Month: October 2020

Southern magnolia

Southern magnolia (Magnolia grandiflora), or just magnolia, (named after Pierre Magnol (1638 to 1715), a French botany professor) has large, showy flowers, making it the most beautiful ornamental tree in the American forest.

In addition to this species, there are many other magnolia species in the forests and used in horticultural plantings, both here in North America and in Asia. One North American commercial tree species is called cucumber tree or mountain magnolia (M. acuminata); the lumber is often included with yellow-poplar, as it appears similar, although a bit whiter. Another commercial and mainly horticultural tree is sweetbay (M. virginiana). Oftentimes the lumber of all three is sold as magnolia lumber.

The range of southern magnolia extends in a band about 100 miles wide from eastern North Carolina, south along the Atlantic Coast to central Florida, then westward through roughly the southern half of Georgia, Alabama, and Mississippi, and across Louisiana into southeast Texas. It is most prevalent in Louisiana, Mississippi, and Texas. It is the state tree of Mississippi.

Mature southern magnolia trees average 60 to 80 feet tall and 24 to 36 inches in diameter within 80 to 120 years. The branches can spread up to 40 feet. Its low-branching form gives it a graceful appearance.

Southern magnolia is best known for its creamy white flowers that are up to a foot long and are powerfully fragrant, blooming from June to September. The tree, even though a hardwood, is an evergreen.

In addition to lumber, southern magnolia provides other forest products. The seeds are eaten by squirrels, opossums, quail, and turkey. Some of the varieties of magnolia (especially swamp bay, M. Glauca, in the U.S.) have leaves, fruits, bark and wood that yield a variety of extracts with potential applications as pharmaceuticals.

One extract used in traditional Chinese medicine is called hou po; in Japanese, kōboku.  A bark extract has been shown to improve dental health, retarding bacterial decay and plaque formation. Health food stores often carry a magnolia bark extract.

Magnolia lumber is used principally in the manufacture of furniture (main use), doors and millwork, and pallets. Due to the straight grain, the wood is used for venetian blind slats, working as well or better than basswood. It would be easy to substitute magnolia for any use that now uses yellow-poplar.

However, this ignores the better properties of magnolia, such as hardness, as well as the lack of warping when the moisture changes. Overall, magnolia is an excellent wood, which is why it is so attractive for wood venetian blind slats. Custom furniture and cabinet manufacturers should be pleased with this wood species. A clear finish can show off the character that the various colors give to the wood.  For most furniture and cabinet uses, 4/4 will be the common thickness.

 

Processing suggestions and characteristics

Density. Magnolia is intermediate in density for U.S. hardwoods, averaging about 35 pounds per cubic foot when dry. A piece of lumber 15/16 inches x 6 inches x 12 feet dried to 7 percent MC will weigh about 17 pounds.

Drying. Southern magnolia is easy to dry with little risk of warping or checking. As with all white-colored woods, prompt sawing after harvesting the tree and rapid drying (low humidities) are essential for avoid blue stain and oxidation stains. Use dry stickers.

Gluing and machining. Gluing is fairly easy so long as surfaces are flat and freshly prepared. All standard woodworking adhesives work well.

Machining is fairly easy due to the modest density and straight grain. The fine, dry dust can cause breathing problems for a few people, so wear an appropriate mask.

Stability. Shrinkage in drying from green to 7 percent MC is 4.1 percent radially (width of quartersawn lumber or the thickness of flatsawn) and 5.1 tangentially (width of flatsawn lumber or the thickness of quartersawn). Because the grain is so straight, little or no warping will occur when the MC changes.

Strength and stiffness. Magnolia is moderately strong. Its strength (MOR) is 11,200 psi; its stiffness (MOE) is 1.40 million psi; and surface hardness is 1020 pounds.  For comparison, its close relative, yellow poplar, which is about 15 percent lighter weight, has values of 10,100 psi; 1.58 million psi; and 540 pounds. The increased hardness of magnolia is noteworthy.

Nail and screw holding of magnolia is also quite good; better than with yellow poplar.

Grain and color. The wood is fine textured with straight grain.  Annual growth rings are not too obvious.  The small amount of sapwood is yellowish white in color; the heartwood ranges from straw colored to faint green to fairly dark brown. Streaks of yellow, green, green-black and purple-black appear; the origin is unknown, but they often are called streaks of mineral, especially when grading.

This post appeared first on http://www.woodworkingnetwork.com

Black November 2020 

Got your super savings head on this November? Waiting for those Black Friday sales to arrive? Well, wait no longer. This month, for the whole month, we have amazing deals on all of our flooring ranges with our Black November Sale! 

Yes! You heard correctly. No more clock watching or setting reminders in your phone. Snap up a bargain any day, any time this November. 

 

Save time and order your flooring today! Our sales won’t change all month. Same offers, same price every day this November. 

 

Amazing Flooring Deals

 

Everyday this November we are offering up to 50% off plus an extra 10% discount. Our sale includes everything from best sellers, Solid Wood and Laminate to our popular EvoCore flooring. Whatever your wood flooring preference, there are savings to be had across the board!  

