A bad rental apartment floor can be an issue for many property managers so here are some ideas to help.
By Tracey Clayton
If there’s anything that can put you off of a decent rental property, it’s ugly flooring. It’s totally understandable that you don’t want crumbling tiles in the bathroom, splitting hardwood floors in the living room and outdated linoleum in the kitchen.
But what can you do if you just can’t say no to the apartment?
Here are a few ideas that will help cover up your disaster floors (when remodeling is not an option) and put some style into your apartment home.
Get rid of the problematic spots
If there are only a few spots on your floors that have seen better days, you’re in luck! A worn-out corner can be easily covered up with strategically placed floor cushions. If your shabby area is bigger, you can create a cozy reading nook with an armchair and ottomans to hide the offending floor.
Be square for once
Covering floors with wall-to-wall carpet is a good idea, especially if you have kids who love to roam around barefoot and play on the floor, but sometimes that’s just not doable.
In that case, opt for carpet tiles that look modern and are super-practical. Some models come with little glue dots on the bottom for easy installation and easy removal. These carpet squares can be easily washed and kept clean and free of allergens. However, the best thing about them is that they are completely modular, which means you can come up with your own arrangement, shapes and patterns, and create truly unique flooring.
Layers, layers, layers
This solution should always be at the top of your list—rug layering!
If you need a quick, cheap and absolutely gorgeous answer to your unappealing floors, grab a few beautiful rugs and combine them into one layered look. This flooring option will not only hide your problematic floors but also add color, softness, texture and visual interest to your space. Feel free to experiment with layering shapes and sizes until you find a unique and practical look, and when you get bored with it, just switch things up and voila—new aesthetics.
Replicate luxury with fake marble
When you’re renting, it’s safe to assume that you’re not allowed to tear out the old floors and replace them with marble. But what you can do is fake the Carrera marble look with some top-shelf vinyl stickers. They might sound very kitsch, but these peel-and-stick tiles actually look amazing. They can replicate everything from wood to marble and stone – and they can even be grouted for an authentic look – for a portion of the price of the real thing.
Go gaga for geometry
If you’re looking for a durable but less-permanent solution than vinyl stickers, here’s what you need. You can find super-cute vinyl floor cloths that are tear- and wear-proof, non-slippery and easily maintained. But the best thing about this flooring option is that it comes in practically all colors, shapes, sizes and designs imaginable. The bold geometric patterns are the most popular and attractive. They fit amazingly in any bathroom and kitchen and give it that desired Instagram-ready look.
Add some fun with foam
If you’re looking for something soft and colorful yet very cheap, nothing beats foam tiles.
They are truly the best solution for covering shabby flooring in kids’ rooms and playrooms because they are super fun and comfy on little feet and palms.
The foam will also soften all the vibrations and noises kids might make when running around and playing, which is something you and your neighbors will love. Another reason these foam tiles are your friend is that they can be interlocked like a puzzle, so you can assemble and disassemble your floors in minutes. All colors, patterns and styles are available on the market (some options are even non-toxic, fire-retardant and waterproof), so just pick your little one’s fave color and you’re all set.
Mask your shower tiles with teak
If your shower tiles are your most critical issue, don’t worry. You don’t have to go looking for a sledgehammer, but hit your local store (retailers like Bed, Bath and Beyond or Overstock are a good starting point) and grab a teak or cedar floor mat. These look amazing in your shower and they are naturally water-resistant. But if you feel crafty, you can whip one up in a few hours or less with only a few materials and tools.
Ugly floors in your rental aren’t the end of the world. These practical and beautiful ideas will not only hide what’s not presentable but also improve the overall look of your home.
