The durability of hardwood flooring

A real wood floor can bring a timeless elegance and beauty to your room, but it can also be very expensive. Today, there are more affordable options that are pleasing to the eye and the pocket.

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New technologies are enabling many companies to create quality products that look uniquely like real wood.

Wood effect

Wood-look vinyl planks are available in loads of colours and are very pleasing to the eye. They are laid on adhesive and quick and easy to install.

Laminate

Laminate flooring is extremely durable and has a long lifespan. It is waterproof and has an anti-scratch coating. It comes in a variety of colours and finishes and is tough and versatile.

Linoleum

Linoleum flooring has been around since the 1800s and takes its name from one of the products it is produced from, linseed oil. It is highly sustainable and comes in a multitude of colours and patterns.

Plywood

Painting your existing plywood floors is a quick and cheap way to cover them, or you can purchase affordable plywood planks. Let them acclimatise for a few days before laying them. You can then paint them or leave them for a rougher-looking finish. If you’re looking for an alternative Laminate Wood Flooring, try a site like irwintiles.ie/index.php/wooden-flooring.html.

Tiles

Floor tiles are very popular. They are versatile and come in various sizes. There are wood effect tiles with knots and realistic wood grain and coloured or patterned tiles. They are fitted with adhesive and grout and have a long lifespan.

Cork

Cork flooring is attractive, sustainable, water-resistant and soundproof, and it is becoming more popular with home owners. Cork is a renewable resource and is ideal for people with allergies. It is warm to walk on and has a soft, cushioned feel. It is fire-resistant and does not give off any toxic gases on combustion. Cork tiles are fitted by an adhesive and then coated with varnish.

Bamboo

Natural Bamboo is becoming very popular. It adds character to a room and can be sanded down and refinished for refreshing or repairing. It is available in several colours but should be installed by a professional.

Porcelain

Porcelain tiles are remarkably resilient and are the natural choice of ceramic for a floor with a busy throughput. They are available in many colours and finishes, including wood effect.