 

Forget the hustle and bustle of waiting for Black Friday; achieving your dream home has never been easier, or more affordable with Black November. 

 

You can get these amazing deals both in-store or online using code BLACK10 at the checkout. 

 

Speaking of checking out, let’s take a look at some of the fantastic deals you can find in our Black November Sale: 

 

EvoCore premium grey boston polar oak white laminate Natural Oak Chevron

EvoCore Premium Shoreline Grey Oak

Boston Oak Polar White Lacquered Engineered Wood

Chevron Natural Chevron Oak Laminate

Original Price: £59.99/m²

Original Price: £34.99/m²

Original Price: £24.99/m²

Black November Sale Price: 42.92/m² Black November Sale Price: 26.70/ Black November Sale Price: £16.69/m²
Add Samples to Cart  Add Samples to Cart 

Add Samples to Cart 

 

Stunning right? And these could be yours for a fraction of their usual cost. 

 

Super Savings with Black November

 

We know that renovations can sometimes be a large expense. It all depends on style, room sizes, and desires. For some that dream home, stays a dream home. But it doesn’t have to!

 

Take advantage of our sale today and become a step closer to that perfect kitchen, bathroom or living room. Whatever room you’re wanting to transform, we have flooring to feature. 

 

Not only are you being savvy, but you may be able to use the extra savings on renovating another part of your home, and just in time for Christmas too! 

 

Beat the rush 

 

If your flooring arrives and you think you purchased your flooring in a rush rather than beat the rush, we offer a generous 100 day return policy. If your flooring is not as you’d hoped, you can send it back. 

 

This is an additional benefit to Black November. Need to return your flooring? If you purchased it at the beginning of the month and aren’t so sure it’s the best one for you, send it back and continue to shop the sale! You have the whole month to look. 

 

So what are you waiting for? Make your dream home a reality and take advantage of our Black November Sale today!

 

If you need any more information regarding sales or flooring, get in touch with one of our flooring experts who will be happy to help!

 

The post Black November 2020  appeared first on Direct Wood Flooring Blog.

What is the difference between Solid and Engineered Wood?

At Luxury Flooring, one of the most common questions we get from our customers is: what are the differences between Solid and Engineered Wood? Both are made from real wood, but they differ in their construction and room compatibility. Here is our guide outlining the differences between these two varieties of flooring.

 

Construction

 

The first real difference between these two products is the way they are constructed. Solid wood is crafted from one single piece of timber which allows you to sand it down as many times as you like in case of damage. That being said, solid wood is undoubtedly one of the most durable floors on the market and it is generally not necessary to sand it down within the first 15-20 years after its installation.

Conversely, engineered wood is made up of multiple layers of plywood with a top layer of stunning solid wood. This wear layer does allow you to sand engineered wood down, but the thickness of this layer determines the number of times this can actually be done. Thanks to this robust construction, engineered flooring is resistant to changes in temperature and humidity making it compatible with underfloor heating.

 

Room compatibility

 

The incredible durability of solid wood flooring makes it an ideal choice for use in rooms that see the highest foot traffic, such as the hallway or the living room. However, it would not be suitable for use in a bathroom as it is not resistant to water. If you place solid wood in rooms that are exposed to large quantities of water, you risk damaging your floor. It is definitely worth remembering when you are choosing your flooring.

If you are really set on that real wood appearance in your bathroom, engineered wood is a great option. It is resistant to water, but we always recommend cleaning up any spillages as soon as possible. Engineered wood flooring is a perfect choice for any room in the house – its mix of practicality, durability and style ensure that it will enhance any room in which it is installed.

Here are some other differences and some similarities between solid and engineered wood:

  • Solid is generally more expensive than engineered
  • Both are available in a parquet style (Herringbone)
  • Both are able to be floated, glued or nailed down (depending on the particular product)
  • Solid wood has a slightly longer lifespan than engineered
  • Both are available in a wide range of finishes/colours/textures

 

Have Your Say

What do you prefer in home décor: minimalism or something with more character? Let us know in the comments below!

Remember to follow us on FacebookTwitter, and Instagram for the latest news and discussions. We’re always finding new ways to improve our stock, so keep up to date! Check out our Painswick Swift Oak in the picture above – a beautiful parquet floor which adds a touch of sophistication to any home!

The post What is the difference between Solid and Engineered Wood? appeared first on Blog & Advice Centre – Luxury Flooring & Furnishings.

This post appeared first on https://www.luxuryflooringandfurnishings.co.uk

How to style your home around a busy lifestyle

When designing your home, there are many important factors to consider: aesthetic, comfort and usability, just to name a few! But for those who lead busy lives, practicality is vital in order to be as productive as possible with a limited timeframe. Here are our tips for styling your home around a busy lifestyle.

 

Find a floor that works for you

 

Cleaning our home is one of the last tasks we want to do when we are balancing a busy lifestyle. That is why it is so important to choose a flooring that is easy to maintain. For this, we would recommend Luxury Vinyl Tiles. These tiles are resistant to scratches and stains and are therefore perfect for families with kids or pets.

