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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!
Before diving into a home renovation project or upgrading a commercial space, it’s important to assess the flooring cost.
The prices of flooring vary, depending on many different factors, such as the room size, type of flooring materials, cost of installation, and location of the property.
Whether you’re a homeowner, property manager, or just someone with a curious mind, join us as we break down the financial aspects of purchasing, installing, replacing, and maintaining various types of flooring.
Buying new flooring to replace the old one ranges between £400 to £3,000. However, the total amount depends on the following factors:
Various flooring options are available for residential and commercial buildings. They include hardwood, vinyl, luxury vinyl tile (LVT), and laminate flooring. Below, we’ll discuss the different flooring materials and how much they cost.
Laminate flooring is a composite or hybrid flooring material. It consists of a wood base, an image layer, and a tough protective layer. Some brands come with a backing or an underlayment for soundproofing or moisture resistance.
When it comes to cost, you can get laminate flooring for as low as £15 per square metre and as high as £80 per square metre. The real cost depends on several factors, such as:
If you want flooring that comes close to natural wood or stone, then vinyl flooring is your best bet. It’s a popular synthetic flooring material with four layers: the backing, the waterproof layer, the image layer, and the wear layer. Vinyl is resistant to water and stains and requires low maintenance.
Cheap vinyl flooring is available at £10 per square metre. But you can get the more expensive options from £30 per square metre. Bear in mind that several factors may determine the price. They include:
Known for its underfoot softness and warmth, carpet is a textile flooring material consisting of a pile of wool, olefin, polyester, or nylon. It’s attached to a backing, which dampens noise in any room where it’s fixed.
The flooring material is among the most affordable you can find on the market, ranging between £6 to £50 per square metre. You should consider the following factors when purchasing carpet flooring:
Luxury vinyl tile, LVT for short, is a hard wearing material that’s thin and flexible and takes the semblance of natural hardwood and stones. It’s designed in a tile style and the multiple layers provide improved features such as resistance to moisture, spills, stains, and scratches. Also, it’s 100% waterproof, which makes it ideal for bathrooms, kitchens, and basements.
Although it’s a luxury product, LVT is quite affordable and ranges between £15 to £60 per square metre. Factors that could affect the final cost are:
Derived from linseed oil, linoleum (lino) is an all-natural flooring material that’s often mistaken for vinyl flooring. The main ingredient is mixed with wood flour, crushed limestone, cork dust, and pine resin, which makes it completely biodegradable. Additionally, the material is durable, water and scratch resistant, and possesses antimicrobial qualities.
Although lino is available from £10 to £30 per square metre, you should consider these points before setting your budget:
One popular type of flooring among homeowners is wood flooring. It’s made from natural wood, lends a timeless appearance to a property, and increases its resale value. You can find it in various styles, colours, and textures, but it’s either sold as solid wood or engineered wood.
You can purchase natural wood between £35 to £120 per square metre. However, many factors influence the actual price. They include the following:
Stone flooring is cut from natural stones like granite, marble, travertine, sandstone, and limestone. It possesses inherent qualities like durability, heat retention, and resistance to humidity.
The cost of stone flooring ranges from £40 to £120 per square metre, but other things determine the actual cost. We’ve highlighted a few factors below.
Popular in garages and basements, polished concrete flooring has found its way into home interiors. Although it’s cold under the feet, concrete is durable and easy to maintain.
A contractor may quote between £50 to £160 per square metre for concrete flooring supplies. But the total estimate may be higher depending on the following:
Resin flooring is a mixture of synthetic resin and hardener to create a thick surface. It may also include cement powder, pigments, and decorations.
This flooring type is cheap, ranging between £7 to £120 per square metre. The available options are MMA, epoxy, and polyurethane. Because they possess different qualities, the price gap seems wide. However, you should consider other factors before making a buying decision.
You should expect to spend between £300 and £1,000 when fitting new flooring, depending on a lot of factors, such as:
Maintaining flooring costs between £4 and £30, which is basically the price range for floor cleaning products. You may also get a mop set, which costs an average of £26. Since all you need to do is sweep or vacuum regularly, damp mop, insert furniture pads to prevent scratches, and clean spills immediately, you don’t necessarily need to hire a professional for floor maintenance.
Other things may increase the cost of floor maintenance. They include:
Professional floor cleaning costs between £2 to £5 per square metre. It involves moving furniture, scrubbing, polishing, and deep cleaning, depending on the type of flooring. Other factors that contribute to the cost of cleaning flooring are as follows:
You should budget between £70 to £500 for flooring repairs. Small gouges and scratches due to daily use require minor repairs, little effort, and a few resources. However, deep gouges may require refinishing, resanding, resealing, or restaining, which takes more time, special tools, and expertise.
The total amount you’ll spend on repairing flooring depends on the following:
Flooring restoration could be as low as £40 and as high as £900. The price range depends on the cost of supplies and labour. While you may want to do the task yourself, it’s best to hire a professional because they have the required skills and equipment for the job.
