Renovation Tips for Choosing a Cost Effective Flooring Solution
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Choosing a Cost-Effective Flooring Solution
Renovating or building on a budget can be tricky but fortunately it’s not impossible. It just means that you need to hunt for the bargains, do your research and find out ways to save some money. Let’s examine a few different types of flooring, and detail their advantages and disadvantages.
Softwood
One way to keep your flooring traditional is to choose a softwood timber. Softwood can still look as nice as hardwood once it is stained and finished, but for significantly less of a price tag. However, softwood is more likely to be scuffed or damaged with heavy foot traffic and it is generally less durable than hardwood.
Floating Wood
Floating wood is a type of engineered timber flooring that is comprised of several layers of hardwood glued together, and is usually installed via a click and lock system. It is a tough, durable type of floor that will stand the test of time and is also quite resistant to expanding and contracting with the weather – like all timbers tend to do. It is not as cheap as some flooring options – like vinyl, linoleum or laminate – but is provides a classic wood finish at an affordable price.
DIY Installation
Speaking of floating wood flooring, making the choice to take care of the installation yourself can save you on costs. Floating wood is considered perfect for this because it is usually installed using a simple, click and lock system. This adhesive-free option means less mess and a more straightforward approach that almost anyone can follow.
When it comes to DIY floor installation, it’s best to do your research first. Some products will be completely unsuitable for installing yourself while others may require some specialist skills or tools to professionally complete. If you go into your installation unprepared, you can make mistakes that end up costing you more that a professional job.
Shop Around for Materials
We’ve talked a bit about the types of material you might choose, but your research shouldn’t stop there. After all, your preferences for design, durability and installation can be just as important as the price tag. That’s why you should explore your options before settling on a provider. Just remember, like the floors themselves your floor specialists should combine quality and affordability.
Other Affordable Options
· Laminate – this durable, low-maintenance material is stain resistant and can be manufactured to resemble natural materials. Laminate is ideal for DIY jobs but it is also prone to gathering dirt and debris, which means you will need to invest is some area mats too!
· Vinyl – similar to laminate, what vinyl gains in its easy-to-clean and resistant quality, it loses in dirt collection. It can be difficult to repair and cheaper products may fade over time, proving that cheapest isn’t always best.
· Linoleum – this option is highly sturdy and can be hand-cut in a range of patterns to suit your interior design. Linoleum also has dirt-collecting qualities, though, and with the need to be re-sealed on a yearly basis, it’s worth weighing up its long-term costs compared to a more traditional, wood flooring option.
For More Information
For more information, please come visit our Auckland showroom, or give us a call! The Wooden Flooring Company can help you to find the best solution for your budget.