Finding timber flooring that is suitable for your home can be a difficult process. There are so many choices and sometimes, it can feel overwhelming knowing which option to go with. The team at Timber 2 U Directknow a thing or two about timber flooring, so we thought we would go through the different types to help your decision become a little easier.
What is Timber Flooring?
Timber flooring is the name given to manufactured timber that is to be used as flooring. It can be used for structural purposes or merely aesthetics. Wood flooring comes in many designs, colours, cuts, and styles.
The History of Timber Flooring
People have been using wood for the floors in their houses for centuries, dating back to the 1600s. At first, timber flooring was often just planks that were unfinished, placed on top of dirt or stone. A more thought out, aesthetic version of this flooring really blossomed during the Baroque Era, making it something the rich and wealthy would incorporate in their homes. With the continued success of what was then known as wood carpet, timber flooring continued to crop up in homes throughout the Victorian Era and ahead into the present day. The 1920s did see a dip in wooden flooring installation, with linoleum and cork flooring becoming increasingly popular with homeowners due to the minimal upkeep. In the 1930s, a no wax finish that was introduced meant that people began to buy wooden flooring again.
The Different Types of Timber Flooring
Just like any type of timber fixture, there is always more than one option. This should not be viewed as something that is overwhelming, but as an exciting opportunity to customise and personalise your wooden flooring to match how you want your home to look. Let’s go through some of the different types of timber flooring you can choose from!
Laminate Flooring
The most popular type of timber flooring is laminate flooring. This is compressed fibreboard plank covered with a photographic image of wood, with a protective overlay. This type of flooring is the most inexpensive, however, it may not give you the authentic wooden look you are after. Laminate flooring is good for areas of your home that will be used frequently and need cleaning often such as studies, playrooms, and your living room. You can also get laminate flooring that is waterproof, making it suitable for use in your bathroom and kitchen too. Laminate flooring is very hard wearing. It can, however, swell over time due to moisture, so this is something to keep in mind when you install it.
Solid Wood Flooring
Solid wood flooring is the oldest type of timber flooring from our list, yet is still very popular amongst homeowners. This type of flooring is incredibly durable and likely to last you decades. Even though it’s a little above most people’s budget, you will not need to replace it, making it worth it’s money. You can refinish and stain this flooring in any colours you wish. It is relatively low maintenance; however, it can scratch should furniture scrape against it. We would recommend getting felt pads for your furniture, such as chairs and sofas, to stop it marking your flooring.
Engineered Timber Flooring
This type of flooring consists of three of four layers of wood glued together. It then creates a thick plank and can be sanded to restore the original finish. Engineered timber flooring is good to install in your living room, dining room, or bedroom. You should avoid placing it in the bathroom due to the high humidity. This is one of the more expensive types of timber flooring, but it is cheaper than solid wood flooring.
Things to Remember
If you are still not sure which direction to go in, here are some of the things you should keep in mind when making your decision.
Plan it Carefully
You need to decide if you want a contemporary look or a traditional look. You are able to stain some woods if they don’t come in the colour you are looking for, but there are many woods that have natural colours and shades that might be perfect for your home.
Where is your Flooring Going?
There is no point in laying down timber flooring that is not durable in a high traffic area. Hardwoods like oak and walnut are often the best answers for busier parts of the home. Softwoods tend to scratch more easily so are best used for quieter parts of your home. You will also want to consider the bathroom and kitchen – the humid environments. These areas must be fitted with flooring that will not expand due to moisture.
Apply a Coating
No matter what flooring you choose, it may be worthwhile applying a protective coating to it. Most timber sellers, including Timber 2 U Direct, can apply a finish to your product before it arrives with you. Lacquer, oil, and wax are the best options. Lacquer can prevent your flooring from being damaged.
Ready to Add Timber Flooring to Your Home?
Now you know the options available to you and we’ve given you our tips, it’s time to purchase your timber flooring. Here at Timber 2 U Direct, we have wide range of made to measure timbers on offer. Our timber range includes a variety of over 50 hardwoods and softwoods, so you can find the exact match for your new flooring! Once you have ordered your wood for your timber flooring from us, you don’t have to worry about coming to pick it up! We can deliver your timber straight to your door from one of our timber yards around the country.
If you have any more questions about timber flooring or our products and services, do not hesitate to get in touch with our friendly team today. Alternatively, call us on 0115 993 1111 – we would love to hear from you!
