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From the faded tones of ash and oak to the rich darkness of mahogany and teak, wood flooring leaves little to be desired when it comes to style. The texture, grainy pattern, and colour of the floor combine to give you an elegant masterpiece that speaks luxury.
In addition to styles, wood flooring comes in endless patterns, finishes, and species, which is a mixed blessing. While you’re guaranteed to land a floor suitable for your needs, you’ll have a challenging time finding it amidst the vast options. And that’s why we’re here!
We’ll go through the different types of wood flooring for your property, sparing no effort to give you all the information you need. By the time we’re done, you’ll have a perfect idea about the wood flooring type, pattern, species, and finish your property needs, so keep on reading!
Engineered wood flooring combines a thin hardwood layer with one or more plywood layers. The combination of natural and synthetic materials gives you the best of both worlds. You get the boosted durability of plywood and the natural charm of hardwood. On top of that, engineered wood floors come in every shape and style, making them suitable for all types of properties.
Solid wood flooring is made from hardwood species only, without the incorporation of any synthetics. Because of this, it’s stronger than engineered wood and can be refinished multiple times. It’s also resistant to signs of wear, making it ideal for high-traffic properties. However, given its hefty price, it’s rarely seen in commercial and industrial places.
Parquet wood flooring is made from hardwood and arranged in a characteristic geometric mosaic pattern. It flaunts a timeless design that has put it at the top of the flooring industry for years. From managerial offices and lavish commercial settings to elegant residential places, parquet has endless applications. Its only drawback is its expensive price.
Laminate flooring isn’t made of wood; instead, it’s made of a combination of resin, wood, fibreboard, and a design layer. It resembles the grainy appearance of wood, letting homeowners enjoy the charming look and feel of the natural material without paying high prices for it. Better yet, it’s highly versatile and suitable for industrial, commercial, and residential properties.
Vinyl flooring’s selling point is that it combines the natural appearance of wood and the favourable qualities of synthetic materials. It’s mostly made from PVC, along with other synthetics, to boost its durability and resistance. Because of its features and affordable prices, it’s ideal for high-traffic commercial and residential properties.
Reclaimed wood is made from centuries-old wooden structures, giving it a historic charm and rustic appearance like no other type of flooring. Given its recycled nature, it’s an eco-conscious choice, ideal for environmental enthusiasts. It fits like a puzzle in countryside houses and cabins because of its battered look.
Wood effect tiles are manufactured from porcelain but are made to resemble natural wood. They sport unprecedented durability as they’re resistant to scratches, dents, and wear signs. Also, they’re easier to clean and maintain than natural wood because they’re waterproof. Wood effect tiles are most suitable for high-traffic damp rooms, but they don’t boost resale value.
Wood flooring comes in a myriad of patterns and styles that evoke luxurious and cosy feelings. Here’s a roundup of the most famous ones and their intended use.
Herringbone is a sophisticated geometrical pattern, most famously associated with parquet floors. It consists of diagonally laid wood tiles that connect to make a ‘V’ shape. Sometimes, the tiles are coloured in different shades to give the floor a rich, standout style. Because of herringbone’s uncontested elegance, it’s meant for classical residential settings.
Chevron is another famous parquet pattern that consists of diagonally laid wood tiles. However, unlike the puzzle-like appearance of herringbone, the tiles are connected seamlessly without interlocking. From a birds-eye view, it looks more neat than herringbone but lacks its charming and classical character. That’s why it’s best left for modern settings.
Mixed wood floors consist of equally sized wood squares framing narrow tiles that are either laid horizontally or diagonally. They’re a modernised version of herringbone and chevron, making them ideal for contemporary residential interiors.
The most basic wood flooring patterns are horizontal and diagonal. The first one consists of wood planks laid parallel to two walls. Meanwhile, the diagonal pattern consists of planks laid at an angle. It’s pricier to install than the horizontal pattern because wood planks have to be cut to fit the awkward angles. Both are suitable for endless properties because of their simple designs.
Wooden logs are cut at specific angles to produce the unique grainy patterns that you see atop wood floors. The four cutting patterns are plain-sawn, quarter-sawn, rift-sawn, and live-sawn.
The plain-sawn method consists of cutting the log from outside towards its centre, producing tall parallel planks. Once the centre of the log becomes visible, the woodcutter turns it at a 90-degree angle and starts cutting again till all four sides of the log are cut. The resulting planks spot a cathedral-grainy pattern and are affordable because of the easy cutting method.
In this cut, the woodcutter quarters the wood log into four equally sized pieces. Then, they cut each quarter into parallel planks, starting from the outer side and working their way to the centre. This cutting method results in visible growth rings atop each plank, which makes for a unique appearance. Because it’s more challenging than plain-sawn, it’s slightly less affordable.
The rift-sawn method is similar to the quarter-sawn, only the woodcutter cuts planks from the centre towards the outer side, not the other way around. The growth rings also show clearly on the planks. Rift sawing results in a lot of wasted wood, so it costs more than other cutting methods.
