FAQs
Hybrid Flooring
What is hybrid flooring? Hybrid flooring is comprised of multiple layers for superior performance, typically combining the qualities of laminate and vinyl.
Is hybrid flooring waterproof? Yes, most hybrid flooring options are 100% waterproof, making them excellent for kitchens, bathrooms, and laundry rooms.
What are the benefits of hybrid flooring? Hybrid flooring is waterproof, durable, easy to install, low-maintenance, stylish, and offers realistic wood-look finishes.
Can I install hybrid flooring myself? Yes, with its click-lock system hybrid flooring is often a suitable DIY project. However, professional installation is always recommended for the best results.
SPC & WPC Hybrid
What's the difference between SPC and WPC hybrid flooring?
- SPC (Stone Polymer Composite) has a rigid core of stone and plastic, making it very dimensionally stable.
- WPC (Wood Polymer Composite) uses a wood-plastic mix core, making it slightly softer underfoot.
What is 100% Polymer Hybrid? This refers to hybrid floors without a stone or wood-based core, instead utilizing 100% polymer materials for enhanced flexibility and water resistance.
Laminate Flooring
How durable is laminate flooring? Laminate flooring is scratch-resistant and tough, making it a good choice for areas with moderate traffic.
Is laminate flooring suitable for wet areas? No, traditional laminate flooring isn't ideal for bathrooms or kitchens. However, water-resistant variations are available, check with your supplier.
What's the difference between laminate and hybrid flooring? Hybrid flooring offers better water resistance, while laminate may be more affordable.
How do I maintain laminate flooring? Regular sweeping and mopping with a laminate-specific cleaner is all that's usually required.
Engineered Timber
What is the difference between engineered timber and solid timber? Engineered timber uses a thin layer of hardwood over a plywood core, solid timber is one piece of hardwood throughout. Engineered timber can be more dimensionally stable.
Is engineered timber prone to scratches? It is scratch-resistant but not scratch-proof. Take precautions like furniture pads and removing footwear to protect its surface.
Can I refinish engineered timber? Depending on the thickness of the hardwood top layer, some engineered timber floors can be sanded and refinished a limited number of times.
How does the price of engineered timber compare to other flooring? Engineered timber can be more affordable than solid hardwood, but more expensive than laminate or hybrid options.
Carpet
What carpet materials are the most durable? Nylon and wool carpets are known for their durability and resilience.
How do I choose the right carpet pile for my home? Consider traffic levels. High traffic areas need a dense, low pile carpet. Plush, high piles are perfect for bedrooms.
Is carpet hard to maintain? Regular vacuuming and professional cleaning when needed will keep your carpet looking its best.
How long does carpet usually last? With proper care, a quality carpet can last 10-15 years or more.
Vinyl (Linoleum)
What's the difference between vinyl and linoleum? Linoleum is a natural product made from linseed oil and other organic materials. Vinyl is synthetic, primarily PVC. Both are easy to maintain but linoleum is considered more eco-friendly.
How durable is vinyl flooring? It is very durable, waterproof, and easy to clean, making it suitable for almost any room in the house.
Is vinyl flooring a good choice for kitchens and bathrooms? Yes! Its waterproof qualities make vinyl ideal for high-moisture areas.
Does vinyl flooring require a lot of maintenance? No, vinyl is incredibly low-maintenance, only requiring regular sweeping and mopping.
Scratch Resistance
What do AC3 and AC4 ratings mean? Abrasion Criteria (AC) ratings measure scratch resistance on laminate and some hybrids. AC3 is for residential use, AC4 for commercial or high-traffic residential.
Which flooring types are most scratch-resistant?
Generally, SPC/WPC hybrids and vinyl/linoleum tend to be the most scratch-resistant due to their tough wear layers.
Acoustic Properties
Do hybrid floors reduce noise? Some hybrids have built-in acoustic underlays, others may require one for sound dampening. Check product specifications.
Which flooring is quietest underfoot? Carpet offers superior sound absorption. Engineered timber and thick hybrid/vinyl planks with underlay can also be quite quiet.
Floor Levelling
Does every flooring type require a perfectly level subfloor?
Yes, most do. Imperfections will telegraph through flooring over time. Check the specific product for levelling tolerances.
Is floor levelling expensive? Cost depends on the severity of subfloor issues and your floor area. A reputable installer can assess and quote.
Additional FAQs
Which flooring type offers the most realistic wood look? Hybrid flooring often excels in wood visuals, but high-quality engineered timber and vinyl planks can be extremely realistic as well.
How does hybrid flooring compare to laminate? Hybrid is generally more water-resistant and slightly more durable than laminate, but laminate may be a bit more affordable.
What are the key differences between engineered timber and vinyl planks? Engineered timber offers the genuine feel of wood but can be more prone to moisture damage. Vinyl planks are extremely water-resistant and generally less expensive but may not feel as authentic underfoot.
When is carpet a better choice than hard flooring options? Carpet is superior for soundproofing, warmth, and a softer feel – ideal for bedrooms and spaces where acoustics and comfort are priorities.
Is one flooring type definitively "better" than the others? The "best" flooring depends entirely on your specific needs. Consider your budget, the room's function, desired look, maintenance requirements, and your household's lifestyle.