What type of flooring is best for what room?

One of the most common questions we get asked is what flooring is best for certain rooms in the house. Choosing the wrong flooring can make or break a room in your home, so we have put together a guide on choosing the best flooring for every room in your home.

 

Kitchens

Kitchens are known to be the hub of the house, so when it comes to picking the perfect flooring for your kitchen it may seem like the toughest decision in the world. Due to the kitchen having the most hardworking floors in your home, it is important to choose a flooring that can withstand all possible activities.

Luxury vinyl tiles (LVT) are one of the most popular choices of flooring for kitchens. The innovation of vinyl tiles has made it one of the most sought-after floorings in recent years. Rising in popularity, luxury vinyl tiles are water, stain and scratch proof making it one of the most durable choices of flooring. LVT also comes in a wide range of colours and patterns which means you can achieve that hardwood flooring aesthetic without the frequent maintenance.

 

Bathrooms

The main question to consider when choosing flooring for your bathroom is, is it waterproof? Bathroom flooring will endure frequent splashes of water so solid wood flooring is out of the picture. The most compatible flooring for bathrooms is ceramic, LVT and engineered wood, this is due to their hardwearing, withstanding properties. They are all able to withstand water, however, LVT and ceramic flooring are waterproof so if you have children these two are the more appropriate options.

Bathrooms are one of the most common rooms to have installed underfloor heating as it is now more commonly a place used to relax and unwind, underfloor heating takes the chill off the cold flooring in the mornings. All ceramic, LVT and engineered wood flooring are suitable for underfloor heating.

 

Bedroom and Living Room

Bedrooms and Living Room spaces main goals are the aesthetic rather than the practicality. This means any type of flooring is perfect for the living room and bedroom spaces. In the past, carpets are frequently used for these rooms. Trends have now changed and achieving that hardwood floor in these rooms has become more popular.

Hardwood flooring creates and more traditional and classier feel to any room. One of the most popular styles in recent years is herringbone parquet flooring. The transition of shades through the plank pattern creates a beautiful and elegant feel to your room as well as making a big statement. Parquet flooring also looks good when accompanied by different styles of rugs, so you can still get that soft carpet feel without compromising your whole floor.

 

Hallway and Stairs

Your hallway and stairs will always see a large amount of foot traffic, this is hard to avoid as it is just a part of life! We recommend a durable flooring for hallways. If you’re looking to achieve a hardwood style, then Engineered or Solid wood is perfect for your hallway as they are both durable and have a high wear layer meaning they can be sanded down and refinished if needs be. If you’re looking for something a bit cheaper then Vinyl and Laminate are both also very durable and perfect for families that endure lots of spillages.

If you are looking to make a good first impression, parquet flooring is perfect for making a statement. Growing in popularity over the years, parquet flooring is often associated with elegancy and class whilst holding a traditional and rustic appearance.

 

Things to remember

We always recommend after any spillages to clean them up in a good amount of time. This will avoid any long-term damages to your flooring.

 

Have Your Say

What flooring do you have in your house? Share your thoughts down below!

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

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For many of us, flooring can be one of those larger expenses on the renovation list and keeping up with the latest trends and styles can add to the pressure of making sure we keep our house up to date and looking the part. 

 

To help you get the most bang for your buck, we’ve accumulated some of the latest flooring styles and how to achieve them when working with a budget. 

Flooring Styles

Patterns

 

Geometric, stripes, aztec; whatever you’re into, there’s a style to suit you. 

 

Bring those abstract patterns and designs to the foundations of your rooms, creating a stand-out feature in your home. 

 

This trend is becoming more and more popular, with a particular rise in the use in kitchens and bathrooms, and can be achieved at very friendly price points. 

 

Laminate is a great option when it comes to this design. It is now available in a host of styles and designs, including tile designs. On top of being a great practical addition to any home being highly durable and hard wearing as well as being easy to maintain.

 

Another flooring type suited to budgeting and this style is vinyl. Vinyl rolls offer a multitude of designs so there’s something to tickle everyone’s fancy. Whether it’s the antique tile effect, or the quirky mosaic. You can guarantee the diverse options delivered by vinyl will peak your interest. 

 

Not only is vinyl on the lower end of the scale when it comes to cost, it has an abundance of benefits including: home-wide suitability, durability and easy maintenance, so you really are getting more for your money. 

Price 

 

Laminate flooring is priced at around £8.74/m², so these benefits and amazing designs can be fulfilled at a reasonable price!

 

Where price is concerned, vinyl ranges start from around £8.99 /m², making it one of the cheaper flooring options on the market. It’s unique designs can allow you to achieve those high end looks, without shelling out. 

 

Rustic

 

Yes! You heard correctly, rustic is the new, well… New. 

 

Rustic interiors bring a unique and authentic beauty, utilising natural earthy tones and textures to your space. Some like to say rustic is a ‘rough around the edges’ look. We like to say it’s natural charm. 

Now we know you’re probably thinking that an authentic solid wood flooring is a great option to get this kind of outcome. And it would be.  

 

But remember, we’re shopping on a budget! So let’s look at more attractively-priced options to obtain a rustic vibe in your home. 