Live sawing is the most straightforward wood-cutting method. The cutter cuts the log horizontally into planks without turning it at any angle. Some planks show the tree’s growth rings clearly at various angles, resulting in unique and rustic patterns.
The species of the tree where the wood is taken dictates the floor’s colour, durability, and price. Here’s a detailed roundup of the most famous wood flooring species and their favourable qualities.
Oak flooring sports light golden hues and a dense grain appearance that boosts its resistance to wear. It’s highly affordable because of the wide abundance of oak trees, and you can find it almost anywhere in the world. Given its stylish nature and durability, it’s a famous option in high-traffic residential rooms.
Ash flooring comes in light grey hues and is extremely dense, giving it unprecedented durability and resilience. It absorbs noise better than many types of wood, making it perfect for loud commercial settings like shops and offices. Best of all, it’s as affordable as oak flooring.
Walnut flooring is best known for its rich, chocolatey shades and polished appearance that screams luxury. It’s slightly pricier than average and can be refinished multiple times to change its look. While it’s durable enough for high-traffic areas, it’s prone to scratches. That’s why it’s a better fit for houses with no pets.
Maple flooring features pale sandy tones that go perfectly in contemporary interiors. It has one of the densest wood structures in the world, giving it uncontested strength. That’s why it’s common to see it in bowling alleys and high-traffic places. Better yet, these favourable qualities don’t come at a high price, as maple is reasonably affordable.
Hickory flooring combines light sandy tones, reddish hues, and knotty grains to give you an art piece. In addition to its characteristic appearance, it’s decently durable and resistant to wear signs. For these reasons, it’s a smart option for mid to high-traffic residential properties.
Mahogany flooring is famous for its rich, dark appearance and luxurious feel. It gets darker with age and is favoured in classical residential settings because of its sophisticated aura. However, its best quality is strong resistance to water damage because of its pocketless structure.
Teak flooring has the ‘basic wood’ look with golden brown shades and a grainy texture. It’s most famously used in modern and classic residential interiors because of its durability. One of its finest qualities is that it naturally repels insects and termites. However, it comes at a high price, as teak is one of the priciest types of wood on the market.
Pine flooring features a stylish casual appearance, complemented by golden brown streaks and occasional dark spots. It’s made from softwood, making it comfortable underfoot but prone to scratches and dents. Its selling point is the highly affordable price and versatility. As long as you place it in low or mid-traffic places, you can put it on any property you want.
Cork flooring has a characteristic textured appearance that doesn’t look as grainy as other wood types. It’s a famous choice for kitchens because of its resistance to water and fire. Another favourable quality it holds is its excellent absorbance of shocks and noise. However, it’s pricier than most of the other types.
Bamboo flooring is made from grass, but it sports a woodsy appearance and a rich brown colour. It’s famous in houses because of its high durability and resistance to insects. Also, it can be restyled by removing its finish and applying another one. While it’s resistant to scratches and dents, it’s prone to UV damage if exposed to sunlight for too long.
Most wood floors require a finishing layer for enhanced protection against scratches and wear signs. Luckily, the market doesn’t lack wood flooring finishes. Here’s a rundown of the most common ones.
Natural-oiled wood flooring is covered with a layer of air-dried matt oil to enhance its resistance to scratches. It doesn’t do much to protect against UV damage, unlike other finishes. However, it’s a favourite for many because it preserves the polished, grainy appearance of wood.
UV-oiled wood flooring is covered with the same material as natural-oiled. But the oil is treated with UV light, hardening it and improving its resistance and durability. This finish results in a matte look, concealing the natural shine of the wood.
Brushed and oiled wood flooring has the same protection level as UV-oiled. However, the brushing involved preserves the natural grainy texture of wood without polishing it. Because of this, it’s common in rustic settings.
Lacquered wood flooring is protected by a matte or satin layer that keeps UV damage and darkened spots at bay. It’s also resistant to scratches and signs of wear, making it ideal for high-traffic areas.
After its name, hand-scraped wood flooring is scraped manually, plank by plank. This unique method conceals any existent scratches and dents and boosts the floor’s resistance to wear signs. However, it has a rough texture that’s tougher to clean than polished finishes.
Distressed wood flooring is achieved by scratching the top layer to give the floor a battered and rustic appearance. Like hand scraping, this method hides signs of wear efficiently but results in a rugged texture.
Unfinished wood flooring is installed without a finishing layer. After the flooring installation is complete, the owners take a look at the room and decide on the colour and finish they want. While this method is tricky because the floor stays a while without any protection, it’s more versatile in terms of style.
As you’ve seen, wood flooring is available in many types and patterns, making it a joker of all trades in the renovation business. However, each type of wood flooring is best suited for a specific purpose, as you’ll find out in this section.
Hardwood types are better for kitchens than softwood because they’re more resistant to water damage and scratches. The best and most resilient options out there are oak, maple, and ash.
Oak floors are the best option for living rooms because they combine style and durability. Generally, hard floors are best suited for high-traffic areas because they show signs of wear slower.
