Wood flooring never goes out of style and can make a dramatic difference in the look and feel of your home. But with so many wood flooring options now available, it can be tricky to understand the differences and choose the best variety for your needs. Read on for insights from the experts at Flooring Shop Worthing on the pros and cons of various wood flooring types to determine which is right for you.
What is Wood Flooring?
Wood flooring consists of boards of various wood species that are installed as the top layer surface of floors. The boards are milled from logs, given tongue and groove edges, and may have various surface treatments applied. The most common types of wood flooring are solid hardwood, engineered wood, and laminate.
Solid Hardwood Flooring
Solid hardwood is milled from complete solid wood planks. It can be sanded and refinished repeatedly, making it very long-lasting. Solid hardwood expands and contracts with humidity changes, so it performs best in temperature-controlled environments. The natural beauty and richness of solid wood make it ideal for formal living spaces.
Engineered Wood Flooring
Engineered wood consists of a top layer of hardwood adhered to a plywood base for stability. This construction minimises expansion and contraction issues, making engineered wood suitable for basements, bathrooms and kitchens. Engineered wood can often be refinished, but less extensively than solid hardwood. It provides a versatile, durable wood flooring option.
Laminate Wood Flooring
Laminate wood flooring contains no actual wood. It has a photographic image layer under a clear protective coat, which is adhered to a composite core-like fiberboard. Laminate is the most affordable and lowest maintenance option that mimics the look of real wood. It cannot be refinished, but many types feature scratch and moisture resistance.
Choosing the Right Wood Flooring
When selecting wood floors, consider factors like your budget, how actively the space is used, whether climate control is available, and your desired look. The experts at a Flooring Shop Worthing can guide you to the ideal wood flooring for your needs and lifestyle after learning more about your home.
The Benefits of Wood Flooring
Natural Beauty and Warmth
Nothing compares to the visual richness, depth, and natural variations of real wood. Wood floors add beauty, character, and a welcoming warmth to any home.
Durability and Longevity
Properly cared-for wood floors can last for decades, even with heavy use. Many types can be refinished multiple times, essentially making them new again each time. This longevity provides great value.
Ease of Cleaning
Keeping wood floors clean is simple with regular vacuuming or dust mopping and occasional damp mopping. They do not trap allergens and dust like carpeting. Many types feature scratch-resistant coatings for added protection.
Adds Value and Appeal
Wood floors are desirable in most housing markets. They increase a home’s value and appeal to potential buyers. Hardwoods can also serve as an attractive selling point for rental spaces.
Conclusion
With its unmatched beauty and many structural benefits, wood flooring is a fantastic option for most homes. Work with the wood flooring specialists at Flooring Shop Worthing to determine whether solid hardwood, engineered wood, or laminate is best suited for your lifestyle and space. You’re sure to love the warmth and character real wood floors add.