Timber flooring enhances the mood of a house according to the way it is used. Due to its complementary nature, it blends in well with most types of surroundings, and is flexible enough to be incorporated into homes and buildings of various styles and design concepts. Dark wood leads to an elegant outcome whereas timber with natural blemishes reveals a strong authentic attractiveness. Conversely, brighter timber can lighten and offer a modern feel to a new home.
Whatever style a home owner may opt for, there is no doubt that wooden floors possess admirable qualities that contribute to the beauty and comfort of a home. They have a natural softness and magnificence devoid of monotony, are beautiful to look at and bring warmth and comfort to the home and office environment. Also, timber floors do not collect as much dust as carpeted floors, making them more hygienic as well.
Choosing Flooring to Suit Your Style
Wood flooring has many features and styles and choosing one among the many choices available in the market today is not always easy. But selecting the correct type for your needs is crucial in creating the right environment and to meet the functional needs of your lifestyle. Selecting a durable yet stylish floor for your home can make a tremendous difference to the overall ambience of your home.
Wood floors are mainly preferred for the class and warmth they exude. However, many factors influence the type that is suitable for you. In moist climates, sturdy floors are needed for good performance. If you have kids or pets, you are bound to opt for a floor that cleans easily. This is more so when the floor is to be installed in frequented areas of the home. These include hallways and the living room. In these areas, the floor must be easy to care for and maintain.
The appearance and design of your floorboards is a major feature. Floors with revealing natural wood grain are regarded as highly classy. The popular trend is in the use of coatings that unleash rather than obscure the natural texture of wood. Although the floor remains patterned, a fine finish will give you a timber floor that is remarkably smooth and beautiful.
Timber floors are a popular choice for many dwellers due to the naturally beautiful, warm and cosy ambience they create. Unlike tiled floors, wood floors do not become cold even in chilly months. The versatility of timber also makes it adaptable to suit many design concepts, often with the common goal of creating an ambience that is enduring, classy and comfortable.
Solid Timber Flooring
Despite myriad other timber flooring material options available today, natural solid wood flooring remains a sought after choice for wood lovers who appreciate the natural beauty of its non-uniformity. Varying colour tones and surface patterns naturally created by the wood grain add interest and texture, contributing to the overall design of a home space.
Often viewed as the ‘top-of-the-line’ timber flooring option due to its relatively higher product price range, it is appreciated not just for its beauty but also high durability. One of the main differences between traditional solid wood flooring and its more modern timber counterparts is in the servicing of the floorboards. Worn and dull-looking solid timber flooring can be serviced through buffing/sanding along with the application of new coats of varnish while its other newer types of timber flooring usually do not accommodate any form of servicing and will need to be replaced once worn.
Periodic buffing or sanding and revarnishing of any worn solid wood flooring will have it looking as good as new. When properly maintained, this type of flooring can be enjoyed for years without the need for replacements.
Engineered Hardwood Flooring
Engineered hardwood floors are made with natural wood with the added protection of a scratch-resistant coating. It is another popular option with home owners and contractors as it is reminiscent of solid timber flooring with the added benefit of surface protection from scratches.
It is also favoured by installers for it is less labour intensive and quicker to install compared to traditional solid wood flooring. The consistent floorboard sizes combined with a pre-coated surface that does not scratch or cuff easily removes the need for manual sanding and coating before and after installation, saving both contractors and home owners time and money.
The downside to this type of flooring is that it cannot be sanded down to remove any deep scratches. Not only will sanding remove the factory-applied scratch-resistant coating but also because this type of flooring is commonly made up of laminated layers of wood, with the premium, featured wood species as the top layer to other more economical wood layers below.
Laminate Flooring
This is a good option for homeowners looking for a more affordable flooring option that mimics the appearance of natural wood. As it name suggests, this type of floorboard is laminated with a printed patterned layer on its surface so that it resembles wood. However, instead of solid wood pieces, it is made with compressed wood fibre and resin.
Similar to engineered wood flooring, laminate flooring is also treated with a layer of scratch resistant surface and is not serviceable. Worn or scratched floorboards will need to be replaced. Not all laminate flooring is created equal, however. Those with a high-density fibreboard core is typically stronger and harder than those with a medium-density fibreboard. In addition, the type of wood used to produce the fibreboard also affects its durability, i.e. hardwood vs. softwood.
However, despite its relatively lower price range, good brands of laminate flooring is highly durable. If properly cared for, it can last for years without issues.
Good Customer Service
Apart from selecting the best products to suit your needs when installing your floor, it is a good idea to check out your flooring contractor’s level of expertise. Customer service is another consideration. While it may not be realistic to find a contractor or supplier who will say “yes” to anything you ask for, it is reasonable to at least expect prompt response and a willingness to assist you with any questions or issues you may have pertaining to their products.
A willingness to deliver what has been promised in a polite and professional manner is also an indication of good customer service. Most home or building owners have a budget that they adhere to when designing and renovating their homes and offices. In instances where the home or business owner falls short of price expectations, alternative product recommendations and sound, professional advice from your floor expert are invaluable.