Bedrooms are mid-traffic rooms, making softwood floors a perfect option. You can go with bamboo or pine floors if you’re looking for a budget-friendly choice. Meanwhile, mahogany and walnut are ideal options if you don’t mind their high prices.
Wood effect tiles are the best option for bathrooms because they’re made of porcelain, which is waterproof. Natural wood won’t stand a chance against the constant dampness, making synthetic materials a must.
Maple floors are an ideal choice for houses with dogs because they’re extremely durable and resistant to signs of wear. However, it’s still recommended you keep your dog’s nails short if you have natural wood floors.
Hard types of wood like oak, walnut, maple, and hickory are ideal for you if you have children. They’re comfortable underfoot and absorb impacts well. Also, they don’t show signs of wear easily.
Engineered wood flooring is a wise choice for wet environments because it’s partially made from synthetic materials. It combines the elegance of natural wood with the water resistance of synthetics, giving you the best of both worlds.
Bamboo and pine wood floors are among the cheapest on the market because of the abundance of their source plants. They’re both an ideal option for limited budgets.
Walnut, teak, and mahogany are among the priciest wood flooring types on the market. Also, as a rule of thumb, solid wood floors cost more than engineered floors because they’re made solely of natural materials.
Solid hardwood floors like hickory and walnut are the most durable options on the market. They’re your best bet if you want your floors to last years without showing signs of wear.
The choice between engineered and solid wood depends on your needs and budget. Solid wood is the better choice for high-traffic areas because it’s more durable and scratch-resistant. However, it’s pricey. Meanwhile, engineered wood is more affordable but better suited for low to mid-traffic areas.
If you prioritise style and longevity, then engineered hardwood floors are the best choice for you, given that they resemble natural wood and can last up to 100 years. However, if you have a limited budget and prioritise practicality, you can go with laminate, which is more resistant to wear. In the end, the choice depends on your needs.
Wood floors have an unbeatable charm in the renovation industry. They come in a myriad of designs and patterns to satisfy every taste. On top of that, they’re suitable for a wide range of applications. If you’re having a hard time choosing the right wood flooring for your property, our guide will lead you to the best fit according to your needs!
Also, if you’re renovating your floors and want professional help, set up a free consultation with us today!
Wooden floors are one of the oldest yet timeless materials that can last decades with proper care. You’ll also find different variations to match your budget and interior design. But without the right details about this material, you risk choosing a style that isn’t fit for your property.
We’ll guide you through the different wood flooring styles and types to help you learn and select the best pattern, finish, design, and colour to upgrade your space and make your home more cosy.
You’ll find several patterns available to make your space look bigger or smaller or compliment your room’s decor, from straight and random to chevron and basketweave. Check out the following wood flooring pattern options:
If you’re having difficulty choosing a pattern, straight patterns are a classic and timeless parquet that’ll never go out of style. It’s the simplest option that makes your small space look bigger, with planks arranged side by side, running parallel. And although the boards may have different lengths, they’re installed with a long dimension parallel to the longest wall in your room.
This parquet pattern draws your attention from the walls, making your space look wider and hiding issues like cracks or uneven subfloors. The planks are laid at an angle to the walls and are usually made of hardwoods like oak, maple, and cherry.
A random parquet pattern is your best bet if you aren’t afraid to try something new and unique. The planks have different widths and lengths, carefully planned to seemingly laid randomly, creating a natural, rustic, and sophisticated look.
It’s more suited to large and irregular-shaped rooms because they make your small space look cluttered and disguise its irregular shape.
This classic parquet option looks elegant with its narrow and long planks arranged in a V-shaped pattern like the skeleton of a herring fish. Despite its size and shape, you can apply this pattern to any room, especially large ones, because it makes small spaces look cluttered. It may also have a busy look, so it’s important to use simple and uncluttered furniture.
A chevron pattern has wood planks cut at a 45-degree angle, laid in a V-shape, and fitted to create a continuous zigzag. If you have a small room, applying this parquet flooring pattern will make it look and feel larger, but you may need narrower boards for a better effect.
Your finish will also affect how your floors look and feel. For instance, a natural finish will show off the grain pattern, while a stained one adds colour and depth.
If you want your home to feel warm and cosy, a brick parquet pattern will give you this effect and make your room look more spacious. The planks are laid in a running bond pattern so the joints don’t line up, creating a checkerboard-like effect.
You can create this parquet pattern by arranging wooden blocks like the weave of a basket or in a series of interlocking squares. The outcome has different sizes, from small, intricate designs to large, bold patterns.
Basketweave is a good choice for luxury properties or stylish floors that will raise your home’s market value.
Once you’re done picking your favourite pattern, consider the overall look or feel you want for your flooring. The design can be anything from a traditional to a modern look and will affect the type of planks you choose, the way they’re arranged, and the finish you need.
Here are examples of different wood flooring designs:
After installing your flooring, you need to apply a protective coating/finish to highlight its beauty and make it last longer. You may choose different finishes with unique properties, from natural oiled to unfinished wood flooring. Take a look at the following examples:
This finish is a natural oil made from tung, linseed, or walnut. It’s a sustainable choice with a low VOC compared to chemical finishes that you can re-apply at home without hiring a professional. Instead of giving your floors a thick, glossy layer, it highlights your floors’ natural beauty.
