With so many different types of hard flooring out there, it can often be a daunting task to choose the right one – especially if you are a new home buyer or builder. However, there’s no need to worry, the Floors of Distinction team have you covered!
Truth be told, there is no clear cut answer to which type of hard flooring is the best overall. Every home and family will have their own unique needs, preferences and circumstances that influence the ultimate decision. With that said, below are some of the unique attributes and benefits to help you decide which type of hard flooring that is right for your property.
Solid Timber
Arguably the most recognised floorboard, solid timber flooring has been around for decades. Solid timber has numerous characteristics that would make it a good selection for your property. Perhaps the biggest draw of solid timber is the appearance, with its neutral colours and aesthetic appeal it makes decorating around simple. In addition, hardwood timber flooring acts as an insulator, keeping in more heat than any other flooring types during the winter. While this type of hard flooring may be more expensive to install upfront, timber flooring enhances the value of your home down the line (when you decide to sell it that is).
Currently, there is a trend around lighter-coloured timbers and brown tones, while wide boards are more desirable than thinner ones. We’ve installed and supplied a vast range of premium timber flooring throughout Perth, with many of our projects available for viewing at our timber gallery!
Engineered Boards
A modern alternative to solid hardwood floors, engineered flooring provide a versatile and hard-wearing board that can be used in a variety of locations. One of the biggest differences between engineered boards and solid timber is that engineered boards are two or more layers of wood bonded together under pressure. Layers which aren’t visible tend to be cheaper plywood that can add to the stability of the board, while also reducing the cost. These boards are especially popular in Australia due to their versatility, price and longevity. Engineered flooring looks incredible and is perfect for families with pets, young children and a smaller budget.
Vinyl
Vinyl flooring provides a cost-effective flooring alternative to the more expensive real timber options. The main difference between vinyl and laminate comes in the materials they are made out of. With vinyl being composed of 100% synthetic plastic compared to the core layer of rigid wood and resins found in laminate. Furthermore, laminate floors lack the water-resistant properties found in luxury vinyl, which is why we would suggest vinyl flooring for wet locations.
Despite its lower price point, vinyl is still a great choice as it is hard-wearing, easy to maintain and suitable for both wet and dry areas at a fraction of timber’s pricing. What’s more is, if you ever damage a vinyl plank, they are easy to fix – all you need to do is pop it out and replace it with a new one. If you’re interested in learning more about the pros and cons of vinyl flooring, read our previous blog here!
Laminate
The timber ‘look’ laminate flooring has come leaps and bounds since its inception many years ago. It allows you to get the texture and aesthetic of popular wood grains at a fraction of the price. On top of that, laminate flooring also tends to be low maintenance with no sanding or polishing needed. Similar to vinyl flooring, laminate is relatively easy to install with less surface preparation required than that of its timber counterparts. When compared to vinyl floors, laminate floors are generally considered more comfortable to walk on and have a more realistic wooden look. However, it is important to consider the area of use, as laminate flooring lacks the water resistant qualities of vinyl.
Consider laminate floors for your property if you are looking for low maintenance, cost-effective alternative to solid timber flooring, for use in mainly dry areas.
Hybrid
Believe us, hybrid waterproof flooring is in right now and will be for years to come. Combining the best of what laminate and vinyl have to offer, the hybrid is ideal for new home builders and modern renovations. With a 100% waterproof composition, hybrid is also extremely durable, effortless to clean and visually aesthetic, making the hard flooring perfect for the entire home and not just wet areas. If you’re after a durable hard flooring option which is as functional and practical as it’s revolutionary, hybrid waterproof flooring is the type for you!
So there you have it! All of the hard flooring types listed are great options that will improve the look and feel of any property. We hope our breakdown has helped clarify some of your flooring questions and that you’ve found the right type for your property!
Now that you know the type, it’s time to determine which range and colour. We stock colours from Big River, Embelton, Woodpecker, Inovar amongst many more flooring suppliers. Contact us online or check out our showroom at 6/10 Discovery Dr, Bibra Lake, WA – one of the Floors of Distinction experts will happily walk you through our options.