

Benefits:
Long-lasting, as wood floors can be restored over and over again by sanding and refinishing. Each piece of wood has its own distinctive grain, and the flooring will acquire a unique patina with age. At $11.20 psf.