It is exceptionally easy to clean an LVT floor – a quick sweep with a mop and broom will do the trick! Furthermore, our Luxury Vinyl Tiles are waterproof making them a brilliant choice for use in any room in the house, including the bathroom and the kitchen, allowing you to create a cohesive style throughout your home.

 

Create open-plan spaces

 

An excellent option for people who are maintaining busy lifestyles is to create open-plan spaces. Blending multiple rooms into one allows for ease of movement through your home and also creates an accessible and welcoming environment (which is perfect for entertaining guests!). To achieve this design, use the same flooring throughout in order to create a seamless flow. A chevron parquet would be ideal for this as it is a style that elongates any room in which it is laid.

We also recommend the use of ramp or T profiles – these flooring accessories are designed to join floors together where they meet (normally at a doorway). This allows you to create a smooth transition between flooring as all our door thresholds can be matched to your floor.

 

Save time with storage

 

Although it may seem counterproductive, spending time tidying up will save you time in the long run! In order to accommodate your busy lifestyle, make sure that everything in your home has its own place – that way, you know where to find things when in a rush. It also enables you to tidy up quickly and efficiently. The last thing you want when in a hurry is to trip over mess or items left out all over the place – having an efficient storing system is therefore a huge advantage.

 

Make the most of minimalism

 

Minimalism is a bit like marmite – you either love it or hate it! For some, it is the epitome of ‘zen’ and calmness but for others it represents a wholly impersonal style that does not represent the individual or their taste. However, if done correctly, a house designed in a minimalist style can become a perfect home for those with busy schedules.

Firstly, it is necessary to avoid over-cluttering your space. Try prioritising your favourite items and those which are essential to a home. Don’t over-complicate your décor either – make sure to choose simple pieces that complement your overall design. An easy way to strip back your possessions is to throw away any broken or unusable items. Don’t forget to check whether your items can be recycled or, if they are still in good condition, consider donating to a charity shop.

 

Have Your Say

What do you prefer in home décor: minimalism or something with more character? Let us know in the comments below!

Remember to follow us on FacebookTwitter, and Instagram for the latest news and discussions. We’re always finding new ways to improve our stock, so keep up to date! Check out our Chamonix Fawn Oak in the picture above – a beautiful parquet floor which adds a touch of sophistication to any home!

The post How to style your home around a busy lifestyle appeared first on Blog & Advice Centre – Luxury Flooring & Furnishings.

This post appeared first on https://www.luxuryflooringandfurnishings.co.uk

What accessories are best when laying flooring?

Choosing your flooring is a difficult and time-consuming process but once you’ve found the floor of your dreams, it all feels worthwhile. But your flooring journey doesn’t stop there – now you have to consider all the accessories that you need to accompany your flooring, both during the installation process and once the floor is laid. Here’s our guide of essential accessories that you need in order to complete your floor.

 

Part 1 – Installation

 

Although at Luxury Flooring we pride ourselves on having floors that are simple to fit, the installation process involves more than simply placing a few planks on the floor! First, you need to decide how you want to lay your floor – floating, nailing or gluing. For the majority of our solid wood products, we recommend that you glue the flooring to the sub-floor using an adhesive.

If you have underfloor heating, make sure to check that the adhesive you choose, as well as the floor itself, is compatible with this. Nearly all of our engineered wood floors are able to be floated – this method involves floating the planks on an underlay and applying PVA glue between the tongue and grooves of each plank for maximum stability.

 

Part 2 – The Finishing Touches

 

Whilst all our floors are incredibly beautiful by themselves, a room simply does not feel finished without the right flooring accessories. Skirting boards are available in a vast range of colours, widths and heights – you are sure to find ones which match perfectly to your floor and to your interior design. They are the perfect way to complete your floor by smoothing the transition from the flooring to the wall.

If you’re looking for a subtler option, beading is an excellent choice. It is typically smaller than skirting boards and works to fill the gap between your planks and the wall (or even between the planks and the skirting boards).

If you have laid flooring that runs through more than one room, it is highly likely that you will need ramp or T profiles. These accessories bridge the gap created by doorways, creating the link between the two rooms. If your rooms are level, you should choose a T profile whereas a ramp profile is the best option for when one level is higher than the other. These profiles are also available in multiple colours and materials in order to seamlessly match your floor.

 

Having the right accessories is the only way to successfully install your flooring and, ultimately, complete your room. Although it may not seem as important a decision as choosing the flooring itself, accessories can without a doubt make or break a room!

 

Have Your Say

What accessories can you recommend? Let us know in the comments!

Remember to follow us on FacebookTwitter, and Instagram for the latest news and discussions. We’re always finding new ways to improve our stock, so keep up to date!

The flooring featured in the image is our beautiful brushed and oiled Weeton Apple Oak.

The post What accessories are best when laying flooring? appeared first on Blog & Advice Centre – Luxury Flooring & Furnishings.

This post appeared first on https://www.luxuryflooringandfurnishings.co.uk

5 Reasons Hardwood Flooring Can Make Your Home More Child-Friendly

These days, hardwood flooring is a popular choice to create a timelessness elegance in any space. However, if you have children, there are an extra set of considerations you may need to think about before simply opting for a style you find aesthetically pleasing.

