A number of years ago it was completely normal to have solid wood flooring throughout the entire house. As time went on and new substrates were developed, wood flooring became too expensive in comparison to these new materials. They also required much less maintenance than solid wood flooring. This has led to a much lower prevalence of this type of wood as flooring material. It would, however, not disappear completely. Thanks to the incredible aesthetic appeal of wood and the warmth it lends to a room, wood flooring has survived and is becoming a popular form of flooring yet again.
Solid wood floors afford you the opportunity to enjoy the true beauty of this type of flooring in a number of different wood species, such as oak, maple and walnut. It goes with just about any style you want to achieve and adds a special touch of class to any room. The better the quality of the wood, the less colour variation and less knotting, however, mixed grades are often requested so one can see the full character of the wood. With appropriate care and attention solid wood flooring can be expected to last many lifetimes.
As technology has developed, alternatives have been created that resemble the look of wooden floors very closely. Engineered wood uses either a thin strip of reel wood or a veneer on the top face to create the look of real wood, while the rest of the floor below is a very stable base that supports it. Using real wood as the facing, one cannot tell the difference. Laminate flooring, on the other hand, does not use real wood, but rather a high quality photograph of real wood set in a resin layer.
When it comes to the installation and maintenance of real wood flooring, one should not take shortcuts, as this might lead to problems and expenses later on. If you are unsure about how to go about it, then feel free to contact the leaders in all types of flooring – Top Carpets and Floors. With over two decades of experience, we have the necessary expertise to give you top-class advice and supply you with only the best quality materials.
Wooden Flooring Prices In SA
When considering the various wooden flooring types on the market you will find that there are a large number of options to choose from. Wooden flooring prices play a rather large role in the decision about which flooring to install in your home. While some real wooden floors are quite expensive, most imitation or replica floors look exactly like the real thing, but don’t cost nearly as much.
It is advised that you shop around and find the best wooden flooring prices available on the market before making a decision about which supplier and installation team to take on. Regardless of where you are based in South Africa, you will find that there are flooring companies offering wooden flooring solutions, right across the country.
Types of Wooden Floors Available on the South African Market
A closer look at the types of wooden floors available on the market will help you to decide which option is best suited to your needs, requirements and available budget. The following options should be considered when trying to make your decision:
- Laminate wooden floors – these particular floors are available in a variety of wooden finishes and are able to look identical to the real thing. In fact, most people cannot tell the difference between a real wooden floor and a laminate wooden floor. They are a durable and cost-effective option for those who want the look and feel of a real wooden floor, but cannot afford the price tag attached. Laminate wooden floors are easy to install and even easier to clean and maintain. When cared for properly, you can expect for a laminate floor to last for many years.
- Vinyl wooden floors – vinyl flooring is available in a variety of real wooden finishes too. These particular floors are designed to imitate the real thing and also be extremely easy to install. They are available in tiles and sheets which make for easy maintenance and repairs too. Much the same as laminate flooring, they are resistant to scratches, scuffs, stains and spills.
- Bamboo flooring – while these floors are made from a grass, they are designed to imitate real wooden floors. They provide a durable and tough surface that offer clarity and consistency. Bamboo floors are known to last from generation to generation if properly treated and cared for.
While there are various types of wooden floors available on the South African market, these three types are certainly amongst the most popular. Wooden flooring prices attached to these options are usually low cost, but this does not mean that you should expect anything less than absolute value for money, product quality and an end result you can be proud of.
One should always take the time to chat to the professionals in the field about the options available to them and the pros and cons of each. You will be delighted to find that many professionals in the market are more than willing to assist you in any way possible.
Whether you are looking to install vinyl flooring, laminate flooring, bamboo flooring or real wooden flooring, it is essential to do a little research prior to the fact. Make sure that you are aware of all the types of wooden floors available on the South African market, before deciding which one is best for you. Organise for a consultant from the various suppliers to visit your premises with ideas, options and catalogues to share with you. Also ensure that you are aware of the size of the floor area that needs to be floored, just so that you can receive an accurate quote. Take the time to compare wooden flooring prices with the options available on the market and make the right decision and invest for your home.