 

One option you could opt for is laminate. Laminate comes in an array of colours and styles, with some of those styles making a perfect fit for your rustic dream. 

When it comes to rustic, bringing the outdoors in, is what will achieve you the best results. Look for those knots and grains that show the natural effects of the outdoors to gain a more genuine feel.

 

Price

 

Moving onto price, laminate is a great option for working with budgets whilst getting more for your money. 

 

Starting at around £8.74/m², offering homewide suitability (subject to AC rating), available in a range of colours and styles and is great in terms of durability, laminate flooring means you get a tonne of great benefits for a smaller price. 

 

Grey

 

Surely you’ve seen grey become a long standing trend that doesn’t seem to be shifting any time soon? Grey walls, grey doors, and not to forget grey floors. 

Where grey floors are concerned, the options are of the many. As this trend relies on simply sticking to a colour scheme, this gives you an easier job where choice is concerned. But whilst narrowing down a colour is easy, we need to focus on which of these options will bring the desired grey look without having to crack open the piggy bank.

One option with a more attractive price is laminate. Grey laminate is becoming a popular option, not only being desired because of a trend but it’s functionality too. 

 

Laminate is durable, so perfect for those high traffic areas, households with children and pets. Not only is this flooring great value for money, but everyone is happy!

 

Price

 

As previously mentioned for another flooring style, laminate starts at around £8.74/m², so where budgets needed to be reigned in, this flooring makes it easier to do so. 

 

Comfort

 

After some added comfort in your home? Why not introduce the more traditional neutral tones into your rooms. You know the ones we’re talking about. The beiges. The browns. The creams. Carpet is a great, and cost effective way to do so. 

 

These traditional, lighter tones create a neutral ground for you to change decor around them through time periods. One thing that always seems to stick are these types of carpets. They add comfort, give that blank canvas aspect because just about everything goes with them, and they look great!

Another option to consider if comfort is your desired outcome, is laying a wood flooring that can be installed as a floating floor with a thick underlay. 

 

EvoCore is a flooring options that will give exceptional warmth in your home, and coupled with a thick underlay, this will trap heat, as well as adding comfort underfoot. 

 

Price 

 

Starting from as little as £5.99/m², you can bring comfort, and this long term trend to your home.

 

Alternatively, EvoCore has multiple ranges starting from £34.99/m², with a range of styles, colours, and designs to suit. There is something for everyone!

 

Stone and Tile 

 

The final trend we’ll look at is stone and tile. This trend is another long term trend that saw a phasing out, and is seeing a comeback. 

 

This trend is a desired look in kitchens, bathrooms and hallways, and we have the perfect flooring to suit. EvoCore.  

 

 

In particular the EvoCore 360 range and the EvoCore Premium range, with the offering of tile designs to fit! 

 

Considering kitchens, bathrooms, and hallways are popular areas for this flooring style, EvoCore makes both a perfect style and practicality choice. 

 

These are all high traffic areas of the home, and need the flooring to support it. 

 

EvoCore 360 offers an array of benefits to suit these needs. From the desired tile design, with the ability to mix and match colours and styles thanks to a 360 omni-click system, to being waterproof, suitable for any room of the home, and highly durable. To name a few. 

The EvoCore Premium range, available in tiled design, is another option when looking to achieve a stone or tile look. 

 

• Waterproof
• Petproof
• Childproof
• Scratch resistant
• Built-in underlay
• Quick and ebay installation 

 

There are just some of the benefits of EvoCore Premium, and why you should choose it as the foundations of your home. 

 

Price 

 

EvoCore 360 tile ranges start from £38.99/m², and Premium starts from £44.99/m². 

 

The EvoCore tile ranges work as an alternative for ceramic tile, and whilst these prices are around a similar cost, the EvoCore ranges bring a whole lot more to the table for the price you pay.

 

Ceramic tile is installed with grout between each tile which can be hard to clean, whereas EvoCore is easy to maintain. Additionally, replacing damaged tiles can be difficult due to the way they are installed. EvoCore on the other hand is highly durable and easy to replace. 

 

With these benefits in mind, with EvoCore you’re getting more for your money!

 

Top Tips for Flooring Styles on a Budget

 

Throughout this article we’ve given some handy tips on how to shop smart when it comes to flooring. But let’s go over them in more detail to ensure you’re armed with as many tips and knowledge possible to keep your budget down and your savings up!

 

Sales and Promotions

 

Sales and promotions are when stores offer products are reduced prices for a period of time, making products more accessible to more people. 

These types of offers are not limited to any specific industry meaning you have a great chance of coming across events such as these when looking for your flooring. 

 

There are typical sales you can look out for, often seasonal or bank holiday sales. These are times you can expect to see reductions in prices. However, some stores run general events that you can keep an eye out for to get the most for your money when purchasing your flooring. 

 

Sales can usually be accessed in stores and online. Look out for “Sales” and “Special Offer” buttons on websites, usually found in the navigation bars.

 

Remnants and Roll Ends

 

The genesis of vinyl and carpet is from a roll. They’re then cut to size depending on the needs of a customer. As the roll gets closer to the end, the roll size is reduced to a size in which there is no sense in continuing to cut as is usually near enough standard room size. 

