Homeowners love the warmth and texture of wood floors, whether it’s faux or real. Laminate flooring
What is it?
Laminate flooring can be described as a compressed fiberboard plank covered with a photographic image and protective overlay.
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How much does laminate flooring run?
Prices start at PS3/square metre. Be aware, however, that the cheapest options are smooth and do not look realistic.
Bevelled edges, more images and embossed features (such as knots) will give you a more natural texture and look, but will come at a higher price.
Where to lay laminate flooring
High-traffic areas such as living rooms and study areas will require frequent cleaning. Some products are waterproof and can be used in kitchens or bathrooms.
Laminate flooring should not be laid in these areas unless you check the guarantee first.
There are pros and cons to laminate flooring
Wearable and durable
Click-lock designs can be installed easily
Large selection of imitations of natural material available
There are cons to laminate flooring
Even the most expensive laminates will not look or feel exactly the same as real things.
Over time, laminate will begin to swell and the joins can become worn. It’s very difficult to repair damage to the surface.
Laminates that are not properly laid can deter homebuyers
Engineered wood flooring
What is it?
Each engineered wood floorboard has three or four layers, which are then glued together to create a plank of around 14mm thickness. It comes with a top of about 4mm real-wood veneer. This means that it can be sanded back to restore its original finish, should it become scuffed, worn out, or damaged.
Sometimes it is available with a click-and lock installation which does not require any adhesive. To place tongue-and groove versions, you will need glue.
How much does engineered wooden flooring cost?
Prices range from around PS19 per metre to more than PS166 when you buy expensive woods.
Where to lay engineered wooden flooring?
Living rooms and bedrooms. It’s less likely to warp than solid wood. However, it should not be used in places where it will be exposed too much humidity, such as a bathroom. It is best to avoid it when you are laying stairs.
It can be challenging to achieve a clean finish around corners.
There are pros to engineered wood flooring
Engineered wood flooring has a stronger construction than solid hardwood and is less susceptible to changes in room temperature or humidity.
More attractive than laminate flooring
Cheaper than comparable solid wood planks
There are cons to engineered wood flooring
Tongue-and Groove planks take longer to install than click lock ones
Laminated can be significantly more expensive than the laminate
Solid wood flooring
What is it?
Each solid wood board is constructed from a single piece wood, typically 18-20mm thick. It is fitted using tongue and groove. Each type of wood has a hardness rating, which shows how easily they can be damaged or dented.
Solid wood flooring can still be sanded. However, the depth at which the tongue is set from top to bottom will determine how many times you can do it.
What does solid wood flooring cost in terms of price?
Prices for raw wood vary depending upon the price. For example, the lowest priced options can cost as low as PS15/square metre, while tropical hardwoods can cost up to PS82/square meter.
Where can I lay solid hardwood flooring?
Anywhere that has a steady humidity. Particularly in hallways or living areas where you can show it off.
The pros of solid wood flooring
Classic look and feel
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Solid wood flooring: Cons
Flooring made of solid wood shrinks in dry conditions while expanding in damp.
It is difficult to attach because it needs to be glued/nailed down. The boards are flexible and can be tricky to fit together.
Wood flooring made from solid wood is more expensive than other options.
Solid wood floorboards can amplify sound, so rugs may be an option if you have hardwood floors upstairs
Wood flooring made from reclaimed wood
What is it?
Reclaimed wood flooring means timber that was previously used in an older property. It can be salvaged and reused.
If you have an older home, chances are you will find the original floorboards still in good condition under decades-old flooring. If not, you might be able to source vintage planks.
How much does reclaimed wooden flooring cost?
Prices vary depending where you buy. These boards might be given away free of charge or for a very low cost on sites like Gumtree, eBay, and others. At salvage yards, however, prices start at around PS25 per square mile. Depending on the board’s condition, age, and width, this can easily reach well above PS100 per sq metre.
What is the best place to lay reclaimed wooden flooring?
Reclaimed timber flooring can also be installed anywhere. However it is best not to use in bathrooms, as moisture may cause the timber crack and swell. Reclaimed wood flooring should be placed in bathrooms. Wipe up any spills immediately and ensure that the area is well ventilated.
Benefits of reclaimed wooden flooring
Reusing existing wood can be one of the greener flooring options.
Vintage wood adds aesthetic appeal and value.
Reclaimed wood can be stained, white-washed and painted any colour.