Other factors that determine the price of flooring restoration are:
You may spend between £10 to £60 per square metre on flooring renovation. It involves tasks like upgrading, resanding, and refinishing. The things that influence the cost of renovation are:
Yes, various extra costs are associated with flooring besides the initial cost of supplies and installation. These costs include moving furniture, removal and disposal of old flooring, subfloor preparation, installing underlayment, and purchasing accessories like adhesives, nails, screws, and finishing, among others.
An underlay is a thin sheet of material placed between the subfloor and the flooring. It evens out imperfections and creates underfoot comfort. Generally, underlays are priced between £3 to £8 per square metre.
Installing new flooring usually requires the removal of old flooring because if the old one eventually fails, it’ll affect the new one. Also, it’s important to check the condition of the subfloor before installation. Contractors may charge between £70 to £200 for taking out your old flooring.
You can dispose of your old flooring by arranging for a skip pickup or liaising with the flooring contractor to get rid of it. Some flooring types like laminate, linoleum, and tile are recyclable, which means you can take them to a waste recycling centre. Also, some manufacturers offer a recycling program and can pick up old flooring from your home.
You can rent a 6 or an 8-yard skip since it’s large enough for most home renovation projects. This will cost between £200 to £400.
Yes, different flooring brands offer various price points due to the reputation they’ve built over the years, the wide range of flooring colours, patterns, and styles, and the technology used during production.
The table below shows the cost implication of hiring a professional vs. DIY.
| Factors | Professional Installation | DIY |
| Tools and Equipment | Pros have special tools and equipment for various flooring jobs, which assures precision | You’ll have to buy or rent the tools required, which increases your upfront costs |
| Expertise | Pros have the right skill set for the job, which reduces the time of installation. They also offer a warranty in case something goes wrong later. | DIY can result in several mistakes that’ll lead to waste of materials, increase the time spent on the project, and may even void the flooring manufacturer’s warranty |
| Cost of Supplies | The cost of flooring materials is the same for both professionals and DIYers | DIYers may not have access to trade discounts |
| Labour | Pros charge as high as twice the cost of the flooring material, depending on their skills and level of experience | You won’t pay a dime for labour but your time and efforts are factored into the overall costs |
Yes, commercial flooring and residential flooring are quite different in terms of material strength, quality, and design, which heavily impact the cost. When comparing the costs, you’ll realise that commercial flooring is made for high foot traffic and requires special maintenance, while residential flooring prioritises aesthetics and needs low maintenance.
Additionally, the cost of installing commercial flooring is higher than residential flooring since the layout could be large and complex. There are also strict building regulations for commercial buildings which influences the overall cost.
When considering the cost of a residential or commercial flooring project, you should keep in mind factors like the size of your space, type of flooring, brand, labour, and more. You also shouldn’t only look at the upfront costs because many variables can influence the total cost in the long run.
You can contact us now to help you choose a flooring option that fits within your budget.
Nothing beats the appearance of newly installed flooring in a home. It brings warmth and comfort to your space. But whether you’re hiring a professional or undertaking a DIY flooring installation project, having the right set of tools is critical to its success.
Our detailed guide explains everything you need to know about fitting different types of flooring. You’ll find info on the required tools, cost of installation, project timeline, maintenance tips for new floors, and proper disposal of old flooring.
There are different types of flooring with slightly different setups. However, we’ve summarised the general steps involved.
Below are the things you should do when preparing to fit a new floor.
Yes, you need to install an underlay if you’re fitting hardwood, engineered wood, or laminate flooring. It helps to add an extra layer of underfoot comfort. But if you’re fitting vinyl and luxury vinyl planks, you should check whether the manufacturer added a backing or specified the type of underlay to use.
If you’re yet to decide which flooring material is best for your property, you may as well check out the available methods of fitting new floors. Below is a highlight of the unique steps so you can see how they differ from one material to another.
Here’s how you can fit laminate flooring:
Follow these steps for installing wood flooring:
Fitting vinyl flooring is easy. Check out the following tips:
Let’s walk you through the steps of installing carpet flooring.
You’ll need different sets of tools depending on the type of floor you want to install. Here’s a list of the necessary tools:
Having the right tools for floor fitting is crucial as it makes the work easier, reduces imperfections, and saves time. Also, some manufacturers specify the tools to use to validate the warranty in case anything goes wrong during installation.
The essential tools needed for fitting a new floor vary depending on the type of floor. Below are some common tools.
Yes, flooring types like tile, hardwood, and vinyl need special tools.
Tiles:
Hardwood:
Vinyl:
On average, flooring installation will cost between £300 and £1,000. However, it depends on the flooring type, room size, brand, location, and condition of the subfloor.
The cost of flooring installation is calculated per square metre of the floor. Also, labour rates and the number of days involved are factored into the total cost.
Each floor type has its method of installation, which affects the installation price. Also, some designs are complex and require precision and more time to complete.
The size of the area affects the new floor installation because it’ll determine how much flooring materials you’ll purchase. Also, a large room means the installer will work around a lot of obstacles like fixtures and furniture.
Yes, additional costs may apply if you need to:
Yes, you should remove the old flooring. It allows you to inspect the subfloor and correct problems, such as moisture penetration, unevenness, and accumulated debris, that may reduce the lifespan of the new flooring in the long run.
Several factors are considered when determining the amount of supplies for a flooring project. They include the room dimension and the type of setup you choose.
