What will it cost?
SOLID WOOD FLOORING
Jane Crittenden investigates what it costs to have this style of flooring installed
This rustic grade oak flooring achieves its chocolate brown colour with a wood stain and lacquer, while the handscraped surface adds to the worn and aged feel. Planks are supplied in varied lengths with bevelled edges and guaranteed for 100 years. York Antique Oak, from £99 per m2 , Woodpecker Flooring
Good Home natural solid pine flooring comes with a tongue and groove fitting and bevelled edge. Each plank is 2,000mm (L) x 120mm (W) x 20mm (D). £26 per 0.96m2 pack, B&Q
The beauty of a solid wood floor is its authenticity and natural character, complete with unique grain patterns and tone variations. Wood planks are also low carbon (when sourced from sustainablymanaged forests), extremely durable and can be repeatedly sanded, stained or oiled to last for decades. With that kind of longevity, they can be a value-for-money investment – but what do you need to budget for your project and what factors will influence the price?
Wood species
The exact timber you choose will have a major impact on flooring costs. At the low end of the market, pine (£26 per m2 at B&Q) is the least hardwearing. It can be painted or stained, but will show scratches and markings more easily than other species; although some would say this gives it a patina over time that becomes part of its appeal.