In Singapore, wooden floors are a prevalent choice among homeowners. Many homes in the country feature this type of flooring, making it a popular option. Because of the excellent properties it possesses, it is in high demand and continues to be popular among homeowners in Singapore.
If you’re considering renovating your home and are wondering if wooden flooring is the right choice for you, this article provides a comprehensive guide to the different types of wooden floors, their benefits, and how to care for them. We also cover the key factors to consider when selecting the perfect flooring material for your home.
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Benefits of Wooden Flooring
Wooden flooring has a number of benefits that make it a popular choice for homeowners. These benefits include:
Durability:
Wood floors, whether solid or engineered, are very long-lasting and resistant to the wear and tear that occurs in daily life. Natural wooden floors excel in retaining heat compared to man-made alternatives such as laminates, tiles, or stone flooring due to their natural composition.
As a result, walking on them is much more comfortable, particularly during the colder months of the year. Laminates are always cold to the touch; therefore, despite the fact that the initial economic benefits of laminate flooring are significant, factors such as these will ultimately always make wood flooring a more tempting solution.
Maintenance & Hygiene:
A wooden floor requires very little in the way of care and cleaning on a regular basis. Because wood floors are more resistant to liquid spills and filth, it is much simpler to clean them up by sweeping or wiping them away, in contrast to the situation that would arise if the same thing were to occur in a carpeted area.
When it comes to hygiene, wooden floors are considerably superior to carpeting. Because they do not provide a suitable habitat for parasites like fleas, dust mites, ticks, or spores that produce allergens, wood floors are particularly advantageous for people who own pets and suffer from allergies. Due to the ease with which a wooden floor can be cleaned, undesirable odours that may have been left behind by animals or liquids that may have been spilt will no longer be a problem.
Variety:
You are no longer required to adhere to the conventional look and tone of oak planks when installing a wooden floor because there is such a broad choice of styles and colours available for wood floors. You are likely to discover a wood finish that is compatible with any home decor, from dark, rich woods that lend an air of opulence and sophistication to your home to lighter, more contemporary styles of greys and vanilla. There are a wide variety of wood finishes available to choose from.
Adds Value to Your Home:
Homeowners often opt for wooden flooring due to its attractive natural appearance, durability and potential to boost a home’s value. It imparts a touch of elegance and warmth to a space, making it appear larger and more inviting. Additionally, wood floors are a good financial investment as they can last a long time with minimal maintenance.
They can also improve the acoustics of a room by reducing hollow sounds and vibrations. When it comes to selling a home, wood flooring can increase the sale price and make the home more appealing to potential buyers.
Long-Lasting & Cost-Effective:
Wooden floors are not only long-lasting but also simple to clean and maintain, and they improve indoor air quality. However, you are aware that they might be pricey, correct? It’s possible that purchasing wood floors will be a more expensive alternative for you, depending on the other flooring options you’re thinking about.
Consider the implications for the long term. Wood floors are less prone to become damage and are also much simpler to clean. Because of this, you will spend less money throughout the years on repairs and cleaning. In addition, given their exceptional resistance to wear and tear, flooring made of wood can survive for many generations. Because of their exceptional durability, they are an economical choice for floor covering. It could initially cost you more, but in the long run, it will save you money.
Different Types of Wooden Floors
Wood flooring comes in many different varieties, each with its own set of benefits. Some of the most popular types of wood flooring include:
Laminate Flooring:
Are you looking for a cost-effective flooring option that mimics the look of wood but is low maintenance? Laminate flooring could be the ideal solution for you. It is a faux wood flooring that is made from compressed fibres or chips, layered with a printed image of wood, and protected with a laminated finish.
Laminate flooring is known for its durability and resistance to water spills, oil and decay. This makes it a great option for frequently used and cleaned areas. Additionally, the protective laminated finish allows for easy cleaning with mild cleaning solutions.
However, it is important to note that not all laminate flooring is created equal. Cheap manufacturers may have poor quality control, resulting in blurred designs and a dingy appearance. Additionally, even the highest quality laminate flooring cannot match the natural beauty of real wood. When considering laminate flooring, it’s important to keep in mind that it is faux wood and will not have the same standard as natural wood.
Solid Wood Flooring:
Solid wood flooring is a traditional and popular choice for wood flooring in Singapore. It is made from a single slab of solid wood rather than layered pieces like engineered wood flooring. The hardiness of solid wood floors depends on the species of wood used.
Hickory and Oak are popular choices known for their strength and durability, while Teak is highly prized for its exotic look and resistance to scratches. Solid wood flooring can be varnished or unvarnished and can be sanded down to restore its colour, flatness, and finish.
However, solid wood flooring does come with its own set of maintenance challenges. Prolonged exposure to moisture can lead to warping and decay of it, while dry climates can cause shrinkage. Solid wood flooring should be installed in areas with moderate humidity levels to ensure optimal performance.
It is best to install this type of flooring in rooms where you can show it off, such as dens, living rooms, and bedrooms. Avoid installing it in high-moisture areas like bathrooms, decks, and kitchens.