You should use a measuring tape to get the length and width of the room. But if the shape is irregular, divide it into smaller sections and measure separately.
To account for obstacles when determining the quantity of flooring, you should measure the length and width of doorways and closets separately, then subtract it from the main area measurement. Also, you should include some allowance for wastage.
There are several methods for calculating the amount of flooring you need, depending on the type of flooring and the room layout. The common methods include:
It’s advisable to include between 5 to 10% of the total square metres. It makes provision for cutting, mistakes, and adjustments when fitting the flooring material.
Fitting a new floor takes between one to four days. For instance, fitting tiles in a small room can take between 4 to 24 hours, while a big room may take up to 3 days. So, the duration depends on the size of the room and other factors mentioned below.
The following factors can affect the duration of your flooring project:
Yes, you can fit flooring yourself if you’ve got the time, skills, and equipment. Otherwise, it’s best to hire a professional that has a track record of delivering excellent services.
Want to fit your flooring yourself? Check out the benefits of doing so:
Here’s why you may need to opt for professional installation:
Each flooring type has unique maintenance techniques. Here are some general maintenance tips:
There are different ways of cleaning new flooring, depending on the material. But we’ve listed the general cleaning steps below.
You should clean your newly fitted flooring at least once or twice each week or as needed. Houses with children and pets, including areas that welcome guests more often, will require frequent cleaning.
To address spills and stains on flooring, you should act fast instead of allowing them to settle and cause damage. Ensure to blot stains with a paper towel, as rubbing will spread them to other areas. For solid spills, carefully use a wooden or plastic spatula to scrape them without scratching the floor.
To remove dirt, debris, and pet hair from your flooring, you should consider getting a vacuum cleaner that has the right attachment for your type of flooring. Also, you have to groom your pet and keep their paws and bedding clean to avoid transferring dirt to the floor. Areas that receive more foot traffic, like entryways, should have rugs to trap dirt from spreading to other rooms.
The appropriate way to dispose of old flooring depends on the type of flooring. Some products are recyclable, while others can be disposed of as regular construction waste. Ensure to check with your local waste management agency to know your options.
Every area has its regulations or guidelines for disposing of old flooring. The UK prioritises recycling and recovery before moving waste to landfills. However, whether the old flooring is from a residence or a commercial building, you should ensure it’s properly handled and transferred to the authorised persons.
Various environmentally friendly options are available for disposing of old flooring. They include the following:
Yes, there are local recycling centres in the UK that accept old flooring. You should note that they don’t accept all kinds of flooring. For instance, local facilities may not be able to handle laminate flooring. So, you should check whether the manufacturer offers a recycling program.
Yes, flooring installers can dispose of your old flooring for you. But you have to hire them for that purpose because it’s not a standard service.
While we’ve provided in-depth information on flooring installation, it’s important to contact a professional who’ll assist you in getting it right. Although you may be worried about the cost, we offer expert guidance that works perfectly with your budget.
Do you want to spice up your place without spending a fortune on new furniture? Flooring renovation is the key. You can upgrade, add to, or restyle your old flooring and enjoy a fresh sight without changing too many things around the house.
But what exactly is flooring renovation? And how much will it cost you? Get your answers and much more in this guide, and if you want to renovate your floors, contact us for an accurate price quote!
Flooring renovation involves laying a new floor or restyling your existing one to boost its aesthetic. Suppose your floor starts showing signs of wear and tear. To renovate it, you can refinish it, give it a new stain, or rearrange the tiles to give it a new look. However, if the damage is too extensive, you can replace it with a new floor.
The flooring renovation process depends on multiple factors, including whether your floor needs to be replaced or restored, your budget, your personal preference, and more.
Whether your floor needs to be replaced or restored depends on its material and state. If it’s too damaged, you’ll likely need to replace it. But if it only shows signs of wear in specific areas, you can restore it. Here are the signs you should replace or restore your floors.
| Replace | Restore |
| Water damageMould infestationUneven tiles or boardsStubborn discolourationLarge cracks that can’t be fixed | Small cracks and chipsStainsDents under furniture’s legsUV damage (colour fading) |
Before jumping into a renovation project, you need to decide on a budget so that you know how you’ll revamp your floor. For instance, replacing a wood floor costs a lot more than sanding it and reapplying its finishing layer. Naturally, the bigger budget you have, the more changes you’ll be able to make.
Whether you want your floor to look the same or different as before will affect the entire renovation process. Consider you want your wood floors to look the same but with a more subtle shine. Your option will be to change your matte finishing layer to a satin one. However, if you want an entirely new look, you’ll have to sand the floor and restain it or replace it.
One of the factors that’ll affect the renovation process is where it’ll happen. For instance, if you want to renovate your kitchen or bathroom floor, you’ll need to look for waterproof floors like ceramic or vinyl. Meanwhile, other rooms, like your living room or bedroom, don’t need the same consideration. You’ll have more freedom in choosing the type of floor you want.
When dealing with floors, it’s always recommended you hire a professional to avoid mistakes. For instance, if any tile is placed wrongly, you risk water damage and a chaotic-looking floor in your house. Also, flooring experts use specific tools that you might not have, and hiring them is much more affordable than buying new equipment.
