Timber flooring not only looks great on the floors of your property, its durability also makes it perfect as a long-term solution for your home. Whilst there are different types of wooden flooring, timber remains a classic look which stands out in any house. And furthermore, it comes in several different varieties, making it suitable for almost any home. And below are three different timber options which would suit your house immediately.
Solid Timber Flooring
Solid timber flooring is made from a single piece of wood, and then cut to size, typically to around 18-20mm thickness. Solid timber flooring is perfect for covering concrete or timber subfloors, and for covering over joists. But the most impressive thing about solid timber flooring – beyond how it looks – is how long-term it can last for. Solid timber flooring will remain unscathed for a very, very long time. And not only is it durable, but it is also relatively simple to repair.
Solid timber flooring can suffer from a change in colour over a period of time due to exposure to UV light. Or become scratched from excessive traffic. However, this is easily fixed, by being sanded or disc-ed and then recoated. And to ensure your flooring always looks its best, it can be easily maintained by sweeping, vacuuming or dry-mopping (as over-wetting can damage the wood’s coating).
Timber Veneer Flooring
Timber veneer flooring, or prefinished timber flooring as it is often called, is effectively solid timber flooring, but it has already been sanded, sealed and made ready to fit. And unlike solid timber flooring, it is much easier and quicker to install, whilst still maintaining the classic timber look. Veneer flooring includes a variety of layers, and is often prefinished with oil and lacquer.
Timber veneer flooring remains extremely durable. This is partly to do with a finish treatment applied to the wood using powerful chemical sealers, and many of these treatments will have warranties of five to even twenty-five years. And although not necessary, you always have the option of sanding down the sealing coat to reveal the natural wood on the surface.
Timber Laminate Flooring
Timber laminate flooring is the perfect solution for those who want the classic timber look but anticipate a lot of traffic on top of it. Laminate timber flooring is extra durable. This is thanks to its highly scratch and dent-resistant surface. The surface covering normally consists of 90% melamine resin, which protects the flooring. And whilst it cannot be re-sanded if damaged, boards can be replaced or wax repaired relatively hassle free.
Laminate flooring is ideal for busy homes or workplaces. And it’s comfortable to the feet, as well as less dirty or dusty than a traditional carpet – perfect for anyone with allergies. And, of course, as with all timber floors, it looks great.
If you’re considering timber floors, there are several beautiful options you can consider. Ultimately, it comes down to practicality and aesthetic preferences. But whatever it is you’re in need of, there is a timber flooring option which is perfect for you.
Stephen MacVicar is the Founder of the flooring suppliers that are specialists in solid wood flooring as well as engineered wood flooring – Green Apple Flooring.