 

These roll ends are usually sold at a cheaper price as they come in a standard size and are usually enough to cover either one room or enough to cover one room with some excess. 

 

So to save a few pounds, especially in those smaller rooms of the home, look for remnants when purchasing carpet and vinyls.

 

Price matching

 

In some cases, stores can sell the same product. It happens. However, when shopping around, some stores will offer you a price match option if you buy the flooring from them. And in even better cases, some stores will offer you a price match plus the offering of some more discount. I.e. Here at Direct Wood Flooring, we pride ourselves in selling unique flooring, though should the same flooring be sold elsewhere, our price match offering is price match plus 10%.

 

This is something you should look out for should take advantage of when shopping on a budget and doing your research! When looking around for the best flooring for the best prices, make note of places that sell the same flooring and see what their price match policy is. 

 

Finance

 

Finance options are another way to budget. However, this is something you should only consider if you are in the financial position to do so. If you are renovating your home and think at that given time a larger chunk of money would be better spent elsewhere, there are stores that will allow you to spread the cost with a finance agreement. 

 

Underlay 

 

Another cost saving option is underlay. You may be thinking that this is another thing you’re going to have to pay for, and it is. However, you’ll be pleased to know that whilst underlay is an added expense now, it could potentially save you more money in the long run. 

 

Underlay protects the longevity of your flooring, prolonging the lifespan, meaning less chance of having to replace your flooring prematurely from unsupported foundations. 

 

Another money saving factor of underlay is that it is great for heating insulation. This means those heating bills can be reduced as you won’t need the heating on for as long, or not at all. 

 

Underlay also offers a host of other practical and personal benefits such as: added comfort and helps with noise reduction.

 

Save. Save. And Save.

 

Now you’ve had some of the best tips and tricks in the book when it comes to flooring styles, so it’s time to action them and put your budgeting smarts to use. 

 

Should you have any questions regarding any of the flooring styles, or tips above, contact one of our flooring experts now, and they’ll be happy to assist.

The post 5 Flooring Styles that Look the Part Without Breaking the Bank appeared first on Direct Wood Flooring Blog.

Summer might be over, but it’s time to make room for the best season of the year… Autumn! Dust off that winter coat, indulge in a hot chocolate and get cosy in front of the TV ready to binge that new series on Netflix.

 

As seasons change, so do the trends. We’re here to make sure you get ahead of the trends and get your home ready for the best time of the year. Here are some of our favourite Autumn trends that are here to stay!

 

Stripped-back Simplicity

As the weather outside starts to get colder, the colours inside begin to get warmer. Throw that colour wheel away this season, strip back the colour and embrace those warm neutral tones. From beige to oatmeal, these warm tones are very on-trend and will provide any home with a timeless, clean and enduring ambience. Choosing a neutral base colour gives you endless opportunities to add a splash of colour to your home through throws, cushions and rugs.

 

If you feel yourself slowly gravitating towards the idea of installing more neutral flooring, then there are many options out there for you. One of the most popular flooring patterns at the moment is parquet flooring. The parquet style planks blend together beautifully to create a timeless and classy feel which goes perfectly with neutral tones.

 

Cosy Countryside

The words cosy and autumn go hand in hand, and this is what this trend is about. The classic country house style has been a favourite for many years, it’s now time to bring the traditional countryside home interior to you. Whether you live in a big city or out in the country this trend is here to stay.

 

The go to colour for this theme is sage. The earthy green and brown tones work together with the rustic and traditional styles of a country house interior, making it the perfect choice if you’re looking to upgrade your boring bedroom, transform your bathroom or give your kitchen an accent wall.

 

It’s no secret that country houses are commonly linked with beautiful and authentic real wood flooring. There is nothing better than a traditional look and we have a huge range for you to choose from. When trying to achieve this look we recommend Solid Wood Flooring or Engineered Wood. 

 

Back in Black

In contrast to our previous trends, this one is for those who are willing to step outside of their comfort zone. Black flooring is a bit like marmite, you either love it or you hate it, and we love it! In recent years black flooring has become more desirable and has been named one of the most stylish flooring trends of 2020, this is because black flooring exudes luxury and class.

 

Black flooring can come in a range of flooring materials from vinyl tiles, solid wood, laminate and engineered. The flooring has a stain that can be added to any range of your choice. When choosing your black flooring we recommend choosing luxury vinyl tiles (LVT). LVT flooring comes with a beautifully textured finish that emulates hardwood flooring without the stress of the upkeep meaning you can have a good-as-new flooring all year round, who wouldn’t want that?

 

Have your say

Which one is your favourite trend? Let us know in the comments below!

 

Remember to follow us on Facebook, Twitter, 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 Unique Trends To Look Out For In Autumn Trends 2020 appeared first on Blog & Advice Centre – Luxury Flooring & Furnishings.

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Flooring isn’t just there to look pretty; it also serves a number of practical and money saving purposes too. With autumn closing in on us, many of you might be wondering how you can reduce the cost of your heating bills. What if we told you that you can actually save money on your heating bills by being tactful with your flooring choice.