This oil finish is cured with ultraviolet (UV) light, making it more durable and resistant to scratches, stains, and fading than natural oil. The best part is it doesn’t need constant reapplying like a natural oil finish, and you can clean it with a mild soap and water solution.
The flooring is lightly brushed to remove the top, soft grains, exposing the more durable and textured grain and making your floors look rustic. The wood is then finished with oil to protect it from scratches, scuffs, and spills.
Lacquer is a clear, hard finish made by mixing resins, solvents, and various pigments. It protects your wooden floors from scratches, stains, and moisture and gives them a shiny or matte finish.
Some popular species that go well with a lacquered finish are oak, maple, and walnut, as they’re common in commercial spaces with high-traffic areas like restaurants and hotels.
This material is intentionally distressed to give your floors a rustic, worn look. The wood is scraped by hand using a sharp blade to remove the top surface, leaving behind a textured finish.
Hand scraped wood flooring may camouflage small scratches or dents on your floors but is more difficult to maintain than other options.
This finish uses hand scraping, wire brushing, and sanding techniques to age your floors and give them a rustic or vintage look. It’s a popular choice for those with kids or pets, as the distressed look will disguise scratches and scuffs.
If you want all-natural floors, you can get wood planks that aren’t stained or finished. Unfinished wood is more affordable than prefinished flooring, and you can choose the stain to customise your floors.
The only downside is that without staining or finishing, your flooring is more susceptible to damage from wear and tear, so it’s not a good fit if you have kids or pets.
You have two main wood flooring colour options, light or dark, depending on the species, age of the wood, tree location, grain pattern, and finish.
This flooring has a pale or blond colour, ranging from almost white to light brown, depending on the wood species and your choice of finish. Check out the common species with a light tone:
This shade of wood has a rich, warm, and inviting tone and comes from dark wood species. Here are some examples:
Lighter wood floors are what’s trending in most homes this year. Check out some other options currently in style:
Red tones are growing less popular across homes this year because they’re difficult to decorate and match with the rest of the interior. Here are other options falling out of style:
Medium-toned browns like oak, maple, and mahogany are timeless because you can match your floors with any decor. Here are other options:
Some styles have become less popular over the years, and only a few homeowners adore them today. Check out these examples:
Wide planks are long, thick boards popular for modern homes because they make a room look more spacious. Here are other options that are also currently in style:
You’re now ready to start shopping for your new wooden floors. But remember that what you see online may not always work for your home. You need to get samples and compare them to your walls and furniture before buying, lest you end up with the wrong material.
If you need an honest opinion and professional wood flooring installation, contact us today to talk to our experts. We’re always happy to be of service.
Wooden floors can elevate the comfort and aesthetic appeal of any room you install them in, courtesy of their timelessness and elegance. Not only that, but they’re also resilient and can last for decades with proper care. How much does wood flooring cost, though?
If you’re planning your next renovation project and wondering about that, you’ve come to the right place. We’ll explain the different available wood options, how much each costs, and more.
Let’s start!
Below are the most commonly installed wood floor types. The price ranges reflect the cost of materials only! Installation can add another £15 to £30 per square metre.
Engineered wood flooring costs around £20 to £80 per square metre.
It’s a type of wood flooring composed of a thin hardwood veneer layer. This layer is bonded with layers of plywood, fibreboard, or oriented strand board. It’s more stable and moisture-resistant than solid wood, but the materials it’s composed of aren’t as durable, justifying its lower price point.
Another downside to engineered wood is that you can’t resurface it as much due to its veneer layer’s thickness. Still, it’s an excellent option for homeowners looking for a cheaper alternative to solid wood or a more authentic flooring solution for moisture-prone areas.
Solid wood flooring starts at £35 but can go well over £100 per square metre, depending on the wood species. It’s among the most expensive flooring solutions, courtesy of its high-end, luxurious appearance and appeal.
Your solid wood floor will be made of planks of natural wood cut from a single piece of timber. Each wood species has its own characteristics. We’re talking about durability, appearance, and resistance. So, that’s one thing to consider when investing in a solid wood floor.
Other than that, you should be aware that it’s also prone to warping and shrinking due to temperature and humidity changes.
Parquet is among the most elegant flooring solutions available due to its rich history and decorative nature. It comes at a steeper cost, though. Material-wise, its price ranges from £20 to £80 per square metre, but it depends on the brand and wood species.
Labour is the primary concern when installing parquet, as it’s pieces of wood arranged in geometric patterns.
Contemporary and highly decorated designs can set you back several thousand unless you opt for prefabricated parquet tiles that already feature designs within them.
Laminate is one of the cheapest options available for budget-conscious homeowners looking to enhance the look of their floors because it offers a multitude of options.
While low-end brands start at £15 per square metre, you can find high-end laminate that feels and performs great around the £80 price mark. It’s made of synthetic materials that mimic the appearance of hardwood.
