Wood flooring is featured in many residential properties as well as in commercial properties across the UK. In this guide to wood flooring, we will focus on the important aspects you, as a property owner should pay attention to.
Earlier we used the phrase ‘pay attention’ because pay more you will if you choose the wrong type of wood floor for your property. Solid floors are made from complete 100% wood, whereas engineered floors are made from Plywood, MDF and wood. Each has type has its pros and cons and your decision should be based around the particular features of each type.
Solid Floors – Because each plank of solid wood flooring is made from complete wood, you will be able to sand and stain the wood up to 7 times, thereby significantly extending its longevity (and saving you spending more).
Engineered Floors – Because of their construction, engineered wood flooring react better to damp and moist conditions. Properties that are located next to a water source (river, stream and so on) or areas which experience damp conditions (the kitchen for example) are more suitable for engineered flooring, the engineered floors are also suitable to be placed over under floor heating, please note we recommend to use the 14mm or the 15mm thick ones.
Under The Housing Act 2004 exposure to unusually loud or continuous noise inside a dwelling or within its curtilage is deemed to be a threat to the physical and mental health of the occupants. As a property owner fitting wood flooring, especially in a block of flats, you should be aware of means to reduce noise and improve insulation.
Quality underlay – An underlay is an essential part of fitting flooring as it dramatically improves the performance of the floor. You will do well to source acoustic barrier underlay which has insulation properties providing noise reduction and footsteps reduction of up to 22db. Each underlay will feature amongst its properties two important features, walking noise reduction (in percentage) and impact noise insulation in dB (Decibel). The thickness and materials will make the underlay better or worse in terms of insulation.
The 3rd consideration as a property owner is the finish of the wood. Again, the wrong finish could end up costing you more money pretty soon. Each plank of wood is covered in a thin layer referred to as wood flooring finish or coating. In most properties, it has only a decorative side, deciding between matt, glossy or any other look, however as a property owner durability should be a top consideration. Here are some of the options most popular with property developers and owners:
Lacquer Finish – A shine finish, durable, cost effective and requires low maintenance. Lacquer is considered extremely durable because it sits on the wood’s surface.
Oil Finish – Matt finish, less durable compared to lacquer, however oil is easier to repair. Oil finish will quickly sink into the wood, therefore providing less durability compared to lacquer finish.
UV Oil Finish – Considered the best compromise between the first two, the finish presents a light gloss look and all the durability of the lacquered finished.
Enjoy your new floor. Leave your comments below and let us know if you have any questions.
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