It’s fun spending money on fancy furniture, lavish holidays and snazzy cars but less so seeing your money go down the drain in bills, especially heating at they tend to be the biggest money guzzlers! Most of us typically associated carpet with being warm and insulating in nature, but there are other options that can be just as good if not better.

How Can Wood Flooring Save You Money & Energy

Although wood floors can be mistaken for being cold and hard, wood is actually brilliant at trapping heat, making it a great insulator and keeping your home warmer for longer.

Although carpets are soft under foot, homely and warm it ends up being a much more short-term solution. It doesn’t tend to last as long as alternatives such as wood, laminate and luxury vinyl tiles as carpet is more likely to show wear after a few years.

However, when we look at wood, in comparison to carpet wood is far more durable and will last for many years after installation even with heavy use. The heat circulation is the best feature however – you’ll almost certainly notice a difference in your heating bills!

When it comes to specific types of wood, engineered is your best bet. It is much more affordable than solid due to the nature of the plank construction, which also means it’s better at absorbing heat. Not only will this retain heat and therefore keeping your bills down, but this also means it is compatible with under-floor heating which is cheaper to run than traditional radiators.

Even though wood flooring can have a considerably high price tag than alternatives, due to its energy efficiency it’ll help increase the selling value of your home, meaning it can often end up paying for itself – lasting a lifetime if cared for properly! Even if you’ve just moved into your home with no intention of selling it in the near future, it is worth considering giving yourself the best chance as possible when it is time to move on.

Under floor heating is something we’re seeing more and more of in modern homes, so investing in it will not only save money on your heating bills but also contribute to your home’s overall selling value.

Have Your Say

Do you have any knowledge to share with us on ? Let us know in the comments below!

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

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When it comes to interior design, accessibility is a key consideration. It’s important to ensure safety and ease of mobility around any home. In this blog, we’re going to offer advice on the best flooring types for wheelchair users with reduced mobility, to help make the most of living spaces.

There are a range of suitable flooring’s for wheelchair users which allow ease of mobility. These include: engineered wood, EvoCore, and LVT to name a few, with thick pile carpets, low quality vinyls and slippery tiled surfaces being amongst the few that are less suitable. 

There are key factors to consider to ensure safety and mobility are optimal as possible:

 

1. Durability
2. Grip
3. Comfort
4. Room Type
5. Transitions

 

Firstly though, we’re going to look at the different flooring types, and their suitability for wheelchair users.

Flooring Types

 

Different types of flooring will cater for wheelchair use better than others, with them being made with materials. Real wood, laminate and vinyl planks are the most suitable flooring types for ease of movement when it comes to wheelchairs users, and below we’ll look into why. 

 

 

Real Wood Flooring

 

Wood flooring, such as engineered wood and solid wood, provide a great surface for wheelchair users. 

 

With a hard surface, this allows for smooth and comfortable movability, avoiding any restrictions and slipping. These surfaces are highly durable, and solid and engineered wood can also be refinished if any cosmetic damage occurs. Scuffs or scrapes are no problem; the flooring can be brought back to life with ease.

Laminate

 

Laminate flooring is a top contender when it comes to manoeuvrability, and header-wearing construction. 

 

However, we recommend buying a high grade laminate to ensure flooring’s longevity, which also prevents the need for early replacement.

 

An AC rating of AC3 or above would make a suitable flooring for wheelchair users, with a recommended rating of AC5 for bathrooms and kitchens to ensure they meet suitability needs. 

Vinyl Planks 

Luxury Vinyl Tiles (LVT)

 

LVT makes for one of the best flooring options for wheelchair users. It’s highly durable, and suitable for any room of the home. For ease of movement and access around the home, Luxury Vinyl Tile is a great option. Click LVT features a thicket board which aids in providing more durability. 

 

EvoCore

 

EvoCore is another one of the best flooring’s for wheelchair users. This eco friendly option offers durability and home-wide suitability, meaning safety, confidence and mobility are optimal, as well as providing bespoke eye catching designs. EvoCore features scratch resistant surfaces and high durability. Perfect for facilitating the motions of a wheelchair. 

Flooring Types to Avoid

 

• Thick pile carpets – reduces or halts movement.
• Tile – Glossy finish tile can present slippery surfaces, leading to skidding, alteration of speed, or reduced effect of a brake.
• Vinyl Roll – Whilst not all vinyl roll should be avoided, lower grade options should be avoided where possible, as durability may provide future cosmetic issues resulting in the need to replace. 

 

Key Flooring Considerations for Wheelchair Users

Safety and manoeuvring will be front of mind when choosing the best flooring.. 

 

Whilst design and appearance are nice-to-haves, they may be secondary to ensuring you’re confident in mobility in your own home.

1. Durability 

 

First on the list is durability. As expected, wheelchairs can often be heavy on flooring, particularly motorised ones. 

 

Flooring should be practical in its ability to cater for this, as well as being able to handle manoeuvring to prevent cosmetic damage such as scuffs, scratches and lifting. 

 

Considering safety first, flooring wouldn’t be practical in its purpose if it did not cater for these needs. 

 

Damage to its appearance as a result of wheelchair presence is avoidable by considering high-durability flooring options. Experiencing comfort within an interior, as well as having mobility without the need for constant caution, sounds like a win-win scenario. 