Despite that, it’s durable, easy to install, and decently resistant to scratches and stains. It’s not completely waterproof, though; clean up any water or spills quickly so as not to damage it.
Similarly to laminate, vinyl offers an alternative for budget-conscious homeowners looking to give character to their rooms while navigating the expenses that authentic hardwood floors bring.
It’s a synthetic material that can imitate the appearance of wood. But a few advantages it has over wood include its comfort, ease of cleaning, lifespan, and durability.
It starts at a very affordable price of £10 per square metre, but higher-quality rolls and LVT can cost up to £60. It’s also waterproof and more resistant to fading and warping. Remember that it’s less eco-friendly; vinyl is made from materials that emit Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs).
This wood is salvaged from old buildings and barns, where it was perhaps redundant. It can be anything from a piece of furniture to even a boat or trailer. So, the quality, cost, and appearance of the wood depend on the source and its condition.
Generally, it costs from £20 to £80 because, despite being real wood, it’s recycled—pests, hidden dangers, and such are concerns. But if eco-friendliness and uniqueness are qualities you’d love your next wooden floor to have, reclaimed wood is an option.
Wood-effect tiles are ceramic or porcelain tiles that carry the design of a wooden floor. Not only are they customisable, but their durability, resistance to moisture and stains, and waterproof quality are welcome among homeowners.
Compared to other solutions, they’re mid-range in terms of cost. They start at £10, but higher-end brands may cost up to £60 per square metre. Of course, such brands are better at mimicking the appearance of different wood species with their realistic textures and patterns.
Yes, it can.
Complex patterns are more intricate and elaborate, requiring more skill and time from your contractor to install. Expect to throw in an extra £10 to £50 per square metre on top of installation costs because of them.
Some common wood flooring patterns and styles homeowners love include:
Yes!
Some treatments are more expensive and require frequent applications. They can enhance your floor’s beauty and protect it from wear and tear. Some finishes and treatments include:
The prices above reflect material costs only! You may need to pay an extra £10 to £20 per square metre for labour.
You guessed it!
Some types of wood have different prices depending on their availability and durability. Similarly, some species just look and perform better than others.
Here are a few examples:
It depends.
Your choices are nearly unlimited, considering the number of available wood species, flooring types, patterns, and finishes. You should also consider whether you need to remove your current flooring or level your subfloor.
First, consider the cost of materials. For example, engineered wood is cheaper than solid wood, so installing an engineered wood floor will be much more affordable.
Experts will also suggest buying more material than your floor requires to be prepared for any eventualities. 10% more than your floor space needs should suffice.
Labour costs are next. Most professionals will charge you between £15 and £30 per square metre in installation costs. However, these rates are estimates; different contractors will charge you different prices.
Contractors will also charge you extra if you need to remove your current flooring or skirting boards, level or treat your floor, install underlayment, or trim your doors. Except for trimming doors, which is slightly more expensive, these services shouldn’t exceed £30 per square metre.
To sum it up, installing a wooden floor in a 17.09 m² room in the U.K. can cost anywhere from £1,200 for cheaper solutions like laminate to over £8,000 if you’re using high-end Macassar Ebony.
If you’re stumped, contact us. We’ll give you a free quote and help you find the best solution for your situation.
Yes.
Some rooms are more complex to renovate than others, either due to size, design, or condition.
Large rooms will require more material and labour, increasing the cost. Similarly, some rooms may have more obstacles or corners, making the installation more difficult and costly.
If a room’s floor is damaged, uneven, or needs to be removed, the extra preparation work will incur additional costs. The room’s location plays a role, too. The more accessible and convenient a room is, the easier it is for your contractor to renovate it.
It depends!
You need underlay with some wood flooring types, such as laminate and engineered wood, as well as for rough, uneven, and damp subfloors.
Some flooring types usually don’t need underlayment, as is the case for solid wood, unless your subfloor is damaged or you’d like to enhance the flooring’s comfort and durability. But, for the most part, underlay is recommended for most wood flooring installations.
Yes, but we recommend against it if you’re not skilled.
Let’s see some factors to consider when DIYing.
However, if you’re confident in your abilities and have all the necessary tools and materials, you’ll save a lot on labour costs.
Yes, but it depends on your flooring type; you must maintain some floors more frequently than others.
Also, factors like refinishing, sanding, and restoring your floor play a role in the final maintenance cost.
Your need to restore your floor depends on its condition. Sometimes, cleaning and repolishing it would suffice. Other times, you might need an expert to repair it.
Cleaning is a given; you must clean your floor regularly to remove dust, dirt, and stains. Fortunately, this isn’t expensive, as most homeowners have a vacuum cleaner, a broom, and a mop, and the cost of cleaning products doesn’t exceed £15.
Some wood flooring types require frequent polishing to maintain their durability and visual appeal. You can do this yourself by buying a polishing pad and a suitable polish product; contact your manufacturer for advice regarding which products to use. Wood floor polish costs around £20 per litre, but expect cost differences across brands.