Hardwood flooring can sometimes be a little more temperamental than other floor surfaces such as tiles and carpet. While it’s an impossible task to keep any style of floor immaculate with children around – spills, muddy footprints and general play are all par for the course, right? –  certain hardwood flooring can be impacted by children much more than the other options.

That said, hardwood flooring can be the perfect addition to your family home (and can actually make it more child-friendly), especially if you make the right decision from the outset.

Here are the top 5 reasons you should consider hardwood flooring in your family home.

Some Hardwood Flooring Can Be More Durable Than Other Flooring Options

Durability is key when you have kids around, so choosing a wood that will stand the test your children put them through is essential.

Bamboo offers many benefits in this department; the perfect balance between stamina and style. While Bamboo has a similar appearance to timber, it is actually a harder substance, meaning that when the kids forget that the house isn’t their personal playground, there is less chance the floors will be scratched. Furthermore, bamboo is resistant to stains. Perfect for the inevitable spills that your little darlings will send its way!

But bamboo isn’t your only option. There are a number of durable hardwood flooring options which may be a good choice for you. Here’s a hot tip: before you set your sights on a wood you just love, check its Janka rating which will tell you just how durable it is. If it’s low, say no!

Lighter-Toned Woods can Disguise Dirt

You wouldn’t be alone if you thought that darker-colored woods would be perfect for hiding dirt, dust and debris. However, when it comes to hardwood flooring, the opposite applies. 

Light-colored hardwoods such as cherry or oak are a couple of options to consider for the family home because they minimize the appearance of dust and brighten up your living space. Certain light-colored options will help you maintain that effortless look without spending hours cleaning, which is a definite bonus when you’re too busy with the kids or you forgot it was your turn to host your family summer cookout!

Hardwood Floors Are Less Likely to Stain Than Carpets

With the kids running amok and that cup of juice sitting precariously close to the table’s edge, it won’t be long before it comes crashing down and spills all over your floor. This is where hardwood flooring really comes into its own, basking in its child-friendly glory! Unlike carpet, wooden floors are much less likely to stain. Simply wipe up the mess to remove any remnants of the accident!

Hardwood Floors Are a Healthier Alternative

Carpet and thick rugs collect dirt and food scraps like sponges. With hardwood floors, there are no worries that your little ones will be exposed to harmful substances trapped in the floor beneath them. After all, for most children, the floor is where they spend most of their playtime, so carpets provide the perfect breeding ground for them to get sick; hardwood flooring virtually eliminates that issue.

Not only this, hardwood floors are also a great alternative for children who suffer from allergies since they are less likely to collect pesky pollens or animal fur. If health and safety are a concern for you, hardwood floors are a great non-toxic choice for your family.

Hardwood Floors Are Easy To Clean

Let’s face it, life with kids means endlessly cleaning up after them. With that said, making decorating decisions to make clean up easier is definitely something that all parents should be thinking about. Enter, hardwood flooring.

Although hardwood flooring does come with a set of maintenance requirements, when it comes to cleaning up spills quickly, this versatile flooring option comes out on top. Unlike with carpet, you won’t be reaching for that hot bucket of water and a myriad of cleaning products when your little ones drop their cereal on the way to the table. You can simply wipe up the mess with a paper towel and run a slightly damp sponge over the area to remove any sticky residue. Easy!

5 Main Differences Between Solid Hardwood and Engineered Hardwood

When thinking about interior design, there are so many decisions to make. From deciding which kitchen cabinets you’d like to choosing windows, balancing style and practicality is a difficult feat.

That said, there’s no more difficult a decision than selecting the right flooring for your home. Unfortunately, there’s no one size fits all solution. That said if you’re looking for longevity, durability and style, you can’t often beat hardwood flooring. Whatever your style or individual requirements, the wide options of hardwood floors available mean you’re sure to find something to suit your space.

That said, while hardwood floors are elegant and timeless, they’re not all created equally. When it comes to hardwood floors there are two main types: solid and engineered. Solid hardwood planks are created from a single thick piece of wood. Engineered hardwood, on the other hand, has a core of plywood with a layer of hardwood veneer applied to the surface.  

Traditional solid hardwood floors have been in demand for many years but recently, engineered wooden floors have received a surge in popularity. As both options provide a beautiful finish, it can be hard to compare the two. To help you make an informed decision, we have compiled a list of 5 key differences between solid and engineered hardwood.

Cost

In most scenarios, your budget will help determine which option is best for you. Generally, engineered hardwood is less expensive than solid hardwood, but at the end of the day, the quality and species of the wood will be the largest price determinant. Ultimately, exotic varieties of solid wood are more expensive than engineered hardwood.

There is no definitive cost for either type, the price range varies greatly. The cost of engineered hardwood is generally $3 to $14 per square foot, but this price will depend on plank thickness and wood species. Depending on the hardness and durability of the wood, most solid hardwood floors cost between $8 and $15 per square foot.

Installation

As engineered hardwood is less likely to buckle or react to heat, there are a variety of installation options available. The fact that engineered wood does not react to changing temperatures, means that this alternative can be installed above or below ground level. Since solid hardwood will expand and contract over time, this wood can only be installed on or above ground level.