 

This can be achieved with flooring such as EvoCore or engineered wood, being easy on the eye and offering extremely high durability. 

 

EvoCore

 

EvoCore Essentials and Premium are both made of a combination of 7 different layers to create an extremely resistant and durable flooring. It’s scratch resistant surface and textured surface makes for a great foundation for wheelchair users, whilst looking amazing in any room of the home, offering a wide array of designs and styles. 

 

 

Whatever range opted for in terms of compatibility for wheelchair users, EvoCore can withstand the test of time offering wear resistance, the ability to manoeuvre with ease whilst looking amazing in the process.  

 

Engineered Wood 

 

With engineered wood, this can be finished with a lacquer or oil, adding not only a natural charm but a protective layer to aid in durability. 

2. Slippery Surfaces

 

Another key consideration when it comes to the best flooring for wheelchair users is slippery surfaces. Traction is an important part of offering ease of movement, and this is something that smoother surfaces don’t tend to account for. 

 

Glossy finishes and ceramic tile are just some of the surfaces that can reduce wheelchair movement, alter speeds, or affect the efficiency of a brake due to the lack of traction. 

 

To allow safe and easy movement around a home, flooring options such as LVT, engineered wood, or a low pile carpet that isn’t too dense, usually loop piles rather than twist or Saxony as it offers smoother traction.

3. Comfort 

 

Where comfort is concerned, there are multiple flooring options for wheelchair users. Comfort is an each to their own factor, and when it comes to those who rely on the use of a wheelchair, there are physical factors to consider. 

 

With some wheelchairs being manual, this can have a physical effect on the body. Physical comfort should not be disregarded, and flooring can impact this. 

 

To prevent making mobility a strenuous activity, laminate flooring, LVT or engineered wood will make manoeuvring around your home a breeze. 

 

Thick carpet is another surface that will affect comfort. For more reasons than one. 

 

Carpets can cushion any falls and slow down speed, however thick-piled will reduce movement, and more energy and strength to push and rotate the wheels of the wheelchair. It’s important to consider which of these are most important before making a decision.

 

4. Room Type

 

Certain flooring’s go better in certain rooms, that’s just a fact. 

 

With different requirements for different rooms of the home, needs coupled with suitability can make options more limited as a wheelchair user.

 

In bathrooms and kitchens, popular choices for these rooms of the home are tiled flooring’s. However, some tile flooring’s are finished with slippery surfaces that could affect mobility. If this is your desired design, not to worry. Some flooring’s offer slip resistant surfaces and tiled patterns, providing the design you want with the suitability you need. Flooring’s such as slip resistant vinyl and EvoCore 360 will do the job perfectly. 

 

 

Kitchens

 

When it comes to kitchen flooring’s, a popular choice is tile. However, some tile flooring’s are finished with slippery surfaces that could affect mobility. If this is your desired design, not to worry. If this is your desired design, not to worry. Some flooring’s offer slip resistant surfaces and tiled patterns, providing the design you want with the suitability you need. Flooring’s such as slip resistant vinyl and EvoCore 360 will do the job perfectly. 

 

Bathrooms

 

Bathrooms are another room of the home that tiled flooring’s are often desired in. Similarly to kitchens, this room of the home requires flooring that will need to suit the everyday functions that occur there, as well as catering for wheelchair access. Again, like the kitchen, flooring’s such as slip resistant vinyl and EvoCore will suit these needs. 

5. Transitions

Transitioning between rooms in a wheelchair is another thing to consider when it comes to finding the best surface for wheelchairs. This is because when moving from room to room, surfaces can alter. Laminate to carpet, carpet to solid wood, whatever the surfaces of your home, having varied surface textures can cause exhaustion, especially if transitioning from surfaces that allow ease of movement, to ones that don’t. Where possible, having the same or similar flooring types that offer ease of wheelchair movement such as laminate or LVT, is something to consider when it comes to creating the flooring suitable for wheelchair users. 

 

Another thing to consider is keeping room transitions level to prevent getting stuck. Mini ramps can help with this. 

 

All Flooring Types and Their Suitability

 

Flooring Type	Suitability
Solid Wood	Suitable due to durability, however not suitable for kitchens and bathrooms due to temperature fluctuations.
Engineered Wood	Home-wide suitability and highly durable makes for a suitable flooring for wheelchair users.
Laminate	Laminate with an AC rating AC3 or above would make a suitable flooring for wheelchair users, with a recommended rating of AC5 for bathrooms.
Luxury Vinyl Tile (LVT)	LVT makes for one of the best flooring’s for wheelchair users, being highly durable, and suitable for any room of the home.
Vinyl Roll	Vinyl roll is suitable providing you have ensured it comes with slip resistance. However, durability in some cases isn’t always a strong suit.
Tile	Whilst some tiled flooring can be used, ensure the slip resistance where possible as certain finishes such as glossy, or ceramic tile can cause skidding and slipping.
Carpet	Low pile carpets can make a great flooring for those confined to a wheelchair. However, carpets with a thicker pile can hinder movement and be strenuous.
EvoCore	EvoCore is another one of the best flooring’s for wheelchair users. Again offering durability and home-wide suitability.

