FLOORING GUIDE
From aesthetics to the practicalities, there’s a lot to think about when choosing this aspect of your home’s fit-out, says Rebecca Foster
Your choice of floor covering helps set the tone for your property’s interiors, so it’s probably one of the first aspects to consider when it comes to kitting out your new home. While aesthetics are important, there’s a raft of practical considerations to take into account, too, ranging from how hardwearing the floor needs to be in different rooms of the house, to whether it works with the underfloor heating you’ve got your heart set on. Here, we’ve laid out the main options to help get you started.
TIMBER
Few materials can match the warmth and timeless appeal of wood, whether you’re in the market for a rustic, knotty look or a striking, geometric chevron design. A variety of species and hues are available, from the deep, chocolatey tones of walnut to the honey-coloured shades of the oak family. There’s plenty of choice when it comes to finishes, too, whether you want natural oiled, UV oiled or lacquered – the world is your oyster. “Clients can demand a style that exactly meets their brief,” says Ian Tomlinson, managing director at Chaunceys Timber Flooring. “Colours and grades can be specifically chosen to suit a home’s interior furniture or desired feel.”
Though solid timber solutions are available, engineered products are typically the go-to option for self builders as they offer greater dimensional stability when paired with underfloor heating (UFH) thanks to their robust, multi-layered construction. That being said, it’s worth bearing in mind that wood is a natural insulator, so you may need to run your UFH at a higher temperature than you would with a stone, concrete or porcelain tiles to ensure optimal performance.