If you’re looking to install a new wood floor, it pays to be aware of the different types of wood flooring available on the market. By learning more about the cost, design options, pros, and cons of each wood flooring type, you can ensure that you’ve selected the right wood floor for your new project.

There are five main wood flooring types: Cork, bamboo, engineered hardwood, solid hardwood, and laminate. Let’s take a closer look at their key characteristics and other important details.

Laminate Flooring

It’s an affordable option that’s designed to withstand regular amounts of wear and tear. They are best suited for living areas. Certain brands also design them with waterproof cores, which is great for houses that are constantly plagued by water-related problems.

However, it’s worth noting that even top-quality laminate does not come close to the effect of genuine wood floors. It is also susceptible to moisture-related damage, which cannot be repaired. Additionally, unless it’s laid out the right way, it may not be attractive to potential buyers or renters.

Based on the style and brand, laminate tends to range between $0.5-$6 per sqft. There are a number of attractive choices you can select from.

Solid Hardwood

Based on the specific species you choose, some floors tend to be sturdier than others. These floors can be further sanded and refinished as many times as needed for restoring its beauty.

Solid hardwood improves the visual appeal of a business or home to a great extent and raises its value in case it gets listed for sale later on.

However, they do swell up in the presence of excess moisture and contract when the area starts drying. These changes may cause significant alterations to the floor & result in structural problems. Installation is extremely complex and has to be managed with care. Solid hardwood is also extremely expensive compared to other wood floors.

Engineered Hardwood

This is a highly stable product that’s considerably less vulnerable to humidity and temperature fluctuations. The flooring also looks more attractive compared to laminate floors and is more affordable compared to solid hardwood.

The price ranges from £2 – £11 per sqft based on the brand and style. They are available in a number of options for matching any décor with ease.

Bamboo

Apart from being moisture resistant, it’s also an environmentally-friendly option and ideal for people looking to go green. It is softer compared to traditional hardwoods and recommended for people with leg pains.

However, bamboo is quite expensive and brittle. Although it is durable, it’s susceptible to scratches and dings. The cost ranges between $2 – $8 per sqft, making it a pricier option.

Cork

Cork floors are environment-friendly since cork happens to be a renewable and sustainable resource. It is also naturally soft and comfortable, thus absorbing any shocks with ease. It is ideal in environments where people need to stand for extended time periods. Cork also reduces the noise generated by falling items or traffic. Apart from being bug-resistant, it’s also hypo-allergenic.

However, cork flooring is also more expensive compared to other flooring options. Materials, import, and installation costs can easily drive up the price. Its soft nature also leaves it susceptible to damage from shoes and furniture. The total cost starts at around $3 for cork tiles and increases in the case of stains and planks. Being aware of various important characteristics of wood floors can help you make the right choice for your projects. Ensure the wood floor type you select is ideal for your décor, location, and budget.

Wood Floor Restoration and Refinishers – Floorboard Sanding

Almar Furniture & Floor Restoration and French Polishing, 1 Duke Humphrey Rd, Blackheath, London SE3 0TU , 020 3475 9866 .

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