Wood flooring comes in so many different specifications it can sometimes be difficult to make an informed decision. Hopefully this quick guide may help you with your choice.
Laminate flooring is an artificially produced representation of not only timber but ceramics, stone and numerous other flooring types. It is manufactured using a decorative print covered with a protective wear layer. This layer protects the board from scratches, impact and provides a hardwearing durable surface.
Solid wood flooring is where your chosen species of timber is machined into boards usually with a tongue and groove profile for installation. Solid woods can be machined onto varying board dimensions depending on your desired effect. The boards can be finished with numerous different finishes, colours and textures all with their own characteristics.
Engineered wood flooring is a lamination of wood or wood based products, (do not confuse with artificial laminate floors). This type of floor comes in as many variations as solid wood but provides a higher degree of board stability. The top wear layer provides the decorative surface and comes in as many different finishes and sizes as varied as solid wood floors. Engineered wood floors have the advantage of being more versatile than solid woods, for example over underfloor heating or in conservatories.