 

Hopefully this blog has answered your questions on recommendations when it comes to suitable flooring for wheelchair users. However, should you need more information, our team of experts would be more than happy to answer any questions, get in touch now. 

The post Best Flooring For Wheelchair Users appeared first on Direct Wood Flooring Blog.

Parquet flooring has a long history, dating all the way back to the 15th century. A few years back, it was considered outdated and an old flooring option. However, it’s made a massive come back in recent years and is now back on trend and rightfully so! It’s increasing popularity is due to a number of reasons, so let’s have a look at what makes it so popular – that you’ll be dying to lay it in your own home!

What Is It Though?

But before we dive into all that, let’s have a look at exactly what it is. It consists of strips of wood, primarily arranged geometrically to create an intricate and luxurious looking pattern. With the help pf social media and many of us lusting after an authentic look, parquet flooring is as popular as ever. It can come in either engineered or solid wood, with even some luxury vinyl tiles coming in a parquet arrangement!

Hey Good Looking!

Of course, one of the main reasons we choose a flooring is due to the way it looks – there’s no point in going for a flooring that you haven’t fallen in love with! The good news is that the main reason parquet flooring is chosen by homeowners is because of its aesthetically pleasing looks – it’s famous for adding a luxurious and grand look to your home. This probably because it stems back to old manor houses having it! The designs, help the floor to stand out in its own right and not just ‘blend in’ so you’re getting plenty of character and charisma. However, the best part about parquet is that it is very versatile and will work with any interior theme, that be whether you’re into a contemporary or traditional look. If you’re wanting to impress your guests, then there’s no better way than with parquet, this is the primary reason it’s bang on trend.

Plenty Of Option

You’re not restricted in terms of variety with parquet wood either. Very few other flooring options offer such an intricate pattern as parquet, working well with small and large rooms – we’d especially recommend parquet in a large room to bring proportion to it.

The sophisticated look of parquet flooring means that the designs look as though they have been manually brought together, showing off a sophisticated order. They come in triangles, squares, rectangles so you can almost hand pick exactly what you want.

Variety doesn’t just stop at plank arrangements. There are many wood types, colour and finishes that you can customise your new flooring to your exact taste. You can also choose between a lacquered, oiled brushed finish to suit your personal needs and preferences, it’s a whole other ball park!

Durability Is Mega

If you’re familiar with wood flooring, then you’ll know how durable it is! It will last for a lifetime and is even likely to outlive even the person who laid it. It is probably the most durable flooring choice available on the market with the added benefit of being able to sand it down and refinish it. Wood flooring will have no problem standing up to lots of foot fall, perfect for rooms that see lots of traffic such as the hallway and living room.

One thing to keep in mind however is that the durability will depend on the wear layer or thickness. One with a bigger thickness or wear layer is of course going to last longer than one with a smaller one, but at a cost. So it’s just something you need to weigh up.

Practicality

Nobody wants a flooring that they’re going to constantly be worrying and be precious about! The good news it that maintenance is relatively easy with wood flooring. However it can stain and scratch and is no good when it comes into contact with water, so be aware of this! It is a lot better than carpet though, with one spill of red wine and it’s all over! Although wood flooring can stain its much more salvageable than carpet, as well as the busy pattern of parquet being good at disguising any damage!

Cleaning & Allergens

With many of us suffering from allergens, it’s something many of us put as a priority when choosing our next floor. Even though it might come as a surprise, the type of flooring you have in your home can actually set your allergies off. The worst being carpet, with it harbouring dust and debris. With this being said, wood flooring is fantastic when it comes to those of your with allergies and nothing stays on its surface. It is also very easy to keep clean, with only needing a quick sweep and mop a few times a week to keep it hygienic. What you see is that you get with wood, nothing lurking!

Have Your Say

Do you have any tips to share with us on updating your interior? Let us know in the comments section below!

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

The image features our: Thorpe Ranch Oak Herringbone (PAR409).

The post Why Choose Parquet Wood Flooring? appeared first on Blog & Advice Centre – Luxury Flooring & Furnishings.

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With the housing market being very rocky, especially due to all that’s gone on, many of us are choosing to stay put in our own homes and do the necessary changes to make it suitable. There’s no reason you can’t make your home feel like a completely different place – yes you’ve guessed it, a renovation!

Conversions

Adding extra square footage to your home can be very expensive and sometimes you wish you’d just moved instead! However reinventing your existing space in your home is the perfect way to save money. Change your dusty old attic into a fabulous guest room, your basement into a snazzy air bed and breakfast or the garage into extra living space – be clever with the space you have. Basements can also work well as play or games rooms, as well as the attic being perfect for a creative studio.

Refresh Your Bathroom

If your home has just one bathroom, you can increase the value of your home hugely by installing another another bathroom. The best way to do this is to look for extra storage cupboards, like under the stairs. You could also spend the money revamping your current bathroom! An old fashioned, tired bathroom is something that’s very hard to look past, maybe because replacing sinks and showers is much more expensive than just changing the furniture. One way of adding value is making sure you include a bath, this is a huge selling point especially with young families.