Engineered hardwood can be installed fast and in a variety of different spaces. This option is your best choice if you’re looking for a do-it-yourself project. Most styles of engineered wood can be glued or nailed down. In fact, in some cases, similar to laminate flooring, you can opt for a type that locks the planks together without fasteners.

Solid hardwoods generally have a longer installation process; the flooring is attached with a specific flooring nailer then sanded and finished. This sanding process can be difficult to navigate if you don’t have experience, and although you can do it yourself, hiring a professional will get the job done much quicker and neater!

Stability & Durability

The good news is that both forms of hardwood offer durability and toughness. That said, solid woods still come out on top and are inherently sturdier as they must be permanently nailed or glued to your subfloor.

That said, in extreme temperatures, engineered woods have greater structural stability, which offers better resistance against buckling. While this is definitely a benefit, the durability of engineered wood is not comparable to solid forms, mainly because the surfaces on these engineered types are quite thin and therefore prone to chips over time.

Moisture Resistance

When it comes to moisture, engineered wooden floors are probably the better choice. Engineered wood is constructed with a plywood base, which means that moisture is less likely to flex or warp the boards. The fibers in the plywood run in cross-wise layers, helping to resist moisture build-up.

Solid hardwood floors are not recommendable in any areas where moisture is prevalent. This means it’s probably best to avoid solid woods for your bathroom or any areas which require regular mopping. Even still, solid hardwood can still resist moisture to some extent, but this will depend on whether the wood is pre-finished or site-finished. Site-finished wood has a sealed top layer which helps to absorb some moisture.

Environmental Considerations

Most people want to support products that sustain a positive environmental approach. In most cases, engineered hardwood floors are more eco-friendly than solid wood. The manufacturing process for engineered wood is less wasteful and requires less energy than most other flooring types. However, this isn’t to say that selecting solid hardwood isn’t a sustainable option. You can still buy environmentally friendly solid wood, provided it is purchased from a responsible supplier and is certified by the FSC (Forest Stewardship Council).

So, there you have it! Hopefully, these differences will help take the hassle out of your hardwood flooring selection.

Still working from home? Here are some tips on how to transform your office space

We are all still learning to adjust to a new way of living, working from home being one of them. If you are still working from home and are tired of your boring old office space, then we have the solution for you. Make working from home less of a chore and more inviting by transforming your office space (this can also double up as a fun DIY project).

 

Declutter and Upgrade

Some may say this is the most important part of the office, the desk. Everything in the office is centered around this piece so you need to make sure it will make a statement. Is your current desk looking tired? Are your desk draws filled with clutter you didn’t know existed? If the answer to these questions is yes, then it’s time for an upgrade. Not only is getting a new desk more aesthetically pleasing and convenient, but it also gives you a chance to declutter and start afresh. Whether you’re feeling more traditional or modern, the perfect desk can piece everything together.

 

Comfort is key

When you’re spending all day in the same room you need to ensure you’re sitting comfortably. Invest in a good chair with excellent support. If your office has a more corporate and modern feel, a classic office chair will go a long way. On the other hand, if you’re looking for something a bit different opt for a plusher velvet accent chair – not only do they provide comfort, but they are also appealing to the eye.

 

Make a Statement

Sometimes all a room needs are a new lick of paint and fresh flooring to make it look like a completely different room. If you’re looking to make a statement, parquet flooring designs are perfect for any office space. The timeless plank arrangements blend the colours of the wood together seamlessly to get a classic yet modern finish. If you’re looking for something a bit more contemporary, grey flooring has become increasingly popular over the years and is often used in modern homes so if you fancy a big change grey wood flooring is flooring for you.

 

Be at one with Nature

Add some nature into your office by investing in office plants. Plants have been known to not only improve air quality but also reduce stress in office environments which are just some of the many benefits of having an office plant. The natural leafy green colours provide a relaxing and calming effect. Plants are also incorporated widely in modern interior design due to them making spaces look more appealing and alive. We advise starting with a small desk plant and work from there – it’s the perfect way to bring that little bit of nature to your office space.

 

Have your say

Looking to transform your office space? Let us know in the comments below!

Remember to follow us on FacebookTwitter, and Instagram for the latest news and discussions. We’re always finding new ways to improve our stock, so keep up to date

The post Still working from home? Here are some tips on how to transform your office space appeared first on Blog & Advice Centre – Luxury Flooring & Furnishings.

This post appeared first on https://www.luxuryflooringandfurnishings.co.uk

Autumn Interior Design Trends

Interior trends come and go. As summer fades, and the colder months hit, we want to ensure our homes are as comfortable and aesthetically pleasing as possible; the days of being outdoors in the sun are now just a mere memory until next year.  Let’s look at some of this year’s autumn interior trends, and how you can introduce them into your home. 

Walnut Wood

 

The first autumn interior design trend on our list focuses on the introduction of walnut wood. As wood is a material that makes up many interior components, this helps to facilitate walnut wood being introduced in more ways than one.

 

Coffee tables, chairs, ornaments, flooring. You name it; the luxurious, rich tones walnut wood delivers adds character and expense to any room of your home. 

