Flooring

Nothing beats the real deal, whether it be solid European oak or Douglas fir. These are the best floors to repair and patch in as any new timbers can be stained in to match the existing.

However, they can be prone to movement, as such there are increasing options for engineered timber which often has a 3-6mm hardwood top layer then several layers of softwood with opposing grade patterns to make the flooring more dimensionally stable.

In addition to traditional long floorboards there are also options for parquet flooring in different patterns (such as herringbone or mesh).

These floors will often require finishing with a varnish or hardware oil upon completion of fitting.

Laminate

This is often the most cost effective option and the quickest to fit, so long as it is going onto an existing flat floor. There are plenty of different options on the market with different colours and styles (planks and Herringbone). If you are looking to replace carpet in a room this could be ideal.

Most options of laminate are moisture resistant but you must not expose them to excess water as this can lead to the flooring delaminating and the decorative layer pealing up. Please be aware different products have different specifications.

Some laminates have a much better wear resistance against heavy foot fall, including households with pets.

Another advantage of laminate flooring is that, once fitted, there is no further finishing required. If new or altered skirtings are added then these will of course need a paint finish.

Vinyl

Click Vinyl flooring has taken off in recent years, it has all of the benefits of laminate flooring. It comes pre-finished, with high wear resistance and fast fitting and is also significantly more water resistance. As this flooring is not made from timber some manufacturers say their floors are fully water proof.

The minor downside to Click Vinyl flooring is that this improved quality comes at a greater price and is often a bigger expense than laminate flooring.

If you have found a floor you would like fitting or would like some advise on which option would suite your needs best, please call: 07818591019 or email: rd.millwardtaylor@gmail.com