The Best Option You Have in Solid Wood Flooring
For many, having wood flooring is the ultimate dream. There's something special about the natural elegance, warmth, and comfort it brings, not to mention the connection to nature that makes it a preferred choice for centuries.
If you also wish to install solid wood flooring, you may wonder which type is best for your space. Different wood species indeed offer unique characteristics and aesthetics. To help you make the right decision, we've put together a few simple steps to guide you in choosing the perfect wood flooring for your home.
Factors to Consider in Selecting the Ideal Solid Wood Flooring
Timber flooring has everything a homeowner can expect and dream of, but to achieve that dreamy look, a few efforts must also be put in from your side. Let's see where all you need to put effort in:
Choose Species
A common misconception is that solid wood flooring automatically guarantees the best quality. While solid wood is undeniably premium, not all wood species give you the same level of elegance. This is because different types of wood vary in appearance, hardness, and cost.
Here are some of the most popular wood species in Australia and how they impact your space:
- Spotted Gum: A premium Australian hardwood with warm brown tones and excellent durability. Ideal for high-traffic areas.
- Blackbutt: Known for its light, creamy hues, blackbutt is a great option for contemporary interiors.
- Jarrah: A deep reddish-brown hardwood that brings richness and warmth to a space.
- Tasmanian Oak: A versatile and cost-effective choice with a lighter shade that complements modern and traditional homes.
- European Oak: Offers a classic, timeless look with a wide range of finishes, making it one of the most popular choices globally.
Prefinished vs. Raw Wood – Which One is Right for You?
Hardwood floors are made from hardwood planks harvested from deciduous trees such as oak, maple, cherry, or walnut. Each plank is cut from a single piece of wood, giving it a unique, authentic feel built to last. When choosing a wood floor, you have two options: prefinished and raw (unfinished) wood. Let's dive into the key differences to help you decide which option works best for your space.
- Prefinished Wood: Comes factory-coated with a protective finish, making it ready for installation with minimal hassle. It's convenient and saves time.
- Raw (Unfinished) Wood: Allows for custom staining and finishing after installation, giving you complete control over the final look. However, it requires more effort and time.
Prefinished wood is an excellent choice for a quick and hassle-free installation. But if you want a custom finish tailored to your home's aesthetics, raw wood might be worth the extra effort.
Surface Finish & Coating – Protection & Aesthetics
The finish you choose not only affects the appearance of your flooring but also impacts its durability. Here are the most common finishes:
- Matte Finish: Gives a natural, soft look while minimising the appearance of scratches.
- Satin Finish: Offers a balance between gloss and durability, making it a popular choice.
- Glossy Finish: Reflects more light, creating a luxurious effect, but may show scratches more easily.
Plank Thickness – Why It Matters
The thickness of your solid wood flooring determines its durability and ability to withstand wear over time. Common thickness options include:
- 12mm – 14mm: Suitable for light residential use.
- 18mm – 22mm: Ideal for long-term durability and refinishing over time.
Thicker planks are generally better for high-traffic areas and offer better sound insulation. If you're investing in solid wood flooring, opting for thicker planks ensures a more durable and long-lasting floor.
Bottom Line: The class and magic that solid wood has is hard to match with any alternative flooring.
Especially after considering the above information, you will be able to find a flooring you will cherish every day.
So, start your journey of finding the best flooring option and contact our experts to offer you quality flooring and help with installation.
What's more, we offer? Apart from solid wood, we offer trendy carpet, engineered, and Hybrid Flooring in Adelaide.