 

EvoCore Nature - Walnut
EvoCore Nature – Walnut

 

This trend sees your home brought to life with a natural charm and beauty embracing the elements, and allowing a setting made beautiful with plant life, and warm furnishings. 

 

In a bathroom, the likely use of walnut wood would be flooring. Utilising sharp colours to decorate the other areas of the room, such as white tile, aids in a sleek contrast and brings out those dark inviting tones in the flooring. 

Flooring to Suit this Trend

 

As this particular trend features a species of wood, there are plenty of wood flooring types to cover the ground and keep up to date with this interior design trend of 2020.

 

To achieve the most authentic finish, you need to aim for dark, rich tones.

 

The brand new range EvoCore Nature would make for a great option. Featuring real wood layers, with natural aspects such as knots and grains from exposure to the outdoors. Pulling out those coffee undertones, this high-end flooring option adds a certain element of grandeur to any room. 

 

Engineered wood is extremely durable, taking the pressures of busy family homes, as well as looking amazing. Walnut engineered wood offers the perfect blend of style and practicality.

 

EvoCore Nature is another flooring that offers home-wide suitability, has a built-in cork underlay, and is highly durable. With those being just a few benefits the EvoCore Nature range has to offer. 

 

Laminate flooring is another flooring type option available in a walnut tone. This is one of the more price friendly options and will have a wider range of options to choose from. It’s extremely durable, scratch resistant and is long lasting. 

EvoCore Nature

Chalky Pink

 

Next on the list we’ll focus on making your living space a place of peace and tranquillity with this autumn interior design trend: chalky pink!

 

2020 has seen a rise in the need of looking after our minds. With pandemics, lock-downs and health being part of the collateral, it is important to look after your mind amongst all of the chaos. Having a peaceful place to kick back and relax can help you do just that. 

 

Pink is being introduced more and more across all areas of the home, particularly in kitchens and bathrooms. 

Chalky Pink kitchen

Creating this desired autumn interior design trend is easy because of the versatility involved. 

 

With the trend being colour-related, it means that this can be introduced with paint, accessories or furnishings. 

 

However you wish to bring in those calming tones, you won’t be disappointed with the end result. 

 

Flooring to Suit this Trend

 

With this trend, as a calming environment is aimed to be achieved, the suited flooring types come from those offering lighter tones. Opt for a light grey, or light oak colour flooring. This gives a light and airy feel, providing that serene setting to unwind in. 

 

With this flooring trend being commonly adopted in bathrooms, a flooring suited both practically and stylishly, is EvoCore

EvoCore Ranges

Available in a variety of ranges, EvoCore will certainly have a flooring suited to contrast your chalky pink decor.

 

EvoCore Essential and Premium ranges offer a wide range of benefits including: In-built underlay, high durability, waterproof, anti-slip surface, easy to install and is pet friendly. To name a few!

 

EvoCore 360 offers a host of benefits that will aid in adding an authenticity to your autumn interior design trend. Tiled and wood design, 360 click lock system can lay in herringbone pattern, and homewide suitability are just some of the benefits EvoCore 360 offers. 

 

Not only have you got a host of colours to choose from, with your light greys, and natural light oak shades to suit your chalky pink haven, but you’ve got amazing practical benefits too. 

 

EvoCore Nature again is suitable homewide, easy to maintain and has a real wood veneer, so you can bring a touch of the naturality of outside in. 

 

Another flooring type to complement this chalky pink style is laminate. Laminate is available in a range of styles and colours, including those needed to achieve this look, as well as being durable and hard wearing for those high traffic areas of the home!

Emerald Green

 

Our next autumn design trend that has made the list is bringing in the colour emerald green. While we’re about to tell you how to best fulfill this design trend, don’t worry, we aren’t about to suggest you go pick up the yellow bricks to form a road in your living room. 

emerald green

What we are going to suggest, however, is that you get the paint brush out and lather your walls in this opulent complexion. 

 

This autumn interior trend has taken off, and really comes into its own when coupled with darker surroundings such as dark wood floors, seaweed coloured plant life and black framed images. 

 

Another tip to get the full effect of this affluent emerald green tone is to include luxurious textures. Velvet soft furnishings such as couches furnished with pillows of a darker scheme all aid in completing the look. 

 

Flooring to Suit this Trend

 

The emerald green tones bring ease in introducing wood flooring into this design as the emerald green echoes the outside world with natural colours. 

 

Bringing the dark wood flooring into the mix continues to replicate this feel, and as we already know from beautiful outdoor landscapes and scenery that these colours affiliated with nature look amazing together, we already know these will work in the home. 

 

Because dark wood tones would make an exceptional pairing with this design, EvoCore and engineered wood flooring offer a significant amount of benefits, and offer those luxurious forest tones. 

 

Solid wood however, needs a moment to shine. With a luxurious finish, low maintenance, the ability to sand down and refinish when damaged and a long lifespan, solid wood is a great option. 

Emerald green floorings

However, where kitchens and bathrooms are concerned, solid wood should be avoided due to temperature and moisture fluctuations resulting in the possible expansion and contraction of the flooring due to it being made from natural materials. 

