A Guide to Durable Finishes in Multifamily Properties

For property managers and owners, balancing cost, durability, and design is the name of the game. Every unit refresh or common area renovation costs time and money, especially in high-turnover environments. That’s why selecting the right finishes matters so much. Choosing durable finishes in multifamily properties helps extend the life of your materials, reduces repair frequency, and keeps your spaces looking newer for longer, all while improving tenant satisfaction.

This guide explores the smart and low-maintenance interior materials for walls, flooring, countertops, cabinetry, appliances, and fixtures. We’ll highlight materials that stand up to daily wear, simplify maintenance, and offer long-term value without compromising on design.

Flooring That Holds Up and Looks Great

Flooring is one of the most heavily used features in any multifamily unit. It must withstand constant foot traffic, potential moisture exposure, and the occasional dropped item, while maintaining its appearance across tenant cycles.

LVT Leads the Pack

Luxury vinyl tile (LVT) is commonly known as the best flooring for rental units. It’s water-resistant, scratch-resistant, and easier to maintain than traditional hardwood or carpet. Many LVT products now offer wood-look finishes that are stylish and affordable.

Average cost: $2–$5 per square foot (material only)
Lifespan: 10–20 years with proper installation and care
Bonus: Easy replacement of damaged planks without tearing up entire floors

LVT works well in living areas, kitchens, and hallways. Many properties still use carpet in bedrooms to soften the space, but increasingly, owners are opting for LVT throughout for continuity and easier cleaning between leases.

Wall Surfaces That Resist Damage

Scuffed baseboards, dingy paint, and wall dents can make a recently turned unit feel dated. The right wall finishes reduce rework between tenants and simplify ongoing upkeep.

Durable Paint Finishes

Choose semi-gloss or satin paint finishes in high-traffic areas. These finishes are more resistant to stains and easier to wipe clean than flat paint. For baseboards and doors, semi-gloss holds up better to repeated cleaning and dings.

Recommended: High-quality acrylic latex paint for durability and fast drying
Consider: A slightly darker neutral color to hide minor scuffs

Many properties refresh paint between leases, but durable finishes allow touch-ups instead of full repaints.

Protective Wall Panels

In common areas like hallways or stairwells, consider wainscoting or vinyl wall coverings that provide added resistance to scratches, impact, and wear. These materials are often used in commercial spaces for good reasons, holding up over time and being easy to clean.

Countertops That Withstand Heavy Use

Kitchen and bathroom counters take a beating. Between food prep, water spills, and general wear, they need to be strong, nonporous, and resistant to stains or scratches.

Quartz Delivers Long-Term Value

Quartz countertops strike a balance between luxury and low maintenance. They’re nonporous, don’t require sealing, and resist staining and chipping.

Average cost: $60–$80 per square foot installed
Lifespan: 15+ years
Upside: Available in a wide range of colors and patterns

While more expensive than laminate upfront, quartz pays off over time with fewer replacements and higher tenant appeal.

Laminate for Budget-Friendly Spaces

For entry-level or student housing units, modern laminate options can still provide good performance when installed properly.

Average cost: $20–$40 per square foot
Upside: Affordable, wide color range
Downside: Less heat and impact resistance

Laminate may require more frequent replacement, but in low-wear units, it can still be a smart choice.

Cabinets Built for Longevity

Cabinetry sees heavy daily use, and cheap materials tend to break or warp over time. Investing in cabinet fronts and hardware that can withstand repeated opening and cleaning makes all the difference.

Thermafoil Offers Affordable Durability

Thermafoil cabinet doors are made by applying a vinyl coating to MDF cores. They offer an appealing, uniform finish with better moisture resistance than painted wood.

Lifespan: 10–15 years with proper care
Maintenance: Wipeable surface, resists peeling if not exposed to extreme heat
Use case: Perfect for kitchens and baths in multifamily units

Paired with durable hinges and modern pulls, thermofoil cabinets offer a clean, resilient option without the high cost of custom wood cabinetry.

Cost-Effective Finishes for Landlords to Reduce Maintenance Calls

Swapping outdated or low-quality fixtures for reliable, easy-to-clean alternatives is a smart upgrade that tenants notice.

Faucets and Showerheads

Choose commercial-grade, single-handle fixtures made from stainless steel or brushed nickel. These finishes resist corrosion and are easier to maintain than cheaper chrome or plastic versions.

Benefit: Faster cleanup and less hard water buildup
Tip: Look for water-efficient models to cut utility costs

Pre-installed aerators or flow restrictors can improve both tenant satisfaction and long-term utility performance.

Lighting Fixtures

Replace old ceiling fans, fluorescent fixtures, and vanity lights with simple LED lighting that lasts longer and consumes less energy.

Preferred: Flush-mount LED discs or linear bar lights in kitchens and baths
Bonus: LEDs run cool, last 10+ years, and reduce bulb replacement costs

Keep fixture designs neutral and consistent throughout the property for a cohesive look.

Capital Construction helps property owners choose and install durable finishes in multifamily properties that last longer, look better, and require less maintenance. Discover more about our services.

Durable Interior Solutions

Appliances That Withstand Turnover

Appliances are often among the most expensive elements to replace. Investing in mid-tier, energy-efficient models is a smart middle ground.

Proven Appliance Timelines

Refrigerators: 10–15 years
Electric ranges: 12–15 years
Dishwashers: 7–10 years
Microwaves: 5–7 years

For multifamily units, black or stainless finishes tend to hide wear better than white models. Energy Star appliances lower operating costs and appeal to eco-conscious renters.

Putting It All Together With Smart Pairings

The right mix of materials across units and common spaces can streamline maintenance while enhancing tenant experience.

Pair LVT flooring with thermally fused laminate (TFL) cabinetry in units for consistency and long-term value.
Use quartz in kitchens and durable solid-surface options in bathrooms where moisture is higher.
Carry a consistent paint palette throughout the building to simplify touch-ups and create a polished look.

Keep branding in mind. The finishes you choose send a message about the quality of your property, and influence the type of tenants you attract.

Strategic Spending Without Sacrificing Looks

Durability will often increase price more than aesthetic upgrades. It’s better to spend a little more upfront on materials that reduce long-term repair needs and unit downtime.

Spend strategically in kitchens and bathrooms. They see the most daily wear.
Choose timeless colors and finishes that won’t date the unit after just a few years.
Consider bulk pricing or manufacturer discounts for multi-unit orders to reduce overall cost.
Work with a renovation partner who understands the demands of multifamily living and can recommend product lines that last.

How Long-Term Finishes Affect ROI

Durable finishes in multifamily properties save time, reduce emergency repairs, and speed up unit turnover. Each improvement cuts down the hours your team spends patching cabinets or replacing carpet. That efficiency adds up across dozens, or even hundreds of units.

Shorter downtime between leases
Lower materials and labor costs over time
Happier tenants with fewer service requests
More consistent branding and visual appeal

Over five to ten years, well-chosen finishes protect your property’s value and improve cash flow.

Build an Interior That Lasts With Capital Construction Group

Provide durable finishes in multifamily properties so it performs at its best. Let Capital Construction guide you through selecting and installing durable, attractive finishes that balance quality and budget.

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