Before you renovate, you should consider living elsewhere during the process. This way, the expert floorers will work on the entire house at once and finish faster and more efficiently. But if you stay home, they’ll have to tackle the rooms one by one to give you a place to live, which isn’t convenient and will delay the process.
If your floor is water damaged, uneven beneath your feet, or has soft spots, chances are the damage originated in your subfloor. Expert floorers can fix the damage, but it’ll cost more money and take longer time than a superficial floor renovation.
The average cost of renovating a floor can be anywhere from £40 to £85 per square metre, but the exact price depends on many factors. To name a few, it depends on the size of your house, the type of your floors, the nature of your property (residential or commercial), and the labour prices in your area. Also, the price will go up drastically if you lay new floors.
There are six types of floors that are commonly used in renovation, wood, carpet, vinyl, laminate, linoleum, and tiles. Here’s a brief rundown of them and why they’re common in this field.
Wood is the ideal choice for many properties because it can be easily repaired and restored. Many other floors need replacement if even minor damage occurs, but wood can be sanded, restrained, and refinished. In essence, you could have an entirely new floor without moving a board out of its place.
The warmth and quiet provided by carpet flooring are enough to make it a favourite choice among homeowners. It’s also easy to install and replace and more budget-friendly than many hard floor options. If you recently removed your hard floors and want an entirely different look and feel, you should consider carpet.
Vinyl flooring is an ideal choice if you’re planning to renovate because of its resilience and resistance to water. It’s less likely to suffer water damage than natural floors, and it doesn’t cost nearly as much. That said, vinyl floors fade in competition next to wood floors, as they can’t be repaired and often need replacements if damaged.
Laminate flooring combines the attractive aesthetic of natural floors and the resilience of artificial floors, making it a common floor replacement option. Suppose you had wood flooring and had to remove it because of water damage or rot in the subfloor. You can install laminate flooring, enjoy the woodsy look, and say goodbye to these problems!
Linoleum has been benched for years under the pretence that it’s outdated, but it’s been slowly regaining its standing in the renovation business for the qualities it offers. It’s budget-friendly, durable, and water-resistant. It’s a decent option if you want durable floors without breaking the bank on more expensive natural materials.
Tiles come in many materials, most commonly ceramic and porcelain. They’re an ideal option because of their durability, resistance to water, and ease of maintenance and repair. Because tiles come in small pieces, you can replace the damaged parts only and avoid replacing the floor. However, with rolls, you can’t fix a small part without removing the entire floor.
Wood floors can be renovated by replacing or repairing them. The former includes laying a new floor because of extensive damage or an outdated design. Meanwhile, the latter includes sanding the floor to remove any cracks or damage signs, giving it a new stain, and refinishing it.
The two terms are used interchangeably, but ultimately, restoration means repairing your existing floor and bringing back its original look and look. Meanwhile, renovation means upgrading your old floor to a new one or restyling your old floor to give it a new look.
The former is done to damaged floors only, while renovation can be done to a neat-looking floor that you feel is out of style.
Remodelling involves a complete transformation of the floor, changing its purpose and how it looks. For instance, you can use old tiles as wall decoration or wood floor boards to build a table. Meanwhile, renovation involves refreshing the appearance of the floor while maintaining its purpose.
Do you want to renovate your floors and enjoy a new look and feel? First, consider the state of your floor and whether it should be replaced, your budget, and your preferences. Then, hire a professional for the job and lay back as your old floor gets upgraded!
If you want to restore your old floors and breathe new life into them, set up a consultation with us now!
Flooring is a fundamental component of any property as it improves your interiors visually and physically. It’s critical you learn everything about flooring maintenance to keep it in pristine condition for as long as possible.
To help you, we’ve created this guide to show you the processes involved in flooring maintenance, how they differ depending on flooring materials, and much more!
Any action that contributes to keeping your flooring in good condition falls under floor maintenance. It includes regular cleaning, polishing, repairing, and other activities that help extend the lifespan and preserve the appearance of your flooring.
Following a regular maintenance schedule for your floors will reward you in a variety of ways. Here are a few benefits of routine upkeep:
Since floor maintenance entails several activities, we thought we’d outline them for you to help you take care of your flooring the right way:
Always clean up spills right away to avoid injuries or severe damage to the flooring material. Spills can cause the flooring to become slick, increasing the risk of slipping accidents. They can also turn into stubborn stains that discolour the flooring and oftentimes cause water damage.
Sweeping debris or loose dirt particles every few days, especially in high-traffic areas, is an essential step in maintaining the flooring’s surface. When dirt starts accumulating, it can scratch and scuff your flooring, damaging its finish and dulling its lustre.
You should clean the floors thoroughly, employing a combination of vacuuming, sweeping and mopping.
Not only does this help maintain a fresh look, but it also improves air quality by removing dust, which usually carries pathogens that aggravate allergies.
Look for signs of damage, such as cracks, scratches, or even regular wear and tear. Repairing the affected parts is easier and cheaper when the damage is still in its early stages.
Aside from preserving the aesthetics of the flooring, fixing damaged areas allows you to avoid potential hazards caused by fractured parts.
