25 Jun, 2024What is the best timber floor option?
Engineered Verse Hybrid
When it comes to choosing the best flooring option for your home, there are a few key factors to consider: durability, aesthetics, maintenance, and cost.
At the end of the day however, this choice comes down to personal preference and your own circumstances.
When I say circumstances, I mean how you live every day.
When we renovated our home, our three boys were still quite young. We had three dogs who loved to race up and down the hallways with the boys like wild animals. I also enjoyed having real plants in the house, though I often overwatered them, causing leaks from the pots.
As much as I wanted real timber floors, for my situation the best choice for me was either engineered timber or hybrid vinyl.
Both options have their own unique advantages and disadvantages, so it’s important to get some professional advice from our Interior Design services before making a decision
Engineered
Engineered timber flooring is a popular choice for homeowners who want the look and feel of real wood without the high maintenance and cost. Engineered timber is made up of multiple layers of wood, with a top layer of real hardwood veneer. This gives it the appearance of solid wood flooring, but with added durability and stability. Engineered timber is also less prone to warping and shrinking than solid wood, making it a great choice for high-traffic areas or rooms with fluctuating temperatures.
In our new home we built “Torquay House” I opted for a beautiful Engineered timber floor called Oak Botany from Haywoods® One of my Favorite things about this flooring is how quiet and soft it feels underfoot. I’ve used laminate and hybrid flooring in the past, which were great options for that time in my life, but it’s such a pleasure to have engineered timber now. I no longer have to tiptoe down the hallway in the morning, worried about waking the boys. In winter, the floors remain warm and cozy, adding a beautiful, warm feel to the entire home.
To my surprise, these floors don’t scratch as I had read online. One of my biggest fears about getting real timber was that it would scratch easily. While they don’t scratch, they do dent. I’ve dropped pot lids a few times, leaving noticeable dents (which I tell myself add character, lol).
Hybrid
On the other hand, hybrid vinyl flooring is a newer option that combines the best features of vinyl and laminate flooring. Hybrid vinyl is made up of multiple layers, including a rigid core for added stability and a top layer of vinyl for a realistic wood or stone look. Hybrid vinyl is also waterproof and scratch-resistant, making it a great choice for kitchens, bathrooms, and other high-moisture areas. For all you plant lovers that accidently water too much and have a puddle on the floor for a bit too long, this is the option for you. Additionally, hybrid vinyl is easy to install and maintain, making it a cost-effective option for homeowners on a budget. Plus, there are some really amazing choices on the market that look fantastic.
So, which flooring option is the best choice for your home? Ultimately, it depends on your personal preferences and needs. If you value the natural beauty of real wood and want a durable and stable flooring option, engineered timber may be the best choice for you. However, if you’re looking for a costeffective, waterproof, and low-maintenance option, hybrid vinyl could be the way to go.
Both engineered timber and hybrid vinyl are great choices for flooring, each offering unique benefits. Consider your lifestyle, budget, and aesthetic preferences when making a decision, and don’t be afraid to consult with a flooring professional for advice. No matter which option you choose, investing in quality flooring will enhance the beauty and value of your home for years to come.
