When thinking floors, it is natural to turn your thoughts to solid timber, as this has been the material of choice since we first built houses, yet the environmental concerns, using solid timber isn’t exactly eco-friendly. Then you have the high cost of selected timber, which for many, is prohibitive, and fortunately, there are flooring companies that offer a range of attractive composite flooring, and at sensible prices too!
Engineered Flooring
A real timber veneer covers a composite core to give you the look and feel of solid timber and the strength of a composite. Engineered flooring is the choice for those who are looking for an eco-friendly way to enjoy the timeless look of real timber, without having to destroy mature trees. When looking at flooring stores, look for an established company that specialises in engineered flooring, and while not every flooring contractor offers this product, there are those who specialise in engineered solutions.
Recycled Timber Flooring
This is a great way to enjoy real timber without feeling guilty, as the recycled timber is planed down and resurfaced, and very often you see some amazing grain swirls that can be enhanced. The low cost when compared to solid timber is another attraction that makes recycled solutions so popular, and there are many species, both foreign and domestic. The timber is carefully prepared and is cut to specific dimensions and with the right treatment, your recycled floor will last a lifetime.
Composite Flooring
Vinyl
Vinyl is a popular flooring choice, due to durability and design, which can be timber, stone or slate, depending on your taste. Luxury vinyl comes in tile form and is very easy to install, as with other type of floating floor, vinyl requires a cork backing, which adds softness underfoot and makes for a silent walking experience. Vinyl flooring is very affordable and by talking to a few local suppliers, you can compare quotes, while also taking into account the many different designs on offer.
Laminate Flooring
Similar to vinyl, laminate flooring consists of 4 separate layers that are bound together to provide a rigid sheet that can easily be cut. Digital images provide the aesthetics, with stunning images of prime timber grains in all shades, or stone finishes if you prefer. If you would like to explore the potential that laminate flooring offers, a Google search will help to locate a local flooring contractor, who will have many samples and can help you select the right design.
Hybrid Flooring
By mixing the attributes of both vinyl and laminate, a new composite called hybrid flooring makes for the ideal choice. The visual beauty of vinyl and the durability of laminate come together perfectly, and with a similar cost to vinyl, hybrid flooring in difficult to pass over. Not all flooring companies offer hybrid flooring, but include the word “hybrid” in your Google search and you won’t be disappointed. Hybrid flooring is fast becoming the material of choice for Australian homeowners as it ticks al the boxes and does not cost a fortune.
Whatever you decide, you can expect your new flooring to last for many years, and with the right design, you can provide a base foundation for your interior designs.