Types of Hard Flooring

Floating boards are generally constructed using a timber veneer, which is bound to a timber substrate board. Given the thickness of the timber element is much finer than that of solid timber boards, floating flooring is considered to be more sustainable as much less timber is required to achieve a similar look and feel. Floating boards are popular in many applications, such as new homes (more cost effective than solid boards), units and apartments (for acoustic reasons) and family homes (low maintenance and hard-wearing). These boards are available in many different stains, sizes and looks, meaning there is definitely going to be an option for most properties. They are also quick to install with much of the preparation done within a factory prior to coming to site. They are pre-coated, meaning easy and prompt installation on the day.

Solid timber boards are the thickest of the solid floor family and are generally the most expensive of all the options. To install solid timber boards is not only costlier, it is also more time consuming. The process of installing the boards can take up to a month, from acclimatising the boards, installing, sanding and polishing. There are many beautiful options to chose from and Australia is blessed to have many local varieties of timber which are more than suitable for our homes. Timber boards do take time to maintain and have a level of up-keep which other options may not be burdened by, such as denting and scratching. In saying this, the thicker style board allows for some sanding back and re-furbishing if required. Our beautiful older homes in Australia are testament to this!

Hybrid Flooring is 100% waterproof flooring and the latest advancement in flooring. With the rise of popularity in open plan living, Hybrid Flooring has become a straightforward solution for homes where a carefree lifestyle is a priority.
Hybrid Flooring combines the best elements of Laminate Floating Floor and Luxury Vinyl Plank into one durable and cost effective solution.
You can now achieve an authentic timber look floor with some added features and benefits not normally associated with a timber or laminate floor.

For those looking for an eco-friendly option, cork is a great choice. Cork floors provide a number of great benefits;
not only are they renewable and stripped from the bark of a tree by hand, they are also versatile enough to be used in a range of spaces with ease. It is also warm and quiet underfoot, easy to clean and durable.

Timber look laminate has come a long way and there are currently many great looking, quality brands and options available. The actual “look” of the new laminates is fantastic, with realistic timber grains, knots and stains replicated onto the product making for a convincing replica. This is generally constructed from fibreboard with a photo applied to the surface. These boards are clicked into place on site. Laminate flooring comes with many benefits and features, such as a low maintenance and hygienic surface to maintain. It is also easy to install, with the preparation of the surface being less stringent than that of timber or floating boards.

Bamboo is warm and sophisticated in appearance, has many similar properties as hardwood floors and is considered from an environmental viewpoint to be superior to other materials. Bamboo floors are very durable; in fact, they can be considered more durable than their hardwood friends. This point alone makes the material a worthy option for a family home or spaces of high use. In saying this, bamboo is a natural material and is not immune to general wear and tear or ill-treatment. Bamboo grows at a very rapid rate to be at complete maturity in only three to five years. Given this is a lot quicker than hardwood timber flooring materials, bamboo has made a name for itself as being the ‘green’ flooring option. When bamboo is cut, the roots also remain in the ground, allowing for quick re-growth.

Hard Flooring Care
As long as you follow our tips for preventative care and maintenance, your flooring should continue to look fabulous and should extend the life of your floor and wear well for many years to come.