If you notice damp areas in the flooring—water stains or excessive moisture, for example—you must replace them immediately. Otherwise, waterlogged parts can spread to other areas and weaken the flooring, causing severe structural deterioration.
Restoration plays a major role in boosting the flooring’s resilience and longevity. Although the process varies depending on the material, it usually includes replacing damaged areas and refinishing worn-out parts. It also involves treatment processes like polishing, varnishing, and sanding.
Yes. There are various types and materials of flooring, each with its own maintenance requirements.
Here are some common flooring types, along with the highlights of their upkeep:
If you have hardwood flooring, sweep it daily and hoover it thoroughly once a week to prevent dust particles from scratching the finish. Avoid using wet mops because wood is prone to absorbing moisture, and that could seriously damage it.
It’s also important to refinish the flooring every three to five years to restore its glossy look.
Carpet maintenance entails regular sweeping and cleaning. This prevents dust from accumulating in its fibres, which can trigger allergies and deteriorate the material.
You should also deep clean your carpets every six months. If you’re not familiar with the process, hire a professional.
With vinyl flooring, clean it with products that won’t scratch the surface. You should vacuum it routinely, and when removing stains, use soft bristle brushes and steer clear of abrasive tools like steel wool.
Remember that the majority of laminate floors are water-resistant, not waterproof. This means you should avoid cleaning it with excessively wet mops, or you’ll find the floor swelling and bubbling.
Just like with vinyl, use soft cleaning materials to protect the floor’s surface from scratching or scuffing.
Many of the upkeep requirements for wood flooring also apply to linoleum. You should sweep linoleum flooring daily to get rid of grit and any scratching particles. It’s also best to clean it with a dry mop or a slightly damp one as this material absorbs moisture.
Additionally, linoleum needs polishing every now and then to maintain its durability and shiny appearance.
There are many hard-wearing flooring types used in commercial properties, so the upkeep process varies depending on the material installed.
However, commercial flooring maintenance generally includes constant cleaning, sweeping, and mopping as well as immediate replacement of worn-out parts.
Each flooring material has its own distinct characteristics. Hence, the supplies used to maintain floorings will vary depending on the material.
To give you a general idea, here are three of the most widely used flooring care products:
The flooring material isn’t the only factor influencing how to care for your flooring. Different conditions and environments, such as those listed below, also impact its maintenance.
Increased foot traffic translates to more dust, grime, and wear brought on the flooring. That’s why you’ll need to clean busy areas frequently and deep-clean them periodically to remove embedded dirt.
It would also be ideal to apply a finish that protects the flooring surface if the material allows it.
With children present, the risk of spilling incidents increases, so you must be alert to such instances before they permanently ruin your flooring.
When applicable, apply stain and water-resistant coatings to mitigate the damage, such as a moisture-cure urethane finish for hardwood.
You should also be on the lookout for any damage and repair it immediately so kids can move around the house safely.
If you have furry friends around, you’ll need to sweep more frequently to get rid of their fur, especially if you’re allergic. If your flooring isn’t scratch-resistant, we recommend applying a scratch-resistant finish or adding carpets to avoid scratches caused by your pet’s nails.
You should keep cleaning products on hand in areas where food spills are common, such as the kitchen. Mop the flooring with appropriate cleaning agents regularly to prevent spills from turning into stubborn stains.
Water exposure can cause swelling, warping, and even mould growth in certain flooring materials. If your flooring isn’t waterproof or only water resistant, keep it dry to avoid permanent damage.
Extreme temperatures can negatively affect some flooring types, and if this issue isn’t addressed quickly, it can cause structural damage.
For example, when wood flooring is exposed to extreme heat and humidity for extended periods, it can develop splits that can be easily repaired before they progress to severe cracks.
Consequently, you must identify and prepare for the risks that your flooring type may face in certain weather conditions.
High-impact sports can lead to scuffs and dents in the flooring, so if it isn’t impact-resistant, you’ll need to add a layer of protection. This layer could be rubber flooring, which not only absorbs shock but also repels water.
You should routinely inspect the flooring in factories and other buildings that house large machinery. This will allow you to identify damaged areas and repair them quickly before the weight of the machinery exacerbates the problem.
You might want to invest in protective mats to prevent permanent dents and scratches on the flooring surface caused by heavy equipment.
When exposed to elements such as sunlight and rain, your outdoor flooring could discolour and deteriorate. Keep an eye out for signs of wear and, if possible, apply a UV protection coating or a water-resistant layer to the flooring.
You should also clean the outdoor flooring constantly to prevent debris from building up.
The flooring you have installed indoors will be subjected to spills, dust accumulation, and regular wear. To keep it in good condition, sweep, hoover and clean it regularly. You should also use furniture pads to prevent furniture from leaving dents in the flooring.
Yes, various flooring brands may have different maintenance requirements.
The type of flooring largely determines the level of upkeep required. However, different brands can produce materials with different properties and thus varying maintenance requirements. That’s why you should always review the manufacturer’s instructions.
The lifespan of floorings mainly depends on their type and quality; they can last anywhere from five to 100 years.