They are generally very durable
There are cons to reclaimed hardwood flooring
These floorboards are often four to five times more costly than new ones
Woodworm. Be on the lookout for woodworm.
If you do not purchase it from a company who will process it for your benefit, it could contain hidden dangers.
Solid wood floorboards can amplify sound, so rugs may be an option if you have hardwood floors upstairs
Parquet flooring
What is it?
Parquet flooring is easy to recognize. It is composed of blocks or strips of wood that have been arranged into a regular pattern, such as herringbone and basket weave.
What is the average cost of parquet flooring in Canada?
Parquet prices start at PS25/square metre and go all the way up to the hundreds.
How to lay parquet flooring
Parquet flooring works well in all rooms of a house, but is best avoided in areas where there are high humidity such as bathrooms.
Benefits of parquet flooring
This can be used to create beautiful patterns
Stable and able to handle high volumes of traffic
Conveniences of parquet flooring
It is difficult to install and expensive.
Can fade in direct sunshine and be damaged if wet.
Bamboo flooring
What is it?
Bamboo is technically a grass, not a tree. However, it can be made into flooring boards that last a lifetime and have a similar feel to hardwood.
Bamboo matures in 25% less time than hardwood trees. That means it’s easier to harvest and is more durable.
How much does bamboo flooring cost?
Prices may vary but begin at approximately PS20 per square-metre.
Where can you lay bamboo flooring
Bamboo works well for almost all rooms. Bamboo is water-resistant, but it is not waterproof.
Pros and cons of bamboo flooring
It’s a long-lasting resource. Bamboo grows rapidly and can be replenished about every five to six years.
The durability of strand-woven bamboo makes it stronger than oak flooring.
Bamboo repels dust and pollen, making it a good choice for allergy sufferers.
Bamboo is water-resistant so is less likely for mildew and mould to form
It’s easy to clean
There are cons to bamboo flooring
Some bamboo contains formaldehyde in its adhesive, which is toxic and can release small amounts (VOCs), over time.
Water resistant but not waterproof. Too much water could leave unsightly spots or cause flooring to warp.
The carbonisation process that makes darker bamboo harder and more vulnerable to damage has taken place.
Do not scratch your head
Wood-effect tiles
What do they mean?
Wood effect tiles are practical and affordable, combining the beauty of natural wood with tiles’ durability.
How much does wood-effect tile cost?
From PS12 per meter to more than PS150 a square metre
Which area should I lay wood-effect tiles
Wood-effect tiles, which are waterproof and can withstand wear and tear, are ideal for use in bathrooms, kitchens, hallways, and other areas that see a lot of traffic, like hallways. Some companies also make matching outdoor and indoor tiles that can be used outdoors.
Pros of wood effect tiles
They can be used in any room including bathrooms. They will not rot, warp or shrink if they are exposed to water.
Easy to maintain: wipe clean, stain resistant
A large selection of styles and colours available
Cons of wood-effect tile
Can it be cold even without underfloor heating
You don’t need to absorb sound.
The grout that is used to make tiles can trap dirt or debris.
Cork flooring
What is it?
Cork is a sustainable and environmentally friendly product that is made from cork oak bark. Bark splits in nature about every 9-15years and can safely be harvested without causing harm to trees. The bark regenerates and the cycle continues for many more years.
For flooring, cork can be ground up and compressed into sheets, which are then bonded with resins.
How much does cork flooring cost?
Prices for cork tile tiles can vary widely, but the starting price is around PS20 per square-metre.
What is the best place to lay cork flooring
Cork is a soft material that can act as cushion. It can be great for kids’ bedrooms and playrooms. It’s safe to use in bedrooms as cork retains heat and is cosy underfoot. Because cork doesn’t absorb dust, mites or other allergens, it is an ideal choice for anyone with allergies.
Cork floor tiles are coated with an invisible varnish, which protects against water stains. Cork can discolour and warp if it isn’t sealed properly or if there are floods in the area. Cork curling can also be caused by high humidity.
Cork flooring has its pros
Cork is an excellent insulation. It will absorb sound and keep you warm all year.
It doesn’t absorb dust, mites or pollens, so it’s good for anyone with allergies.
Durable and shock-absorbing so it can withstand lots of foot traffic
Cork is an eco-friendly alternative because it can be quickly recycled and biodegradable.
Mildew and mould resistance are naturally present
Con’s of cork flooring
They are not as durable as hardwood floors.
Proper preparation is essential to prevent problems down the road. It should be clean and dry.
Cork can scratch easily because of its softness.