 

Alternative options to solid wood include laminate or EvoCore. Both of these flooring types offer an array of styles to choose from including in the darker wood tones needed to achieve this look, as well as having the suitability essential for these rooms.

 

Fun Bathroom Designs

 

Moving on to one of the more colourful trends on the list of autumn interior design trends of 2020: fun bathroom designs!

 

Now this one is a subjective matter, which is why we’ve included a few fun bathroom designs to give your creative side a kick in the right direction. 

 

Brace yourself for a whole lot of colour, patterns and funky designs. 

 

Patterns

 

patterns

This fun bathroom trend sees patterns fill our bathrooms and en-suites, and the quirkier the better. 

 

Complemented with typical, simple white bathroom furnishings, these patterns are made to stand out even more given the contrast of plain to patterned.

 

Bringing patterned accessories, wallpaper and flooring into the mix will give you the desired look.

 

Flooring to Suit this Trend

 

Where patterns are concerned, why not opt for the full package and add more patterns! Vinyl flooring is a great way to do this, available in a range of colours, styles and designs, including the popular tiled option, for bathrooms.

Vinyl is perfect for bathrooms in terms of practicality, too. It’s highly durable, waterproof, comfortable underfoot and doesn’t have to break the bank. 

 

Prints, prints and more prints!

prints

Prints are another autumn home interior trend that have changed the game when it comes to creating a feature in your home. 

 

They started in larger rooms of the home, bedrooms, living rooms, and have now made an appearance in smaller rooms such as bathrooms, en-suites and downstairs toilets. 

 

Prints can be added to your taste level, whether you want to go for the more contemporary feel and go for just a few, or you want to opt for lots. And lots. And lots. The choice is yours.

 

Either way they made for a great addition, and focal point in a space that can often be hard to decorate due to their practical nature. Finding designs to fit around your bath tubs, showers and sinks can be hard. But not with this fun design idea.

 

Flooring to Suit this Trend

 

For this trend your flooring is dependent on the content of your prints. 

 

Quick tip: contrast the frame to other colours in your bathroom, and then match the flooring to the frames. 

 

Should you have darker frames, go for a darker flooring. Think rich wood tones. Avoid the greys and whites and rely on those coffee shades. 

 

Alternatively, if you have lighter coloured frames, white for example, flooring of a white, light grey or light oak would make for a great pairing. 

 

The EvoCore ranges are great options to consider when it comes to bathroom floorings. Their durability and waterproof features, among a host of other benefits, make it fully functional in withstanding the pressures of the bathroom. 

 

EvoCore is also available in an array of styles and designs, so this will help when finding a flooring working to your contrast. Both lighter coloured flooring is available to match your lighter frames, as is darker shades, to match darker coloured frames. 

 

Vinyl is another great option. As previously mentioned its practicality meets the needs of the bathroom, as well as being available in a range of colours, designs and patterns. So if you want to opt for further contrast, those tiled black and white floors are a great choice.

 

Pop of colour. Or two.

pop of colour

Adding a pop of colour is another great autumn interior design trend we’re loving!

Bright colours are a great way to achieve that wow factor in your bathroom. Typically, bathrooms are not the largest rooms in the home. So adding those bright summer colours to lighten up the place means it hits you as soon as you walk in. 

 

These colours also complement the features in the bathroom well, with them being white, it adds to the contrast, further brightening the pops of colour. 

 

Flooring to Suit this Trend

 

Flooring to complement this interior design trend of 2020, similar to other trends we’ve mentioned, work best relying on contrast. 

 

Often a darker wood flooring achieves the best option with brighter colours such as orange and yellow. Whereas darker vibrant colours such as greens, and blues would contrast better with lighter wood floorings.

 

But as we’re referring to a host of possibility colour wise, we’ll focus on the suitability for bathrooms. As previously mentioned, vinyl and EvoCore are great flooring options for this design idea, with a host of both practical and personal benefits suited to the pressures the bathroom delivers. 

 

So for bathroom designs, you’re definitely not short of interior design options.

 

Multi-functional Spaces 

 

Moving on to a more versatile autumn interior design trend of 2020. Multi-functional spaces. 

multi-functional

The last few years have seen a rise in open plan living spaces, thus creating a rise in multi-functional spaces. From living and dining areas, to kitchen and dining areas, or all three. 

 

With this home design, many more people are opting for segmentation. Whilst they desire the open plan living, a differentiation of the areas in the space is still desired. 

 

For instance, a different flooring type, colour or style in the kitchen space is used to what is being used in the living or dining area. 

 

Flooring to Suit this Trend

 

A great flooring option for this is EvoCore 360.

 

EvoCore 360 is the most versatile flooring on the market, featuring a 360 omni-click system, it allows for not only an easy installation, but the ability to lay in a herringbone pattern, mix and match colours and fit wood to tile together seamlessly. 

These abilities make segmenting these areas easily attainable. 

 

Not only that, EvoCore 360 has practical features that make it perfect for these types of living space. With kitchens often being a prime component of these open plan, multi-functional spaces, EvoCore 360’s being suitable home-wide, waterproof, easy to maintain, this not only makes a great flooring for segmenting areas, but it works well in all areas of the home. 

