The floor is supposed to serve us for many years, so we need to think very carefully about its choice. We can choose from a huge number of solutions with different properties and designs - from wooden planks to tiles and panels. We suggest what to pay attention to in order to enjoy a durable and timeless floor!
A wide range of choices
The floor not only significantly affects the visual aspect and atmosphere of the room. It must also meet the requirements of functionality and durability. Wood is valued for its beauty and the warmth it gives to interiors, but it needs proper care and is sensitive to changes in humidity or scratches. Tiles will work well in bathrooms, kitchens and hallways because of their water resistance and ease of cleaning, but unfortunately the coldness of ceramic flooring deters it from being laid in larger areas. The advantages of vinyl panels are waterproofing, resistance to damage and ease of daily maintenance and installation. What's more, despite being made of a synthetic material, they are indistinguishable from wood or stone floors - both in appearance and feel. So how do you find the perfect solution?
Vinyl floors are distinguished by their water resistance and durability
© Quick-Step
Tailored to your lifestyle
When looking for your dream floor, it's easy to get carried away by current trends. Inspiration is helpful, but before making a final decision, it's worth thinking about whether the current solutions will become boring too quickly and how they will look years later. If you like to walk barefoot around your apartment, a cold stone floor will not be a good choice. Unless you opt for underfloor heating. If, on the other hand, you have pets, you have to expect that, for example, a pine parquet floor can quickly lose its charm under the influence of your pets' claws.
If you have pets, choose scratch-resistant flooring
Photo by Darren Richardson © UNSPLASH
Essential accessories
When looking for flooring, don't forget about accessories. Skirting boards, for example, protect the lower parts of the walls from damage and dirt, mask cables and, in the case of laminate and wooden parquet, ensure that the floor is tight and works properly. Mouldings also have a significant impact on the aesthetic aspect of the interior and can serve a decorative function. Pay attention to the color of the moldings. The most universal are, of course, white, in a classic style, which will match most floors, as well as doors, windows or furniture. The problem may arise if you want to perfectly match the moldings to the color of the panels. Not every manufacturer has them in their assortment. It's better to verify the availability of suitable moldings even before you buy the floor.
Pay attention to whether the manufacturer offers moldings that match the color of the floor
Photo: iStock
Consider installation issues
Installation can also be a key factor in choosing the right flooring. A professional renovation team should have no trouble installing tile or wood planks, but what if the renovation is done on your own? In this case, an independent attempt at installation by a person without much experience may end in failure and a waste of material. In terms of ease of installation, vinyl flooring is a clear winner. The panels connect to each other without much effort thanks to snap-in systems. When installing them, you also do not need to remove the old subfloor.
Pay attention to the issue of installation
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Are you building or renovating a house? Or are you decorating an apartment? We have more flooring tips for you!
Compiled by:KATARZYNA SZOSTAK
