Wood floors are extremely popular. They are extremely versatile and look good in many different styles of homes. There are different types of wood flooring for consumers to choose from. The style of flooring that consumers choose depends on individual preferences and needs.
1. Laminate Flooring
Laminate flooring is made of layers of wood. The top layer is finished off with a photographic image of wood. Laminate is available in a wide variety of styles and colours to match any room in any style of home. This is an economic option and alternative to traditional wood flooring. For ease of installation, consumers can choose click-lock laminate. With click-lock laminate the pieces snap together for a great fit.
2. Solid Hardwood Flooring
Solid hardwood floors are what most people think of when they think of traditional hardwood floors. This type of flooring is made of a solid piece of wood. Due to the fact that it is a solid piece of wood it is more prone to swelling and shrinking based on moisture content. Common species of wood that are used to make hardwood floors include oak, cherry, walnut, and ash, just to name a few. By nature, this type of flooring has natural texturing and character. This type of flooring is considered top of the line when it comes to hardwood flooring.
3. Engineered Hardwood Flooring
Engineered flooring is in between solid hardwood flooring and laminate flooring. It is constructed of pieces of wood glued together with a solid piece of wood as the top layer so that it can be sanded and refinished as desired. This type of wood flooring has several advantages. It is a more stable product and is not as likely to change shape or swell and shrink as moisture changes.
4. Bamboo Flooring
Bamboo flooring is constructed of bamboo grass in China. This type of flooring is visually appealing with advantages to consumers. Bamboo flooring is resistant to moisture because bamboo grass is naturally moisture resistant. It is a softer flooring that is easier on the joints, and it is great for reducing noise. For those who are interested in going green and being environmentally friendly, bamboo flooring is a great option.
5. Cork Floors
This type of flooring is made from the cork in oak tree bark. Cork floors are visually appealing and environmentally friendly. The flooring is great for those who stand on their feet for a long period of time. It also acts a noise reducer. This is a great choice for those who suffer from allergies as it is hypoallergenic. Cork flooring is a softer flooring and is therefore more likely to succumb to damage; however, measures can be taken to protect it. It’s also one of the more expensive types of flooring and must be imported.
The type of flooring in your home is a big decision. Floors takes a lot of abuse from family members, kids, pets, and more. It is also the first thing that guests see when they enter your home. It’s a large part of the décor.