Choosing the right flooring in Portugal requires understanding the local climate, historical context, and the specific needs of the property—whether it’s a personal home, a rental, or a flip. In this guide, we’ll explore the types of floors commonly used in Portuguese homes built over the past century, alongside modern recommendations suited to today’s diverse property needs.
1. Flooring in Portugal Over the Decades: A Historical Perspective
Early 1900s to 1940s: Traditional Portuguese Tile and Stone Flooring
Homes built in the early 20th century often featured natural stone and terracotta tiles, chosen for their durability and suitability for Portugal’s warm climate.
Photo: Terracota do Algarve
Azulejos (hand-painted ceramic tiles) also added artistic value in many homes, especially in Lisbon and Porto.
Photo: Poeta Azul
• Why These Materials? These floors were practical, durable, and cool, offering comfort during Portugal’s warm summers.
• Historical Insight: Azulejos trace back to Moorish influences and add a unique cultural touch to Portuguese interiors.
1950s to 1970s: Terrazzo and Polished Stone
During the post-WWII period, terrazzo flooring—a composite of marble, quartz, and other materials—was widely used for its affordability and easy maintenance. This type of flooring can still be found in many mid-century apartments and high-traffic areas.
• Why Terrazzo? Terrazzo is durable, easy to maintain, and its production process allows for a variety of designs.
• Historical Insight: Terrazzo was especially popular during the urban expansion in the 60s and 70s, often seen in entryways and staircases of apartment buildings.
1980s to 1990s: Ceramic Tiles and Parquet Flooring
In the 1980s and 90s, ceramic tiles in neutral tones became the go-to choice, thanks to their affordability, variety, and durability.
• Why Ceramic Tiles? Practical for cleaning, water-resistant, and durable in high-traffic areas.
• Historical Insight: Portugal’s construction boom in the 1990s brought a preference for minimalistic, cool-toned ceramics.
Parquet (wooden) flooring also gained popularity, especially in bedrooms and living rooms.
2000s to Present: Modern Innovations – Engineered Wood, Vinyl, and Laminate
The 21st century brought a wider range of flooring options like engineered wood, vinyl, and laminate, allowing homeowners to balance aesthetic and budget requirements. These materials are versatile, easy to install, and provide alternatives to traditional hardwood and stone.
2. Choosing the Right Flooring for Modern Properties in Portugal
With a wide range of flooring options now available, let’s explore the materials best suited for various purposes—whether it’s for a personal home, a rental property, or a flip.
1. Ceramic Tiles
Composition: Made from natural clay, ceramic tiles are kiln-fired, creating a hard, water-resistant surface.
• Pros:
• Durability: Resistant to scratches and heavy use, making it ideal for high-traffic areas.
• Waterproof: Great for bathrooms, kitchens, and even outdoor spaces.
• Climate Suitability: Cool underfoot, ideal for Portugal’s warm summers.
• Cons:
• Cold in Winter: May feel chilly during colder months.
• Hardness: Can be uncomfortable for standing over long periods and may break items if dropped.
• Recommended Use: Kitchens, bathrooms, patios, and entryways where durability and water resistance are key.
2. Engineered Wood Flooring
Composition: Engineered wood features a top layer of real wood bonded to layers of plywood or high-density fiberboard.
• Pros:
• Aesthetic Appeal: Provides the look of hardwood with added stability.
• Stability: Less prone to expansion/contraction, making it suitable for varying humidity levels.
• Ease of Installation: Can be installed over concrete, making it versatile.
• Cons:
• Cost: More expensive than laminate or vinyl.
• Moisture Sensitivity: Although stable, excessive moisture can cause warping.
• Recommended Use: Ideal for living rooms and bedrooms where a warm, natural look is desired.
3. Laminate Flooring
Composition: Composed of a high-density fiberboard core with a photographic layer that mimics wood or stone.
• Pros:
• Affordable: Budget-friendly, offering a high-end look at a lower cost.
• Variety: Available in numerous colors and finishes.
• DIY-Friendly: Often comes with click-lock systems for easy installation.
• Cons:
• Moisture Sensitivity: Not ideal for very humid areas.
• Sound and Feel: Less warm underfoot and can be noisy compared to real wood.
• Recommended Use: Suitable for living areas and bedrooms; avoid high-moisture areas like bathrooms.
4. Vinyl Flooring
Composition: Made from polyvinyl chloride (PVC), featuring a design layer and a protective top coating.
• Pros:
• Waterproof: Ideal for bathrooms, kitchens, and basements.
• Durability: Scratch-resistant and easy to clean.
• Comfort: Softer underfoot than tile or wood.
• Cons:
• Environmental Impact: PVC production has ecological concerns.
• Off-Gassing: Some products may emit VOCs initially.
• Recommended Use: Versatile for any room, particularly good in moisture-prone areas.
5. Polished Concrete
Composition: Polished concrete is a smooth, glossy surface created by mechanically grinding and polishing the concrete slab.
• Pros:
• Durability: Extremely long-lasting, resistant to heavy use.
• Thermal Mass: Retains heat during cooler months and stays cool in summer.
• Minimalist Aesthetic: Complements modern and industrial designs.
• Cons:
• Hardness: Very hard underfoot, which can be uncomfortable.
• Costly Installation: Polishing can be labor-intensive and expensive.
• Recommended Use: Ideal for open-plan spaces or industrial-style interiors.
6. Cork Flooring
Composition: Derived from the bark of cork oak trees, processed and baked into tiles or planks.
• Pros:
• Eco-Friendly: Cork is renewable and has minimal environmental impact.
• Comfortable and Warm: Provides cushioning and warmth, suitable for colder regions.
• Thermal and Acoustic Insulation: Reduces noise and helps maintain temperature.
• Cons:
• Prone to Scratching/Denting: Heavy furniture can leave marks.
• Moisture Sensitivity: Needs sealing to withstand water exposure.
• Recommended Use: Great for living rooms and bedrooms, providing a sustainable, comfortable option.
Conclusion: Making the Right Flooring Choice for Your Property
Choosing the right flooring in Portugal can enhance both the style and functionality of your property. Whether restoring a traditional aesthetic or opting for a modern, minimalist approach, understanding the pros and cons of each material can help you make the best decision for your needs.
How We Can Help:
We stage new, empty homes for sale, renovate and upgrade outdated properties, furnish holiday homes and re-style tired rentals, and bring fresh design to hospitality projects. We also help clients relocate to Portugal, find the perfect property, sell it or rent it. If you need help with any of these services, please reach out—we’d love to help you.