Energy Efficiency

With many of us growing more and more concerned about our carbon footprint and always looking for ways to save money, our heating bills are a good place to start. Old, draughty single pane windows are a massive turn off, as well as looking outdated! The same works for insulation, with old doors letting in the cold much more than modern ones. But perhaps the best thing to consider of all is under-floor heating. Although it is expensive and disruptive to install, it can end up saving you a lot of money in the long run and will really wow perspective buyers.

Basic Updates

These are boring and sometimes tiresome but they simply need to be done to prevent your house from falling apart! Keep the paint topped up and fresh, make sure the roof is fixed to prevent any leaks, keep your gutter clear of debris, tackle and mould or rot and fix holes in the wall. The last thing you want to be doing is to splashing out on a flashy new kitchen to then find there’s rotting timber beneath the surface.

Prioritise the Kitchen

Its no secret that the kitchen is at the heart of the home and because of this its the most important room to keep updated! We’re going to jump on the band wagon and tell you to rip out your kitchen in favour of the beautifully modern open-plan room. We’d say if you only have the budget to update one room – make it the kitchen. However, there’s a fine line between making your kitchen adhere to your tastes and not going too overboard. Less is more with the kitchen, don’t fill every corner with decoration, keep things stylishly minimalistic – things are likely to get dumped there anyway!

Have Your Say

Do you have any tips to share with us on updating your interior? Let us know in the comments section below!

Remember to follow us on Facebook, Twitter, 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 Home Improvements That You Need To Try appeared first on Blog & Advice Centre – Luxury Flooring & Furnishings.

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

Laminate flooring is an old faithful in the flooring world. Though new patterns and designs are in the running for favoured foundations in a home, laminate is a go-to for a great flooring that does the job and suits your design taste, with tonnes of designs to choose from. It’s the perfect cost-effective alternative to real wood flooring too. Whilst its reputation speaks for itself, we’ll look into a list of pros and cons of laminate flooring to answer your questions as to whether or not it’s the flooring for you. 

 

There are many pros of laminate flooring. These include: 

1. Ease of maintenance
2. Highly durable depending especially with a high AC rating (AC5)
3. It’s an affordable alternative to solid or engineered wood
4. Installation is quick and easy
5. Available in an array of colours and styles
6. Lifespan on average of 15-25 years
7. Suitable with all rooms of the home. AC5 is recommended for bathroom use
8. Suitable for furniture presence
9. Suitable for underfloor heating

 

With alternative cons consisting of:

1. Can’t be refinished if experiencing damage
2. Not as quiet as carpet, but can be resolved with underlay or T profiles
3. Can provide a slippery surface if AC level is lower

 

Pros of laminate flooring

1. Maintenance

 

A key factor to consider when buying any flooring is maintenance. This is because flooring is a noticeable feature, provides the foundations of your home, and can often be on the larger side of your interior investments. 

 

For these reasons, caution is often taken when it comes to things like cleaning and caring for your flooring. 

 

With laminate flooring, maintenance is a breeze. When cleaning laminate, a micro fibre spray mop, with a specialist floor cleaner, is a great way to remove dust, dirt, or grime. 

 

Too much moisture exposure will cause cosmetic damage and lifting over time. A versatile all-in-one cleaning kit will provide everything you need to have your floor gleaming and cleaned properly. 

 

 

2. Durability

 

Another benefit of laminate flooring is durability. Laminate flooring comes with an AC rating that defines how strong and durable the laminate is. The higher the number, the more durable the floor. Though a higher AC rating doesn’t always mean the best as they all serve a different purpose and suit different needs. 

 

Laminate Flooring AC Ratings

 

AC1

Suitable for moderate traffic. Best suited to use in bedrooms or guest rooms.

AC2

Suitable for general traffic like Dining or living rooms.

AC3

Suitable for heavy traffic. Generally suitable for all areas, especially areas such as hallways.

AC4

Suitable for moderate traffic in commercial spaces. Think small offices, cafés or smaller retail outlets.

AC5

Suitable for heavy traffic in commercial spaces. Large department stores, public buildings and large offices.

 

As well as having varied levels of durability, being able to withstand a high dosage of foot traffic, laminate also features a scratch-resistant wear layer. 

So for those busy family, homes where your laminate planks become lanes in a monster truck rally, scratches and cosmetic damage doesn’t have to be a concern. 

 

3. Cost

 

Where budgets are concerned, laminate flooring offers a wide variety of designs, and needs. Generally, the bigger the requirement in terms of durability and wear, and lifespan, the more expensive the laminate. 

 

If you’re looking for that real wood look, but at a more affordable price, then laminate is the perfect option for you. Giving all the luxury and rich textures of a real wood flooring, whilst providing durability, at a budget-friendly cost. 

 

4. Installation is easy and DIY friendly 

 

Here’s one for those DIY enthusiasts; Laminate is extremely easy to install!  So get out your tool belt, and pen at the ready to cross off another skill, because our click-lock fitting mechanism makes it quick and easy to lay laminate. No qualms, just clicks, and your flooring is laid. 

 

Floating floor installations are the recommended option when it comes to installing laminate flooring. This means that your flooring isn’t fixed to the subfloor with any kind of adhesive. 

