If you’re renting out your home this summer, whether it’s a cozy Airbnb or a full-time vacation rental, every detail counts. From the photos in your listing to the comfort of your living room, guests are looking for one thing: a clean, welcoming, well-maintained space.
Your flooring plays a huge role in making that impression. It’s one of the first things people see when they walk in and one of the hardest-working surfaces in your entire property. The right flooring upgrade can elevate your rental, attract better reviews, and reduce your maintenance headaches for seasons to come.
Why flooring matters in a vacation rental
You can have stunning furniture and stylish décor, but if the floors are outdated, scratched, stained, or dingy, it instantly lowers the guest experience.
Guests want:
- Cleanliness: floors should look spotless and feel safe.
- Style: modern, cohesive floors make your space feel polished.
- Comfort: guests are often barefoot, floors need to feel good too.
- Durability: from rolling suitcases to sandy shoes and wet swimsuits, summer guests can be tough on flooring.
That’s why upgrading your floors is one of the smartest moves you can make before peak season.
Best flooring upgrades for summer rentals
Here are the top choices for vacation rental flooring that’s built to impress, not stress:
1. Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP)
Guest favorite for its clean look and resistance to water, scratches, and scuffs.
- Why it works: looks like real wood or stone, but handles mess like a pro.
- Maintenance: just sweep and mop, it doesn’t need special cleaners.
- Perfect for: living rooms, bedrooms, kitchens, and basements.
Bonus: available in neutral, photo-friendly finishes that make listings shine.
Learn more about: Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP)
2. Tile Flooring
Best for high-moisture zones and properties near water.
- Why it works: waterproof, hard-wearing, and always feels cool underfoot.
- Maintenance: wipe, mop, done. Stains don’t stand a chance.
- Perfect for: bathrooms, kitchens, entryways, mudrooms.
Bonus: guests love how hygienic and easy to clean it feels.
Learn more about: Tile Flooring
3. Laminate Flooring
Budget-conscious choice with solid performance.
- Why it works: durable surface layer resists scratches and fading.
- Maintenance: light cleaning keeps it fresh.
- Perfect for: bedrooms, hallways, upstairs spaces.
Bonus: it gives you a hardwood look without the hardwood price tag.
Learn more about: Laminate Flooring
4. Engineered Hardwood
High-end rentals deserve high-end floors.
- Why it works: real wood veneer with a stable core, less expansion and contraction than solid hardwood.
- Maintenance: requires care, but makes a big visual impact.
- Perfect for: luxury properties, open-plan living rooms, master suites.
Bonus: adds long-term value to the home while wowing guests.
Which areas matter most? Focus your flooring where guests notice
When upgrading floors for a vacation rental, strategic placement matters. You don’t have to redo the entire home, just the high-impact zones.
Living room:
- Guest experience hub: first impressions, lounging, photo moments.
- Recommended upgrade: LVP or engineered hardwood for warmth and durability.
Kitchen:
- Mess magnet: spills, snacks, morning coffee, family dinners.
- Recommended upgrade: tile or waterproof LVP for easy cleanup.
Bathrooms:
- Moisture central: showers, wet towels, steam.
- Recommended upgrade: Tile, it’s unbeatable in this zone.
Entryway:
- First steps in: dragging luggage, sand, dirt, rain.
- Recommended upgrade: durable LVP or tile, paired with a welcome mat.
Bedrooms:
- Calming zone: guests want clean, quiet, comfortable spaces.
- Recommended upgrade: laminate or LVP with soft textures and light colors.
Guest-friendly flooring features to prioritize
When selecting vacation rental flooring, keep your guests (and your future self) in mind. Look for materials that are:
- Waterproof or water-resistant.
- Scratch-resistant (great for rolling bags or pet paws).
- Stain-resistant and easy to clean.
- Neutral-toned to match any decor.
- Durable enough for seasonal turnover.
Bonus: flooring that looks great in photos can increase your booking rate before guests even step inside.
Tips to maximize impact with minimal work
Don’t want to renovate the entire space? These quick strategies add polish with less effort:
- Use the same flooring across open areas to make rooms feel bigger.
- Choose lighter tones to brighten photos and feel cooler in summer.
- Add washable area rugs in bedrooms for texture and comfort.
- Pair with fresh baseboards or trim for a clean, finished look.
Why MAR Flooring is the go-to for vacation rental upgrades
At MAR Flooring, we help homeowners and investors turn their rentals into guest-ready gems, fast. Whether you need durable flooring that holds up to traffic or stylish finishes that wow in your listing, we have you covered with:
- Fast turnaround times.
- Waterproof LVP and tile in stock.
- Honest, expert guidance for your property type and budget.
- Precise, clean installations by trained professionals.
- 1-year service warranty for post-project peace of mind.
With MAR Flooring, you don’t just upgrade your floors, you elevate your entire guest experience.
Want to boost your summer bookings and reduce the stress of constant cleaning?
Let MAR Flooring help you install the perfect vacation rental flooring to impress guests all season long.