Renovations can be fairly expensive. After all, you’ll likely redo the floor of an entire room. Depending on your current floor’s and subfloor’s condition, your desired floor type, material, and finish, and the size of your room, you can expect renovations to cost from £800 to well over £6,000.
Sanding wood floors is usually part of the refinishing process. Usually, this process costs around £20 or more per square metre.
The primary benefit of sanding your floor is that it evens it out and removes any scratches and stains. But it also opens up the possibility of choosing a different refinishing method.
You should refinish your wood flooring every few years to improve its appearance, durability, and your home’s value. Experts suggest that you do this every five years.
This process involves sanding, staining, and sealing the wood flooring, which can cost you from £20 to £35 per square metre. Your choice of finish can also add to the final bill; lacquer is significantly more expensive than oil.
Repairs can be pricier. You’ll likely need to replace your planks or tiles if you damage your flooring. So, buying new materials and hiring a contractor are to be expected. The costs will depend on your floor type and condition and the material used.
Repairing damaged floors may require a few touch-ups that range from £100 to well over £1,000.
A lacquered solid wood floor is the most expensive flooring option, especially if you pick a luxurious wood species.
As for materials, zebra wood (~£210/m² or more) and Macassar Ebony (~£1260/m² or more) are among the most expensive wood species and will significantly increase your flooring costs if you opt for them.
Solid wood is more expensive than engineered wood. The former costs around £35 to £100, while the latter is cheaper at £20 to £80 per square metre.
The cheapest “wood” floors are vinyl and laminate. They’re synthetic floors that mimic the look of natural wood and start at around £10 to £80 per square metre.
You can get the cheapest vinyl option for about £10 per square metre, but higher-end vinyl can cost upwards of £45 per square metre.
This makes it much cheaper than wood floors, which start at a similar price and can exceed £100 per square metre.
Laminate is among the cheapest flooring materials, but higher-end options can cost as much as some mid-quality wood species.
You can also install a laminate floor that mimics the appearance of wood. Low-quality laminate starts at around £15, while high-end laminate tiles can reach £80.
Carpet flooring costs from £4 to £40 per square metre. Premium options can cost upwards of £50. This makes it less expensive than most wooden floors, which range from £15 to £100 per square metre.
Concrete floors are more expensive than wooden floors, primarily due to the polishing process. Since it has to be poured, polished, and then sealed, it’ll cost you £135 per square metre on average.
Most wooden floors don’t exceed £100 per square metre unless you opt for a rare species.
Despite its high cost, installing a wooden floor in one of your rooms is among the best ways to give it a touch of elegance and warmth. While budget-conscious owners have more affordable options, such as engineered wood and laminate, solid wood and parquet floors are available to those willing to go all in.
At Ultimate Flooring, we deliver exceptional flooring options and truly bespoke service at competitive prices. Visit us for all your flooring needs!
Wood flooring has been one of the most popular choices for a while now. This doesn’t come as a surprise when we consider its timeless look, its impact on your home value, and its warm ambience.
Still, should you pick wood floors for your house? Learning all about timber flooring will enable you to make this choice. We’ll join you on your quest to choose flooring for your property, so let’s begin.
This table illustrates how wood stands out on several fronts.
| Aesthetics | Wood is elegant, timeless, warm, and classic. |
| Flexibility | It has numerous finishes, colours, grains, and stains. |
| Durability | With proper maintenance, wood floors can last a lifetime. |
| Health | Wood doesn’t trigger allergies or worsen respiratory issues, thanks to its repulsion of dust and allergies. |
| Home Value | Wood floors increase your home resale value, giving you a good return on investment (ROI). |
| Comfort | Timber floors have a soft underfoot. |
Understanding the drawbacks of wood floors will help you make the right choice.
| Cost | Wood flooring involves high upfront costs. |
| Scratching | It develops scratches and gouges gradually from furniture, shoes, and so on. |
| Moisture Damage | Water can cause wood to swell or cup. |
| Maintenance | You need to get your flooring resealed or reshaped in case of damage. |
We can classify wood floors into various subtypes. Each has its distinct features, which you must be aware of if you want to choose the right flooring type for you.
Engineered wood floors are made from a thin veneer hardwood layer over several layers of composite materials and plywood. You can install them anywhere but bathrooms.
Solid wood floorings are solid wood planks that are linked with a tongue and groove along the side. Install them anywhere other than humid areas and over concrete floors.
This flooring is processed wood taken from its original application and repurposed in your home the way solid flooring is.
Timber floors come in diverse species. Each has its unique texture, appearance, pros, and cons. Some are harder and more durable, while others are softer. Understanding them will help you make the right wood flooring choice for your property.
Oak is a wood species that has a nice natural colour and stains well. Oak flooring comes in white and red variations. Use it in living rooms, dining rooms, hallways, and walkways.
Ash flooring is typically available in light shades but stains well. You’ll love how it complements contemporary designs.
Walnut has a soft texture and a warm tone. It adds aesthetic appeal to any room you want, but make sure it isn’t one with heavy foot traffic.
