Light Grey Oak (Howdens Professional Fast Fit V Groove Flooring)

Joinery Buying Guides

Flooring Buying Guide

Discover how different types of floor can complement any room, from washrooms and living spaces to food preparation areas. Within this guide, you can discover the different options available, and which is best to choose for your home or project.

What are the different types?

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Vinyl

Vinyl is hardwearing and highly water-resistant, protecting it from spills and stains over time. This means it is a sound investment in high-traffic areas, or those susceptible to wet and humid conditions, like washrooms and hallways. It is easy to maintain and clean – great for busy homes – and some types can be used with underfloor heating systems.

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Laminate

Laminate is a practical choice for trend-conscious homeowners as it offers the broadest range of colours and finishes. With options that replicate the look of wood, stone, and urban patterns, it is often a more cost-effective alternative to the real thing. It can also be used in rooms throughout the home, or in commercial premises, making it durable and versatile.

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Wood

Adding authentic, organic influences to a space, real wood is a premium option that can withstand high traffic areas and is renowned for retaining heat, making it warm underfoot. It does require more maintenance than other options with regular sanding and staining. This also means it can be refreshed over time or customised with a stain of choice for a unique look.

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Engineered Stone

This manmade surface is our most robust option as it is 100 per cent waterproof, scratch, heat, and stain-resistant This makes it a great choice for rentals, commercial properties, and homeowners looking for a long-lasting fit. It is also easy to install thanks to its click-fit system and does not require time to acclimatise to a space, or specialist tools for fitting.

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What to consider when planning a new floor

Footfall

Where you are placing new floorboards plays an important role in choosing the right type for your space. For example, some areas of the home are used more than others and will receive a high amount of traffic, such as hallways and cooking areas. These rooms need a durable material to withstand daily use.

Moisture

Similar to footfall, there are some rooms in the home that are more exposed to moisture than others, including washrooms, en-suites, and WCs. Conservatories, porches, utilities, and cooking areas also fall into this category, as they are susceptible to changing temperatures and require a stable material.

Warmth

If you are looking for a warmer feel underfoot then the right floor type can make all the difference and offer a more premium effect in the home. Often these areas are found in living spaces, like bedrooms, reception rooms, or dining rooms, with natural material being the prime choice for these areas.

Cost

The cost of floorboards makes a big impact on the choice you make, with some materials costing less than others. Floorboard packs are also measured in square metres, so the larger the area the bigger your budget needs to be. We also recommend adding an extra five per cent for cut variations and wastage.

Installation advice

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Tackle temperature changes

Some boards, such as hardwood, must be acclimatised before fitting as temperature changes cause expansion. It is important to leave boards in the room for around a day to adjust. Your builder will also allow for a gap between floors and walls during installation to anticipate fluctuations.

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Check the sub-floor

It is crucial that existing floors are removed and the sub-floor cleared of debris before new boards are laid. A levelling compound can be used to smooth over gaps and imperfections and ensure a sub-floor is completely level. Your builder may also require damp proofing to prevent moisture rising into the new boards.

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Get under the surface

An essential accessory with any floor type, underlay can help retain heat in a home - great for households looking to save energy - and it adds extra padding underfoot to reduce noise transfer. Some floors, such as engineered stone, have this layer pre-fitted which can save time on installation.

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Secure with a tight seal

Sealing a new surface will prevent damage over time and is essential when fitting floors in washrooms, utilities, or cooking areas. There are many compounds to choose from, including those that prevent moisture, mould, and bacteria. There is also a selection of colours to match your chosen floorboards.

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Add professional trims

Adding trims to a newly-fitted surface can create a professional finish that will also prolong the life of a new design. Some options will make cleaning easier by concealing gaps and preventing trapped dirt. While others can create a smooth transition from room to room making a home more accessible for all ages.

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Keep it protected

Using oils, lacquers or stains specifically designed for different floor types, such as solid wood, can protect them from water and sun damage, staining, or scratches that can occur over time. Some stains also make it easy to customise your new floor to your chosen decor, creating a premium finish.

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