Like any fittings and furnishings, flooring can suffer from wear and tear over time. To keep your home looking fresh and modern, why not consider updating your vinyl click, laminate, or solid wood floor?
Here are some reasons to give your home a flooring “spruce up”, as well as some guidance on flooring materials.
Why replace your flooring?
Whether you intend to stay in your home for years to come or are already surfing Rightmove and Zoopla for your next property, updating your flooring is never a bad idea. If you want to keep your home, you’ll benefit from an aesthetic refresh and your floor’s new lease of life. And if you’re thinking about moving, beautiful new flooring will only add value to your home and appeal to buyers looking for a low-maintenance move.
Of course, flooring is meant to last a long time — but a long time isn’t a lifetime. While laminate flooring typically lasts for around 10 years, hardwood flooring (depending on the wood type and quality) generally shows signs of wear between 10-25 years.
It’s up to you to use your own judgement about the condition of your floors. But if you’ve noticed your laminate is becoming loose or your hardwood is splintering, squeaking, or showing signs of water damage, it might be time to browse some new, quality flooring options.
It’s a good idea to consider new flooring as a home investment to add property value and give you a more comfortable home. Everyone likes a great deal, but be cautious about trying to cut costs too much with cheap flooring. You run the risk of ending up with a low-quality result, and you could end up paying more further down the line.
How do I choose a flooring material?
Once you’ve decided to get new flooring, you’ll have the fun job of deciding which material you want to replace your old floor. While you can always replace like for like — maybe you adore the feel of your current floor, but it has just become too old and worn out — you might want to seize the chance to change up the aesthetic of your home with a new material.
What flooring materials are available?
Solid wood flooring
Solid wood flooring is an incredibly popular option for homeowners willing to invest in their property and benefit from a strong, durable, classic floor in return.
If you want our recommendation, we love our Solid Oak Lacquered flooring. It’s made from sustainable sources and sealed with an oiled top layer (which enhances the natural beauty of the floor). This solid oak option also has a tongue and groove construction which supports multiple installation methods, including glue-down or secret nailing.
The colour won’t fade, and given the long-lasting nature of solid wood, you won’t have to worry about replacing it anytime soon.
Vinyl click flooring
Vinyl click flooring is an easy-to-install, cost-effective option that’s suitable for all sorts of rooms — from bedrooms and living rooms to hallways. As it’s resistant to moisture, it also makes a top choice for bathrooms.
Our Luvanto Click Oxford Grey is a great choice if you’re looking for a classic wood effect, as is the darker Ash option and bright white Arctic Maple colour.
Laminate flooring
Made from pressed wood, people are often surprised at laminate flooring’s resilient qualities. A suitable option for those looking for something affordable that still withstands general wear and tear, laminate is a “best of both worlds” flooring option.
A current favourite is our Lignum Fusion Embossed 12mm Volcanic Oak. With a rich grain texture and a thick core board allowing for excellent sound absorption, it has the functionality to match its beautiful aesthetic.
Engineered wood flooring
Engineered wood flooring is generally less expensive than solid wood flooring, but is difficult to tell apart from solid wood flooring once installed. While we stock a wide range of great brands and options, we’re big fans of using engineered wood flooring to create an eye-catching herringbone effect. Just take a look at our Liquorice Herringbone, Sandbank Herringbone, and Jute Herringbone styles for inspiration.
Which is the best flooring material for each room?
There are no rules when it comes to choosing a material for each room in your home, but some materials are more popular for certain spaces than others, mainly because of the specific flooring properties that suit each room’s use. Browse flooring by room to find popular options for our customers.
- For kitchens, you’ll want something that can withstand lots of use, moisture, cooking mishaps and drink spills, and dirty boots if you have a door to the outdoors in your kitchen.
- Most people want their living room to be comfortable and stylish, with a light and airy feel. Classic oak planks and engineered wood herringbone styles are among the most popular options for these spaces.
- Bathroom flooring deserves some special consideration in that it needs to withstand a significant amount of moisture. Take a look at our easy-to-clean, water-resistant options that are suitable for even the busiest of bathrooms.
- Bedrooms are meant to be the cosiest and most personal rooms of all. These flooring options will help you see your bedroom as a sanctuary, whether you’re going for a contemporary or classic look.
- When choosing a conservatory floor option, you’ll want something insulative yet in keeping with the decor of your extra room.
- For hallways, durability is key to withstand heavy use and the trampling of outdoor shoes. It’s easy to neglect this space, but a fresh floor could transform your hall into a welcoming entry space.
Transform your home with high-quality flooring from A Wood Idea
Whatever style you’re after, we have a range of flooring designs to give your home the refresh it deserves. Browse our high-quality flooring options today. And for a little inspiration, why not explore our flooring spring specials and bestsellers? Feel free to get in touch if you have any questions.