Sometimes called sugar maple, hard maple has an even, thin grain and a light, creamy shade. You’ll find it on basketball courts.
Hickory floors have sporadic grains and hues that differ across planks from the same package. They look their best in open areas and accommodate the needs of high-traffic rooms.
Mahogany wood floors are known for their rich colour and grain and soft feel.
Teak is a gorgeous wood floor species featuring rich golden brown tones. Installing it in mudrooms is a great idea.
Pine floors lean more towards softwood floors than hardwood ones. They come in light tones and a uniform grain. They’re suitable for bedrooms and excellent in sunrooms.
You’ll find cork floors in light and dark tones featuring a unique familiar grain. They’re suitable for installation anywhere in your house other than bathrooms.
Although classified as grass, bamboo passes for wood because of its hardness. This flooring option is available in manila, yellow, and dark tones. Install it anywhere but in wet rooms.
Let’s cover the various patterns and designs of wood floors so that you can better visualise them in your house and decide on the right one. Each type has its installation difficulties, intricate designs, and more.
In a parquet pattern, manufacturers lay the planks straight or diagonally in a pattern. Many homeowners love their geometric effects. Traditionally, workers would install parquet one piece at a time. However, modern parquet is almost ready-made as tiles with a backing material holding the wood slats in place. It comes in diverse patterns, including:
Herringbone patterns are the most widespread in Europe. The bricks are laid in a V-shaped pattern, which requires placing blocks perpendicular to one another. If you have an open space, a herringbone floor signals a separate area, dividing the space.
In chevron patterns, bricks are laid at 45 degrees from one another, and people often get them mixed up with herringbone patterns. They’re appropriate for formal living rooms, reception halls, and dining rooms.
Mixed-width patterns feature planks of different widths. You install them horizontally, and the process is super simple. They look great in large rooms with high ceilings.
As the name implies, you can lay wood planks in horizontal stripes. This classic pattern gives a room the illusion of space, which is excellent for small spaces. Also, it works with almost any hardwood or hardwood alternative.
As for diagonal stripe patterns, they’re laid with a 45-degree angle to the room edge. Both patterns are easy to install, thanks to the click-together technique.
Flooring finishes are coatings that enhance the wood features and its aesthetic appeal. Whereas leaving solid wood floors unfinished is an option, some people opt for any of the following finishes:
A natural oil finish is the traditional choice, giving your floor a natural, timeless look. You’ll need to reapply it often, but retreatment is easy. Use it in rooms without much sunlight because it can’t protect your wood against the sun.
Ultraviolet oiled finishes bring out the natural colour of wood with a matte finish, create a warm underfoot, and are durable. Their durability equips them for cottages, lake houses, and suburban and urban homes.
You can brush and oil wood floors to accentuate their wood grain, giving them texture. These flooring finishes are super popular, especially in busy households with frequent dents and scratches.
Lacquered finishes add durability to your wood. They render it splash and scratch-resistant and slow down the discolouration caused by sun exposure. Lacquer finishes come in slightly glossy (satin) and matt finishes.
Manufacturers use a technique called hand scraping to give wood a vintage, distressed, and worn look. It adds character to your flooring. Also, wear and tear adds to this flooring finish’s charm, so you may pick it for high-traffic areas.
Via ageing, wire brushing, sculpting, or hand scraping, your wood can have a rustic distressed look. This finish is perfect for contemporary spaces, infusing them with warmth.
As we’ve mentioned, you can purchase your wood floors untreated. This way, you can apply a custom stain before treating them with several coats of a protective finish. Unfinished floors suit kitchens, as the finish you’ll apply will help seal the seams between the planks, minimising water damage.
Choosing the right grain pattern is integral to making wood flooring work for your home. After all, the cut impacts the pattern of the wood planks. Cut patterns describe the angle of the saw to the log, which alters the grain appearance.
In a plainsawn plank, manufacturers cut the log flat down the centre of the log. Accordingly, planks have diverse grain patterns, such as cathedrals and arched grain in the board’s middle.
Quarter sawn logs are cut at a radial angle into four quarters, which explains the name. The interesting ray flecks give planks a dramatic edge.
Rift sawn wood is the product of using a radical cutting pattern. To illustrate, each board is perpendicular to the log’s concentric annual growth ring (the circles on the wood log resulting from the formation of new cells). As a homeowner, you’ll see straight grain lines.
This European approach involves cutting off the log in a single direction. To you, this cut features the full range of a log’s grain. And it’s a great choice if you’re on a budget.
To decide whether you should install wood in your home, you must look at how wood flooring will benefit you. So, here are the benefits of wood flooring.
Residential wood flooring refers to timber floors that accommodate domestic use and your home needs. These floors experience less spillage and damage and get less foot traffic than commercial floors. So, homeowners typically opt for solid hardwood variations, but engineered wood flooring also works.
Commercial wood floors are designed with the requirements of commercial and industrial work sites in mind, such as offices and warehouses. They need to be highly durable and withstand heavy foot traffic, pressure, spillage, humidity, and moisture.
