Wood flooring is characterised by its thickness, width, and length. The debate between thin and thick wood flooring primarily concerns the thickness of the boards, which ranges from 8mm to 22mm. Thin wood flooring is categorised as those up to and including 12mm, while thick wood flooring refers to boards that are 13mm or thicker. When asked which is ‘best’, we often explain to our customers that it’s not about quality but suitability to their current and future needs. Thin wood flooring may be more appropriate for some projects, while thick wood flooring suits others. Below, we outline the main differences between the two.
Initial Cost
Logically, the more wood used, the higher the cost. For those on a tight budget, thin wood flooring is more economical. Wood flooring measuring 8mm to 12mm can be found for as little as £30 per square metre, while thicker options can easily exceed £60 per square metre. In terms of fitting costs, the choice between thin and thick boards doesn’t make a difference; it’s the installation method (click, glue, nail, etc.) and the area to be covered that impact cost.
Underfloor Heating Compatibility
If you’re considering underfloor heating, the thickness of your wood flooring is a key consideration. To ensure effective heat transfer, only engineered wood flooring is suitable, and it should not exceed 15mm in thickness, with a wear layer no thicker than 4mm, typically referred to as 15/4mm.
Potential Lifespan
The potential lifespan of wood flooring is significantly influenced by its ability to be sanded. Sanding removes approximately 1mm of the top layer, revealing a fresh, unmarked surface beneath. This process is particularly useful for eliminating wear and tear signs like stains and scratches. Therefore, thicker boards, which allow for more sanding cycles, are preferable in commercial settings where the flooring will undergo heavy use.
Pre-existing Flooring
The thickness of your existing flooring is another important consideration. Choosing new flooring of the same thickness ensures that door clearances remain unchanged, avoiding the need for extensive modifications. If you opt for thicker boards, be prepared for additional costs due to necessary alterations like adjusting skirting boards and clearance gaps.
Subfloor Condition
We always recommend a smooth subfloor for any flooring project. If this isn’t feasible, thicker wood flooring is more forgiving, ensuring a comfortable underfoot experience. In such cases, 16mm boards are recommended, or 14mm-15mm boards with at least a 3mm thick underlay. Thin wood flooring, such as 8mm to 12mm boards, can feel uncomfortable on anything less than a perfect subfloor.
What Does Wood and Beyond Recommend?
Based on over 15 years of experience providing wood flooring to homeowners and interior designers, we believe that 14mm and 15mm wood flooring offers the best compromise among the factors discussed. These thicknesses are cost-effective, compatible with underfloor heating, can be sanded and restained multiple times, and can accommodate a thicker underlay if necessary.
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FAQ
What are the main factors to consider when choosing between thin and thick wood flooring?
The main factors include the initial cost, compatibility with underfloor heating, the potential lifespan (which involves the ability to sand and rejuvenate the flooring), the thickness of the pre-existing flooring to ensure door clearances, and the condition of the subfloor. The choice between thin and thick wood flooring depends on the specific requirements and constraints of your project.
How does the thickness of wood flooring affect its cost?
Generally, thicker wood flooring, which uses more material, is more expensive. Thin wood flooring, ranging from 8mm to 12mm, can be more budget-friendly, with prices starting from around £30 per square metre. Thicker options may exceed £60 per square metre. The fitting costs, however, are influenced more by the installation method and area size than by the thickness of the boards.
Is there a preferred wood flooring thickness for underfloor heating?
For underfloor heating systems, engineered wood flooring that does not exceed 15mm in thickness is recommended, with a wear layer no thicker than 4mm. This specification ensures effective heat transfer through the flooring.
Can the lifespan of wood flooring be extended through sanding?
Yes, sanding can significantly extend the lifespan of wood flooring by removing approximately 1mm of the top layer to reveal a fresh surface. Thicker boards allow for more sanding cycles, making them more suitable for areas with heavy use or where long-term durability is a priority.
What does Wood and Beyond recommend based on their experience?
Drawing on over 15 years of experience, Wood and Beyond recommends 14mm and 15mm thick wood flooring as an optimal choice for most projects. These thicknesses strike a balance between cost-efficiency, compatibility with underfloor heating, the ability for multiple sanding and restaining cycles, and the option to use a thicker underlay if needed.