 

Orange

 

Finally, we’ve saved the most autumnal design trend for last. Obvious maybe, but introducing those crisp warm tones into your living space can produce a welcoming, cosy space to spend those colder evenings. Amber, rust and burnt orange tones naturally associate with autumn, supplying warm vibes that give the desired, comfortable setting. 

 

This autumn interior design trend can be delivered by introducing these colours in painting your walls with these autumnal shades, accessorising with pillows and ornaments of these shades, or hanging prints featuring these colours. 

Orange trend

Flooring to Suit this Trend

 

With this trend, to further enhance the cosy theme, bring in a darker wood floor. This will aid in darkening the room slightly, further adding to the snug, homely space. 

 

Usually actioned in living rooms where this trend can be appreciated to its full extent; lamps on, feet up and hot drink in hand, you have a range of flooring options to couple with it. 

 

With the better flooring options being colour-dependent, laminate, solid wood, engineered wood, LVT or EvoCore would all be ample options. 

 

These floorings all offer a range of colours and styles to match this design. 

 

Fallen For Fall Trends?

 

So you’re up to date with the latest autumn interior design trends and know how to achieve them. It’s now up to you to implement them!

 

Get started with choosing the perfect flooring to match your design by ordering free samples today. If you have any questions regarding your flooring purchase, get in touch with one of our experts now. 

 

 

The post Autumn Interior Design Trends appeared first on Direct Wood Flooring Blog.

What is the difference between SPC and normal LVT Vinyl?

Choosing the right flooring can be a daunting decision especially in times where there is so much to choose from. New innovative floors are being created every day which makes the decision so much more difficult. One of these floors is vinyl. Vinyl has changed over the years and is now a sought-after choice for many.

One of the most common questions we’re asked is what is the difference between the luxury vinyl we’re all used too and this new vinyl composite? We’re here to clear all this up so you can choose the flooring best for your home!

 

Regular Luxury Vinyl Tiles (LVT)

LVT is crafted from a bespoke blend of PVC which gives it a flexible and soft exterior as well as a strong and durable core. This makes the flooring softer underfoot which is perfect for those with a busy lifestyle. LVT has been a popular choice in recent years due to the many compressed layers it’ holds giving it a strong waterproof top layer, this also makes it stain and scratch proof.

LVT can come in a range of designs and patterns delivering the authentic textures of classic natural materials. This makes it a perfect alternative to real wood flooring as it can perfectly emulate hardwood flooring at a lower overall cost.

 

SPC Vinyl

Vinyl flooring has come a long way since the 70’s it is now one of the most popular types of flooring and for all the right reasons. SPC is one of the most innovative products of vinyl flooring, as SPC stands for Stone Plastic Composite. This means a combination of limestone and stabilisers are used to create a durable core.

SPC Vinyl consists of many layers. A base layer, a core layer featuring the stone composite, a vinyl layer that features the flooring pattern and a wear layer that provides resistance this is thin and transparent and ensures the longevity of the product.

This new product of vinyl does not compromise any of the characteristics of normal vinyl but only enhances them due to the limestone composition. SPC vinyl is waterproof, stain proof and scratch proof so it’s the perfect flooring choice if you live a busy lifestyle and your floor sees a high level of foot traffic.

 

Now you know a bit more about the two products… let’s dive into how they differentiate:

 

Differences

  • Luxury Vinyl Tiles is softer underfoot than SPC this is due to the flexible and soft exterior of the product and the stone composite of SPC.

 

  • The hard layer of SPC vinyl could worsen a situation where an accident may happen in the home, therefore if you have children this is something to take into consideration.

 

  • Again, referring to the soft layer of LVT this also makes the product quieter underfoot so if you don’t want to be hearing people walk around in the middle of the night this is the flooring for you.

 

  • When it comes to indentation SPC is more durable due to its harder core. This is perfect for those with a busy lifestyle where their floorings could be prone to indentation.

 

  • SPC is generally more stable than LVT as it has a harder more durable core.

 

  • SPC hosts a thicker plank this is due to the several layers it consists of. This means it is known to last longer than LVT.

 

  • SPC and LVT are both affordable flooring choices, however, SPC is a little bit more expensive due to the many layers and how it is manufactured.

 

Things to consider

Despite the differences in flooring both SPC and LVT are waterproof, easy to install, easy to maintain and come in a range of patterns and colours. Your choice is based on what you think is best for your home life. If you live in a busy home where there will be a lot of foot traffic LVT is a recommended choice. If you live in a quieter home and are looking for something more durable SPC is the flooring for you.

 

Have your say

What type of vinyl flooring have you chosen? Let us know in the comments below!

Remember to follow us on FacebookTwitter, and Instagram for the latest news and discussions. We’re always finding new ways to improve our stock, so keep up to date!

The post What is the difference between SPC and normal LVT Vinyl? appeared first on Blog & Advice Centre – Luxury Flooring & Furnishings.

This post appeared first on https://www.luxuryflooringandfurnishings.co.uk

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