Here are some of the most popular flooring types, along with their life expectancy:
You’re now well-equipped with all the key information and major tips for properly maintaining your flooring!
Just remember that various flooring types necessitate different upkeep methods; what works for one may damage the other. Before using new maintenance techniques on your flooring, make sure to research their viability and consult the manufacturer’s guidelines.
For professional flooring installation and upkeep, get in touch with Clever Carpets & Flooring. We’ll be happy to assist!
Your flooring is a long-term investment that’ll last decades with proper care and make your home more comfortable, stylish, and inviting. But even with regular maintenance, it’ll wear out and fade over time, looking unsightly on your property. And while you can replace it, flooring restoration is a more affordable option.
Restoring your floors removes scratches, dents, stains, and other imperfections, making them look new again, more resistant to damage, and extending their lifespan by many years. And the best part is that you can choose different finishes or designs to create a space that shows off your style.
We’ll discuss all you need to know about flooring restoration, from the benefits and steps involved to the types of floors that can be restored. We’ll also determine the costs and whether it needs professionals or a simple DIY approach to help you better understand the process.
It’s renewing old or damaged floors to return their original beauty by sanding, staining, and polishing. It’s like giving your old floors a makeover without installing new flooring, making it more affordable.
The main benefit is your old worn-out floor will look brand new, increasing your home’s value and making you more comfortable hosting guests. Here are some other benefits of restoring old flooring:
Restoring your flooring is a delicate project that you need to handle with precision to avoid further damage and costly repairs. Here are the steps for flooring restoration:
You can recondition different types of flooring, from wooden to laminate, at a lower cost than buying new floors. Here are some examples:
Restoring wood flooring involves rejuvenating old wood floors through sanding, staining, and sealing or simply buffing for a shiny finish. To know when your wooden floors need reconditioning, keep an eye out for scratches, fading, discolouration, or a worn finish. And watch out for any warping caused by moisture.
Here are the types of wood flooring you can restore:
Restoring wood flooring is all about bringing back that fresh look, but the process can change depending on the floor type and how much work it needs. Still, follow these basic steps:
Renewing floorboards improves the condition of old or damaged boards through sanding, staining, and sealing. If your floorboards are damaged, faded, or outdated, reconditioning will make them beautiful and last longer. You can recondition the following types of floorboards:
Consider the following steps for rejuvenating your floorboards:
Laminate flooring can be refurbished by cleaning, repairing, and sealing, removing damage and making your floors look new again. Plastic laminate flooring can’t be repaired, so it has to be replaced. However, you can fix engineered wood laminate, making it a more sustainable choice.
Follow these steps to renew your laminate flooring:
Resurfacing your stone floors involves cleaning, polishing, and sealing to make them look brand new. You can reclaim the following types of stone flooring:
Take these steps to give your stone flooring new life:
This involves renewing the appearance of old or worn-out tile surfaces by cleaning, regrouting, and resealing. If your tiles look dull, dirty, cracked, or chipped, you may need to restore them before the damage worsens. The following types of tile flooring can be restored:
Here are basic steps to help rejuvenate your tile flooring:
This is renewing old, damaged, or stained concrete to make your floors look better and prevent them from further damage. If your concrete looks dull, stained, or cracked, you may need to rejuvenate it by staining, polishing, and coating. Here are the types of concrete flooring you can refurbish:
The following steps will help you renew your floors’ appearance:
Anywhere from 10 to 50 years. The following factors influence how long your restoration project will last:
Restoration usually costs £13 to £25 per square meter. Still, the actual cost varies depending on the floor’s size, the wood’s condition, the type of restoration required, and the level of service you need.
A larger floor will cost more to restore than a smaller one because it requires more materials and labour. Plus, if you use poor-quality wood flooring, it may require more restoration, increasing the cost. And if you need experienced professionals to renew your floors, it will cost you more.
The type of restoration you need will also affect the total cost because sanding and refinishing your flooring is more affordable than replacing damaged boards.
That depends on the extent of damage and your experience level. If your floors need light reconditioning, you may DIY the project. But if there’s so much damage, you should hire professionals. In general, it’s always best to hire experts because these projects are delicate and involve working with power tools.
Here’s a table showing the pros and cons of hiring a professional for flooring rejuvenation:
| Pros | Cons |
| Professionals have the skills, knowledge, and experience to handle different flooring materials and restoration techniques | Hiring a professional is expensive, especially for larger restoration projects |
| Professionals will complete the job quickly, freeing up your time for other important tasks | Coordinating with a professional’s availability and your schedule may be challenging |
| Flooring experts have access to specialised tools and equipment for efficient results | Finding a reliable and skilled professional may require research to ensure you hire the right person or company |
| Professionals offer tailored solutions and advice based on your specific needs and preferences | Miscommunication or misunderstandings may occur, leading to dissatisfaction with the results |
| Reputable professionals often provide warranties or guarantees for their work, giving you peace of mind in case of damages during the project | Research and Selection: Finding a reliable and skilled professional may require some research to ensure you hire the right person or company. |
| Hiring professionals ensures the restoration follows safety guidelines and meets building codes. | Some homeowners prefer to be directly involved in the restoration process, which may not be possible |
Here’s a table showing the pros and cons of DIY flooring rejuvenation:
| Pros | Cons |
| Cost saving | Time-consuming |
| Sense of accomplishment | Risk of mistakes and damage |
| Control over the process | Limited expertise and tools |
| Flexibility in scheduling | Physical labour and exhaustion |
| Personalisation and creativity | Potential for uneven results |
| Learning experience | No warranty or professional guarantee |
| Opportunity to increase home value | Lack of professional finish |
| Tailored to specific needs | Potential for exposure to harmful chemicals |
| Ability to work at your own pace | May require additional help |
You’ll have to buy new flooring. It may sound disappointing, but new flooring allows you to choose a fresh look and upgrade your space to your liking. As you shop for the best flooring, you’ll need to consider your budget, the style of your home, and the amount of maintenance you’re willing to provide.
