Selecting flooring for your new build or renovation project can be a daunting task. With so many options available at so many different price points, it's hard to know where to even start. That's why we have put together a quick guide to the most common type of flooring options that are available:
1 | Laminate
Laminate is a popular option for those on a budget or when maintenance is a main priority. They are easy to install, easy to clean and more scratch-resistant than other timber flooring options. While laminate can often look a bit 'fake' as the top surface is just a printed image, there are now some great options available that do replicate real timber well.
2 | Engineered Timber Floorboards
Engineered timber flooring has a layer of real timber at the top with layers of a plywood substrate below. Because of this, engineered timber floorboards can give you the same appearance as solid timber but with a lower price tag. Unlike solid timber flooring, you can't sand back and polish the floorboards (although it's possible to lightly buff them back), but engineered timber floorboards are made to wear very well with minimal maintenance anyways. This is by far the most popular flooring type that we like to put into our client's homes.
3 | Hardwood Floorboards
Hardwood floorboards are a luxurious option, that are definitely worth the higher cost if it fits within the budget. They are very durable and can be sanded back and repolished when required, making them a fantastic long term investment that can even increase the value of your home. However, it's important to be aware that hardwood flooring can react to its surrounding, such as moisture and sunlight, and change slightly overtime.
4 | Hybrid Timber Floorboards
Hybrid floorboards are a combination of laminate and vinyl floorboards - having the appearance of a laminate but with the added advantage of being water resistant. While they are a little more expensive than laminate, they are still a very cost effective option. They are therefore a great option for rooms where you might need that extra protection, like a room near a pool or if you leave near the beach.
5 | Vinyl
Vinyl is the most water-resistant of the timber-look options. It is incredibly durable and very easy to maintain, making it perfect for high traffic areas and spaces with high moisture levels. Vinyl comes in different sizes and shapes, such as planks, tiles or sheets. As well as timber-look patterns, they also come in many other patterns to imitate stone, polished concrete or tiles.
6 | Tiles
Tiles are a great option if you'd like a really striking floor, as there are so many different patterns, colours and sizes to choose from. Tiles come in different materials, with porcelain and ceramic tiles being the most affordable, durable and easy to maintain. Natural stone tiles are also a great option, however, not only are they a premium product but there can also be extra costs involved with laying, sealing and maintaining. Terrazzo is another popular option, however, again they are on the expensive side and there can be additional costs with laying them due to their thickness.
7 | Polished Concrete
Polished concrete is a high-end option that can look amazing in the right type of home. Polished concrete is very durable and water resistant once sealed, making it very easy to maintain. There are also many different colours and options available. Another advantage of polished concrete is the ability to add underfloor heating.
8 | Carpet Carpet is a very popular choice for bedrooms, lounges and rumpuses due to the comfort and warmth that it adds to the space. It also has the added advantage of being a great insulator, both for noise and temperature. Carpet comes in either natural or synthetic fibres which both have their advantages and disadvantages, depending on the needs of your space (eg. pets, kids, comfort level, etc.). Carpet also comes in either a loop, twist or plush pile. While plush tends to be the most comfortable and luxurious underfoot, a loop pile generally wears the best. Overall carpet does not wear as well as the other options in high-traffic area, which is why we generally keep carpet just to bedrooms and formal lounges.
I hope this guide has been helpful! If you want to find out more about how we can help you with your project, get in contact with us below:
Have a wonderful week!
Nina xx