Engineered Wood Flooring:
If you’re looking for a flooring option that offers a more sophisticated finish than laminate but is still relatively affordable, engineered wood flooring may be the perfect choice for you. It is made from layers of natural wood, typically from hardwood trees that are known for their durability and ability to withstand wear and tear.
One of the main benefits of engineered wood flooring is its ease of installation. It comes with a click-and-lock fitting, eliminating the need for adhesives. Its layered construction also makes it more durable, water-resistant, and hardy than solid wood flooring. The layers prevent warping over time, ensuring your flooring will last for decades with proper maintenance.
It’s worth noting, however, that even engineered wood flooring can be susceptible to damage. Low-quality planks can create loose air pockets that can cause warping with regular use, while improper installation can lead to cracks that allow water to seep through.
Bamboo Flooring:
Bamboo flooring is an eco-friendly alternative to wood flooring that offers a lighter and finer option than hardwood. It is made from hollow bamboo stalks that are split and processed similarly to wood. Bamboo flooring is slightly more water-resistant and can be varnished in darker colours. It is also more sustainable as bamboo takes a much shorter time to mature than oak or maple trees.
However, be sure to choose natural bamboo, as processed bamboo can contain toxic chemicals and become weaker during the treatment process. Avoid using bamboo flooring in high-moisture areas, and make sure to avoid dyes and wood stains that can start the decay of bamboo flooring.
Reclaimed Wood Flooring:
Reclaimed wood flooring is a sustainable and luxurious option for those looking for a vintage feel in their home. This type of flooring is made from wood that has stood up for years and is either refurbished or left in its original state. It can be made from old solid wood or engineered wood that has aged.
Homeowners who are lucky enough to find reclaimed wood flooring already in their homes may be delighted. But even if you don’t have it already, you can still buy reclaimed wood from older properties that have removed the wooden planks or been demolished.
When considering reclaimed wood floor, it’s important to inspect the planks for any damage or wear. Some planks may have been covered by carpet or laminate and have sustained damage from adhesives. Additionally, it’s important to check for mould spots, rot and any signs of woodworms or termites.
Reclaimed wood floor is a unique and limited option. It gives a rustic and vintage feel to any room, and it is durable and can provide a sense of refinement.
Parquet Flooring:
Parquet flooring in Singapore is a popular option for those looking for unique geometric patterned wood flooring. It is characterised by its zigzag or weave placement and is made up of smaller slabs of wood arranged to create herringbone or intricate designs.
Installing parquet wood flooring can be tricky as each wooden strip must be secured individually. However, the end result is a unique and stunning design that is perfect for high-traffic areas such as living rooms or parlours.
It’s important to keep in mind that, due to its pattern, improperly installed parquet flooring is more prone to water damage, mould, and pests. Therefore, it is recommended to install parquet flooring in rooms that have relatively low moisture but high traffic. Avoid installing parquet flooring in areas such as bathrooms, laundry rooms, and pet rooms, as these rooms are more prone to frequent spills.
Tips on How to Clean and Maintain Wood Flooring
Want to keep your wood flooring looking as beautiful as the day it was installed? Follow these guidelines for proper cleaning and maintenance to keep your floors in tip-top shape:
Regular Cleaning:
Maintain the cleanliness of your wood floor by regularly sweeping, vacuuming, and cleaning to remove dirt and particles, which can cause scratches and stains. Use a wood-specific cleaner occasionally and ensure that the floors are always dry to keep your floors looking their best.
Suitable Cleaners:
Opt for floor cleaners specifically designed for wooden surfaces to keep your floors looking new for longer. These cleaners have the ability to effectively clean and sanitise the surface without causing damage to the wood.
Furniture Leg Protectors:
To safeguard your hardwood flooring from scratches and scrapes, install protectors on the legs of your furniture. This is particularly crucial for items that get moved around frequently, like chairs.
Spill Cleanup:
In the event that there is a spill, clean it up as soon as possible using a dry or only slightly damp cloth. Because wood expands and contracts when it is in contact with liquids for extended periods of time, the best approach to prevent moisture damage to your flooring is to dry them as quickly as possible.
Temperature Control:
Quick expansion and contraction of wood planks can be caused by changes in indoor temperature, which can result in cracks that are permanent in nature. To avoid these costly repairs, try to maintain a consistent indoor temperature.
Refinishing:
To maintain the appearance of your wood floors, they may need to be refinished or resealed every 3-5 years. A fresh coat of finish acts as a barrier against various elements that can cause harm to your wooden floors.
By following these steps, you can safeguard the wood and preserve its aesthetic appeal for an extended period.
Selecting the Best Wooden Floor Types
Wood floors can impart a sense of elegance to any home, but choosing the right type of wooden flooring for your house is crucial to getting the most value for your money.
It’s important to keep in mind that wood and water are not compatible; this can cause damage to your flooring. Various types of wooden floor options are available to enhance your room’s appearance. Regular maintenance can also help to prolong the lifespan of your wooden floors and give them a polished look that will impress any visitor.