Flooring restoration is a great way to breathe new life into your old floors and make your home the best place to be. Before you start sanding your floorboards, consider the benefits of a professional finish to your property. And since it’s a delicate process, DIY may cause more damage than you’d think.
If you’re ready to bring your floors back to life, contact us today for a free estimate and learn more about your options.
After years of being viewed as outdated, linoleum flooring is slowly regaining its renowned status in the renovation business. Nowadays, it’s a famous option in both residential and commercial properties, and for good reason. It’s highly durable, resistant to water, and can last for up to 40 years with proper care.
However, linoleum flooring doesn’t come without cons. To make an informed purchasing decision, you should be aware of its pros and shortcomings, and that’s why we’re here!
We’ll tell you everything you need to know about linoleum flooring, including what it is and what its pros and cons are.
Linoleum is made from a combination of natural materials, including pine resins, oxidised linseed oil, gums, wood, and more. After the materials are combined, they’re attached to a canvas backing and treated with pigments to create an attractive design.
Yes, linoleum is a popular choice in many properties because of its durability, especially residential ones. It stayed in the shadows for a while because of new synthetic flooring materials rising to fame, but it’s been making a comeback for a few years now.
Linoleum flooring comes in three types that you might come across while shopping. Here’s a brief roundup of them, along with the pros and cons of each one:
Sheet linoleum flooring comes in large rolls that are laid on the floor intricately. Installing it is a complex process that calls for professionals, but it’s worth the hassle. This is because linoleum sheets come in a myriad of patterns and colours, suitable for every room in your house.
Tile linoleum flooring highly resembles ceramic and porcelain, making it an ideal fit for bathrooms and kitchens. It’s easier to install than sheet flooring but costs more. Linoleum tiles’ selling point is their unprecedented durability, though, as they can outlive sheets by many years.
Floating linoleum tiles come in unique designs that click together like a puzzle, eliminating the need for adhesives. They have the easiest installation method out of the three types, but they require intricate preparation of the subfloor before they’re laid down.
| Pros of Linoleum Flooring | |
| Highly Durable | Linoleum floors have an average lifespan of 20-40 years because of their colourfast nature. Instead of having pigments on their surfaces only, they’re applied through the entire depth of the material. |
| Resistant to Water | Most of the natural materials that comprise linoleum are waterproof, boosting the floors’ resistance to water damage. |
| Versatile | Linoleum floors are available in endless patterns, colours, and designs, making them suitable for every room in your house. |
| Easy to Clean and Maintain | Regular sweeping and mopping are enough to make your linoleum floors last for years. |
| Cons of Linoleum Flooring | |
| Challenging to Install | You can’t DIY your way through linoleum flooring installation because it’s an intricate and complicated process that calls for professionals. |
| Susceptible to Dents | It’s recommended that you rotate your furniture over linoleum flooring every now and then because it’s prone to dents. |
| Susceptible to UV Damage | Linoleum flooring can turn yellowish if exposed to direct sunlight for long hours every day. |
Choosing the best flooring for your property can be a tall order, but linoleum should definitely be among your considerations. It’s most famous for its excellent performance in the following properties:
Linoleum is ideal for houses because of its versatility. It comes in a wide array of types, designs, and colours, making it suitable for almost all rooms inside your property. Here’s a list of rooms where you can install linoleum:
Linoleum flooring doesn’t come to many people’s minds when renovating commercial properties, but it’s a suitable fit for many places. Here’s a list of commercial places where you can install linoleum:
Linoleum flooring comes in a myriad of styles and effects to satisfy every taste. Whether you’re going for an elegant, minimalistic look or a chaotic, stylish one, you’ll find a design that suits your needs.
Linoleum floors come in both neutral and bright colours. Here’s a list of the most common ones you’ll come across while shopping:
Linoleum floors can be designed to resemble many natural materials, boosting their elegance and making them suitable for use in many settings. Here’s a list of the most common finishes linoleum comes in:
No matter what aesthetic you’re into, you’ll find a linoleum pattern that fits your imagination. Here’s a list of the most famous patterns of linoleum flooring:
It depends on what your needs are. If you want a stylish floor for your bedroom and living room, then sheets are the way to go. But if you’re looking for a waterproof and durable option, you should get tiles. It also depends on your budget and style preference.
If you want to give linoleum floors a try, here’s a list of the best brands in the United Kingdom that sell them:
Linoleum flooring can cost you anywhere from £10 to £30 per square metre, depending on the type you choose and the average labour costs in your area.