 

Though one thing to be cautious of is the condition of your subfloor. If you have an uneven subfloor, or you’re laying on top of concrete, ensure you use appropriate underlay to prevent issues such as damp and movement in the flooring. If you’re laying over concrete, we recommend an underlay with in-built damp proof membrane (DPM).

How to fit your Laminate flooring

 

For an easy how to guide on how to fit your laminate flooring, check out the video below.

4. Offers an Array of Styles 

 

Got an eye for design? Laminate comes in an array of colours and designs, so whatever you style, there will be an option for you. Dark wood? Light wood? Grey? Whatever your style preference, there is something for everyone. 

 

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Loft Dark Grey	Valencia Tile Retro Blue	Herringbone Pearl Oak
More Info	More Info	More Info
Add to Cart	Add to Cart	Add to Cart

 

5. Long Lasting

 

The lifespan for laminate flooring varies, with the average being between 15-25 years.

 

Some lower grade laminates may need replacing after around 10 years, with higher grade potentially lasting around 30 years. 

 

These estimated life spans mean your flooring can follow you through the decades and be ready to change when new design eras come into play, so you’re not spending unnecessary money on premature replacements.

 

If you do want to keep your laminate for even longer, it’s also easy to repair or replace damaged boards.

 

 

5. Room Suitability 

 

Home-wide suitability is another pro on the list when it comes to laminate flooring. 

 

As well as your high-traffic areas of the homes such as living rooms and hallways, laminate can also be used in rooms serving a purpose that needs a little more consideration. 

Laminate is also compatible with kitchens and bathrooms providing you use an AC level of AC4 or AC5. To ensure confidence in functionality in a bathroom, AC5 is the recommended option as these tend to be more water-resistant. 

 

Some AC4 laminates also come with a water resistant feature. However, though this is not always the case, so ensure this is clarified before purchasing. Our Villa, Residence Narrow and Supreme 12mm Long Board ranges offer this feature.

 

6. Suitable for furniture

 

Laminate flooring is capable of withstanding the presence of furniture.

 

When moving furniture, ensure its moved correctly, lifted rather than pushed along your flooring to ensure maximum reduction of cosmetic damage. 

 

Dropping the furniture may result in chips or cracks, so as long as it’s handled with care upon manoeuvring, your furniture can sit comfortably on a laminated surface, furnishing your room to your liking. 

 

To further ease your mind and aid in the protection of your flooring, felt furniture pads can be used to put under the legs of furniture to create a barrier between the furniture and flooring. This will aid in scratch prevention. 

 

7. Suitable for use with underfloor heating

 

Underfloor heating is becoming a more and more popular addition in the family home, adding comfort warmth and homely essence. To add to the list of pros, laminate is suitable for use with underfloor heating. 

 

So you can have this appealing, durable flooring in your home, complementing your underfloor heating system perfectly. 

 

Cons of laminate flooring

 

1. Can’t be Refinished

 

Unlike some other types of flooring, laminate can’t be sanded down and refinished. Once it’s worn or cosmetic damage shows, your flooring will need to be replaced or repaired.

 

However, the lifespan of laminate flooring is 15-25 years on average. By the time enough wear is present to the point of notice, it may be time to replace your flooring anyway.

 

2. Not as quiet as carpet  

 

Laminate flooring is quite rigid and installed directly on the subfloor, which means walking on laminate can be noisy underfoot. Whilst this can be an issue, it doesn’t have to be left unresolved. 

 

T profiles

 

One way to reduce noise produced by laminate flooring is using transitions between rooms. Using T profiles between rooms in arches or doorways, can reduce noise by taking pressure away from the mid section of the flooring area. 

 

Underlay for Laminate Flooring

 

Another way to reduce noise is by using an appropriate underlay. Additionally, this adds a cushion between the subfloor and the laminate, creating a barrier between the flooring and subfloor, giving added comfort underfoot. 

 

Underlay comes in variations depending on flooring type and needs. Check out our blog on underlay for wood, laminate and other hardwood flooring, to make sure you get the best underlay for your needs. 

 

3. Can be a slippery surface

 

With busy family homes comes little footprints that are often followed by thud, thud, thud!

 

Laminate flooring may provide a slippery surface in certain rooms. This could lead to things such as falls, which means extra caution needs to be taken if you have little ones. 

 

However, this caution can however be thrown to the wind, as there are preventative measures that can be taken to reduce slipping. 

 

AC Rating

 

One thing to aid in slip prevention is AC ratings. A higher AC rating offers a textured surface giving better slip resistance so this will ease your mind when it comes to those little feet running in socks. 

 

Underlay for Laminate Flooring

 

Another thing to consider is underlay, so even though we can’t fully rule out slips and falls, underlay can cushion these mishaps, reducing injury. 

 

Is laminate flooring for you?

 

As you have probably picked up, the pros and cons of laminate flooring are unbalanced in the favour of pros. 

 

Whilst there are some cons to laminate, they’re outweighed by the many benefits laminate can bring to your home. Its practicality, affordability and adaptability to design aesthetic are just some of the reasons laminate flooring makes for a great contender in any home. 

 

Have more questions regarding laminate flooring? Not a problem, get in touch with one of our flooring experts today for further assistance. 

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