Discover our range of Laminate

One of the most exciting advancements in flooring technology is the development of waterproof laminate flooring, offering improved protection against everyday spills and accidents. This makes it a great option for areas like kitchens, entryways, and open-plan living spaces where exposure to moisture is more common.

If you have children or pets, waterproof laminate flooring provides peace of mind, ensuring accidental spills won’t lead to damage. Talk to your local Flooring Xtra store for more information. 

Preventive Care

One of the most effective ways to protect your floor and maintain its appearance is to minimise shoe-wearing inside. This prevents dirt, grit, and stones from being walked across your floor, which could cause scratches and damage over time. Regularly vacuuming your floor with the bristles down or sweeping it with an electrostatic mop is essential to remove loose dirt and debris. The more often you do this, the better protected your floor will be from wear and tear.

It’s also important to use quality floor mops for cleaning. Before use, thoroughly wash any new mops to remove any residual lint from the manufacturing process. When cleaning your floors, always avoid steam mops, as they can damage the surface. Similarly, do not wax or polish your floor, as these can create build-up and lead to dullness.

A damp mop is the best choice for cleaning, but be careful not to use excessive water, as it can seep in and cause damage. Avoid using abrasive cleaners, steel wool, scouring powders, oil soaps, wax, soap-based detergents, or other household cleaning products, as they can harm your floor’s finish.

If spills occur, clean them up immediately to prevent stains or damage. To protect your floors from dirt and grit being tracked in, we highly recommend placing door mats at all external entrances.

Regular Maintenance

Regular maintenance is key to preserving your floor’s beauty. Wipe up spills promptly using a dry cloth or paper towel. For sticky substances, moisten the cloth slightly. Keeping dirt at bay with frequent vacuuming or sweeping will also help prevent wear and tear over time.

Laminate flooring has made impressive strides in recent years. Modern laminate floors feature highly realistic wood grain patterns, knots, and laminate flooring colours, making them a convincing replica of real timber. Laminate is typically constructed from fiberboard with a printed photographic layer applied to the surface, which mimics the appearance of natural materials. These boards are installed using a click-lock system, making the process relatively straightforward.

One of the biggest advantages of laminate flooring is its low maintenance. The surface is durable and easy to clean, requiring little more than regular sweeping and occasional damp mopping. Additionally, laminate is known for being durable, resistant to scratches, stains, and fading, and is more affordable than solid timber flooring. Installation is also simpler compared to traditional hardwood or floating floors, as the subfloor preparation is generally less stringent. Laminate is ideal for homeowners looking for a budget-friendly, attractive option that can withstand daily wear and tear.

In addition to timber-look vinyl, stone-look vinyl is also a fantastic alternative to real stone, offering a similar aesthetic but with added benefits. Stone-look vinyl provides a variety of tones and styles that replicate the appearance of real stone surfaces. Unlike imitation stone tiles or other materials, vinyl stone flooring is warmer to the touch, making it more comfortable underfoot, especially in colder environments. This makes stone-look vinyl a great option for those who love the look of stone but want a softer, more affordable, and easier-to-maintain alternative.

A floor rug can offer numerous benefits when placed on hard flooring, enhancing both the aesthetics and functionality of a room. Whether it’s a sleek hardwood, laminate, or tile floor, a well-chosen rug can provide the perfect combination of style, comfort, and protection.

1. Comfort and Warmth- One of the most significant benefits of a floor rug is the added comfort it provides. Hard floors, such as tiles or timber, can feel cold and hard underfoot, especially during colder months. A rug creates a softer surface, offering warmth and comfort to anyone walking on it. This is particularly useful in living rooms, bedrooms, or spaces where people tend to walk barefoot, adding a cosy and inviting atmosphere to the room.

2. Noise Reduction- Hard floors can often create an echo or amplify sound, which can lead to a noisy, uncomfortable environment. Rugs, especially those made from thicker materials, can help absorb sound and reduce noise levels. This is particularly beneficial in homes with large open spaces or multiple hard flooring surfaces. The rug’s material helps to dampen footsteps and muffle other sounds, contributing to a quieter and more peaceful living space.

3. Protection for Floors- Floor rugs also provide protection for your hard flooring. The high foot traffic in a room can cause scratches, dents, or scuffs on your floors, especially if they are made from softer materials like hard flooring timbers, laminates and vinyl. A rug acts as a barrier, shielding the floor from daily wear and tear. It also prevents dirt, dust, and moisture from coming into direct contact with the flooring, making it easier to maintain and clean the floor underneath.

4. Aesthetic Appeal- A well-placed rug can dramatically enhance the visual appeal of a room. Rugs come in a variety of colours, patterns, and textures, allowing you to add personality and style to your space. Whether you’re looking to create a focal point or complement existing décor, a rug can tie the entire room together. It’s an easy way to add colour, texture, and warmth to any area, from living rooms and dining rooms to entryways and bedrooms.

5. Safety- Another important benefit of rugs on hard flooring is safety. Hard floors can be slippery, especially in areas where spills are common, such as kitchens and bathrooms. A rug provides added traction, reducing the risk of slips and falls. Additionally, rugs with non-slip backing help prevent movement, keeping them securely in place even in high-traffic areas.

6. Zoning spaces – Rugs are a great way to frame a space or zone in particular areas within a larger space, such as in open-plan living. An open-plan living and dining area, for example, can really benefit from a rug or two to make it feel cosier and more coherent. Ensure that the rug is always larger in length than the largest furniture item it’s sitting under or against, such as the sofa or dining table. This means it won’t feel like it’s floating about the space.

In conclusion, adding a floor rug to your hard flooring not only enhances comfort and style but also offers practical benefits such as noise reduction, floor protection, and safety. Whether you’re seeking warmth, aesthetics, or function, a rug can be a simple yet effective addition to any space.