Yes, you can, and your best bet is to buy sheet linoleum flooring. Since it’s mass-manufactured and available in a myriad of patterns and colours, it’s the most affordable type in the market.
Yes, you can. Linoleum flooring is made from natural materials that aren’t as readily available as synthetic materials, so it can be quite expensive.
The average cost of fitting linoleum flooring is £14-17 per square metre, and the exact number will depend on the size of your rooms.
Linoleum flooring can increase the value of your property at reselling if it’s new and nailed to the floor. However, if it’s floating and old, it’ll have a negative effect on your property’s price.
Installing linoleum flooring is a challenging process that requires close care to avoid mistakes. If you want to get the gist of it, here’s a general idea about how it’s done.
The first step your contractor will do is to measure the room to know how many sheets or tiles are needed to cover the floor. They’ll take into account corners and doorways and cut the flooring to fit the area exactly using a utility knife.
Next, your contractor will remove all the baseboards in the room using a pry bar to leave room for the new floor. If you already have an underlay, they’ll proceed to laying the new tiles. But if you don’t, they’ll add a plywood layer to support the new linoleum flooring and protect it from damage as a result of contact with a tough subfloor.
After preparing the subfloor properly, your contractor will start laying the linoleum flooring. They’ll apply adhesives first to make sure the tiles stick to the subfloor, then fit it where it belongs.
Linoleum can be installed using adhesives or nails, which are favourable approaches for installing sheets and planks. Also, it can be installed by clicking the tiles together, which is an easier but less durable method.
Yes, you do. The underlay will make the floor softer and warmer underfoot. Also, it muffles footsteps, which is much appreciated in crowded spaces.
Yes, you need professional help to install linoleum floors properly, especially if you haven’t done it before. Fitting the floor and adhering it to the ground is an intricate process with no room for mistakes. If you try to DIY and make any mistake, you’ll drastically shorten the lifespan of your floors, as they’ll become more prone to damage.
Regular maintenance is key to extending the life of your linoleum flooring. Here are the best ways you can care for it.
Linoleum flooring is prone to scratching if you drag furniture across it. Also, it can dent after a while as a result of heavy furniture. To prevent these signs of wear, you can place protective pads under your furniture’s legs.
While linoleum floors are highly resistant to moisture, they’re not 100% waterproof. If you clean them using a wet mop and don’t dry them afterwards, they’ll be more likely to suffer water damage.
Linoleum floors can stain and show signs of wear if left dirty for a while. To keep your floors looking as good as new for the longest time possible, you should regularly sweep them to remove dust and mop them to clean any stains.
Here are the best ways you can clean your linoleum flooring without damaging them.
If you have high foot traffic in your house, you should use a mix of linoleum cleaner and warm water to mop the floor every couple of days. The cleaner will clean all the stuck dirt and grime efficiently without causing any discolouration or colour fading.
While sweeping your floors, don’t forget to clean beneath the rugs in your house. When dirt gets stuck under there for a long time, it starts eroding into the floor, which can cause signs of wear and tear.
After a while, linoleum floors can turn dull, even if properly cleaned. To restore their shine, use a linoleum floor polish every few months.
Yes, but it depends on the type of damage. Linoleum floors with small cracks or scratches can be repaired using a seam sealer. Meanwhile, tiles with water damage need to be replaced.
Linoleum flooring lasts an average of 20-40 years, depending on how well they’re cleaned and maintained, whether they’re exposed to sunlight or not, and how much traffic they withstand.
Linoleum flooring is partially efficient, as it’s made of natural materials that are sustainable. However, it doesn’t hold on to heat as much as other energy-efficient floors, like carpets.
Yes, it is. Unlike synthetic floors, linoleum biodegrades in nature and can be easily recycled, so you can renovate your house guilt-free.
Yes, linoleum flooring is a good choice for many people, considering its durability, versatility, and eco-friendliness.
Linoleum flooring might not be the best choice for pets because it’s not entirely scratch resistant. However, if your pets don’t scratch the floor with their nails, then yes, it can be an ideal choice.
Yes, linoleum flooring is good for kids because it’s highly resistant to stains and signs of wear, so it can take running and stomping all day long. Also, it’s softer underfoot than many hard flooring types.
Yes, linoleum flooring is reasonably durable and doesn’t show signs of wear easily, so it’s an ideal match for high-traffic rooms.
Yes, it is. Unlike natural materials, like wood, that absorb water and suffer from rot and mould growth, linoleum repels it. It’s a good fit for wet environments as long as you don’t soak it in water.
Yes, but not entirely. Linoleum resists water as long as it isn’t exposed to it for too long or too extensively. If soaked, it can suffer water damage signs like dulling and discolouration.
Linoleum flooring packs a lot of favourable qualities for property owners, like durability, elegance, and versatility. It comes in three types and endless patterns and designs, so no matter what place you’re renovating, you’ll find a lino floor that fits your needs.
With the help of our guide, you can make an informed purchasing decision and care for your new floors properly.
And if you need any more help with your flooring needs, contact us today. You can get a free quote and site survey!
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!
