Should you choose timber flooring, over synthetic materials?
The run down on timber
Ever walked a timber staircase in Europe and admired the tangible evidence of foot traffic, which for hundreds of years has patinaed and exposed a wear pattern right in the middle of each step?
I don’t think we will be walking into homes a hundred years from now to admire the hybrid or laminate flooring laid in a home today. But I could be wrong!
For years we have been taken down a path with a push for synthetic materials, the idea of everything needing to be “indestructible” and providing so called longevity.
The reality is, these “indestructible” products while absolutely serve their purpose in some situations, often once damaged or impacted, it often leads to the need to replace the entire floor, especially if the exact product is no longer stocked. They’re also more difficult to repair and you can forget about a full restoration, unlike a timber floor.
While synthetic materials absolutely have their place in the right circumstances, I feel like we’ve become a little lost along the way on the durability and longevity of natural materials, embracing the beauty of patina and how a product needs to perform in a multitude of ways.
Here are some facts on timber and some of the reasons I like to specify timber flooring and materials, over its synthetic counterparts, where suitable.
The beautiful oak timber stairs incorporated in one of our renovations.
Sustainability
A good quality timber floor, which has been installed correctly, has longevity due to its ability to be repaired and restored. Just one of the reasons it is a sustainable option for your home.
Once it has reached the end of its lifespan it can also be repurposed.
Always ensure you’re sourcing your timber from a sustainable source and always engage an experienced professional to ensure the correct installation. Where possible we would recommend you opt for a direct stick over a floating option.
Aesthetics
Seriously, does anything look more beautiful than timber flooring?
It also feels and sounds so nice underfoot. A tactility hard to beat.
Acoustic and thermal benefits
Timber has natural acoustic benefits when directly stuck down.
It also holds natural thermal benefits. Making for warmer floors in winter and better temperature control during those hot summer days.
Hypo allergenic
Timber wont trap dirt, pests and other fibers, making it easy to clean and a great option for allergy sufferers.
Can add value to your home
Due to its ability to be timeless, great quality and its longevity, timber will appeal to a broad market when it comes to the resale of your home.
Need help selecting the materials for your home?
Engaging a designer, whether it’s for advice and guidance or to help with the entire project, can help to take the confusion out of the entire process.
With years’ worth of experience and knowledge we can help you make the right decisions for you and your family.
Which in turn, ensures you’re selecting the correct finishes right from the beginning, saving you money, saving the environment from the “throw away society” mindset and makes for an all-over better outcome.
Feel free to reach out over on our contact page if youre unsure how we may be able to help you with your upcoming project.