Engineered hardwood resists humidity, so it doesn’t expand and contract like solid hardwood. It’s also more durable, long-lasting, and stable, with a low risk of buckles and gaps.
Knowing the main brands producing wood floors will facilitate the purchasing process. The biggest wood floor manufacturers are as follows:
Wood flooring prices can be anything from £30 to £85 per metre square, with luxury wood options, such as bamboo flooring, reclaimed hardwood, and hand-scraped wood, being on the high end of prices. Ultimately, the exact price depends on the wood species, brand, cut, and finish.
Yes, you can find cheap wood floors. You can buy unfinished solid hardwood and sand, stain, and seal it yourself. Another idea is engineering wood floors that click-lock together, as you can easily install them and save on labour costs.
Yes, you can get luxury wood flooring if you look into the exotic varieties. After all, they’re extracted from diverse species around the world, such as Kempas and Tigerwood. Other luxury options are reclaimed hardwood and hand-scraped wood because of their difficult manufacturing processes.
On average, you can expect to pay £20/m² or more for a professional installation. But different wood types have unique installation costs, which explains the varying prices. For instance, parquet, which is difficult to install, costs £30/m² to £35/m².
Wood floors increase your home value if you take care of them. With proper maintenance, wood flooring can live forever and appreciate over time, boosting your home’s resale value. For that reason, it’s an excellent choice with a good return on investment.
Different wood types and species force you to use different installation techniques. Nonetheless, we can give you an overview of how to lay wood floors.
You must prepare the wood planks and the flooring base for the wood floor installation process as follows:
No, it isn’t always necessary, but it’s a worthwhile investment, enhancing its features. That is unless you have floating wood floors, which are usually installed with underlayment.
No, you can take on the installation yourself, but it’s an advanced DIY project. You’ll need to buy or rent some equipment and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for installation.
Maintaining your wood floors is necessary if you don’t want them to look dull. So make sure to follow these tips:
A hardwood floor requires frequent cleaning because it shows dirt and dust more than others; however, the cleaning process is simple. You’ll only need to:
Wood floors can last 50 to 100 years, but the exact lifespan depends on several factors, which are as follows:
Wood flooring restoration is a process that retrieves your floor’s original shine and takes care of wear and tear. Sanding the floor is an option, but it’s messy. Recoating it is a better idea. Professional restorations may include mechanical adhesion, in which professionals lightly abrade a wood floor.
Periodic renovations are crucial if you want your flooring to remain in good condition. Professionals can conduct some measures to renovate your floor, which are sanding (to remove the old finish and give you a smooth surface), staining (to ensure consistent colouration), drying, and sealing your wood floors (via a protective coat).
Yes, you can stain your floor in your chosen colour to give it an edge. Make sure you purchase unfinished wood floor types so that you have these customisation options.
It’s very efficient, lasting you up to a lifetime if you maintain it regularly. It’s also sustainable, as it’s extracted from wood flooring, a renewable source. Not to mention, wood absorbs heat well, which means it’s energy-efficient and will help keep your home warm in winter and cool in summer.
Yes, wood flooring is environmentally friendly as long as it’s harvested and managed responsibly. Even better, when you remove trees, that makes room for younger ones to grow. Then, they’ll produce more oxygen and absorb more carbon dioxide, enhancing the atmospheric output of the area.
It’s hard to answer that question without considering several factors and your circumstances, so let’s get more specific.
No, pets can easily scratch your wood flooring surface with their claws. And they can slip or slide because it’s slippery.
Yes, it’s arguably perfect for kids because it’s easy to clean with a damp cloth. You can dust and sweep it to clean off any spillage or accidents.
No, wood flooring isn’t a good fit for high-traffic areas because its finish will wear off fast and its colour will fade.
No, wood expands with moisture exposure and experiences swelling and cupping, so you shouldn’t install it in bathrooms and wet rooms.
These flooring products have the effect of wood, and they’re a relatively new trend. They mimic the look and feel of wood, thanks to their high-definition images and the groves on their surface. Even better, they don’t come with the drawbacks of real wood, such as high maintenance, low durability, and low slip resistance.
Laminate flooring is composed of a particleboard wood base with an image layer and a transparent wear layer on top. The base is wood, and the appearance resembles wood, which explains why it’s sometimes called laminate wood flooring. This flooring type is super popular in living rooms, bedrooms, kitchens, and dining rooms.
Short for luxury vinyl tile, LVT emulates real wood flooring without taking on its impracticalities. To explain, LVT flooring grants you an elegant design with low maintenance, high durability, and water resistance, withstanding spills and leaks. It’s also easy to customise, creating unique flooring patterns.
Vinyl floors are synthetic products that assume the look of wood. They contain four layers: backing, waterproof, design, and wear layers. With high durability, functionality, moisture resistance, and affordability, they’ve gained increasing popularity.
Ultimately, determining whether wood is the right choice for your property relies on numerous factors. These include the flooring species, cut, finish, and installation, location, moisture level, and more. So, consider these factors to make your choice. If you’re unsure, contact us at The Ultimate Flooring; we’ll be happy to guide you!
