Timber flooring is most preferred by people when it comes to choosing the type of flooring during construction for renovation, due to its environmental profile, durability, and restorability. Also known as wood flooring or hardwood flooring in the market, timber flooring is a product of nature. It is any product which is made up of timber and has been developed to be used as a flooring material either constructional or exquisite. It provides a warm and easy feeling when walked on.
Also, it adds to the beauty of the room, delivering a naturally warm, attractive atmosphere. Simultaneously, timber flooring also creates a relaxing comfortable environment. This kind of flooring is generally adopted in hilly areas having high moisture content and easy availability of wood.
Three Different Types of Timber Flooring Are Available to Choose From.
Hardwood- Solid hardwoods are ideal to be used as timber flooring. They last for longer, audible, and can withstand harsh wear and tear. Also, they are fire-resistant. Hardwood is derived from deciduous trees like mahogany, walnut, maple, teak, and oak. Hardwood is expensive than softwood due to its less availability.
Softwood- Availability of softwoods all through the year makes them a more affordable option for timber flooring. Softwood comes from evergreen trees like pine, spruce, cedar, larch, and fir. Softwoods are less fire resistant and less durable than hardwoods.
Engineered Wood- Apart from the availability of softwoods and hardwoods as options, we also have engineered wood flooring as another option. In this case several ply or high-density fireboard layers are bonded to create a core board which forms the inner part. Then a solid wooden top layer, usually manufactured from walnut, oak, and larch is provided to it.
Various factors like the budget, relative humidity, temperature fluctuations, personal taste and preference should be considered before deciding upon which type of timber flooring is to be finalized.
An Expensive Timber Flooring Provides Various Advantages.
High Sustainability-Besides being easily maintainable, timber floors are tougher and more durable and longer lasting than other flooring products. They are impervious to frost, corrosion, heat, and pollution. Carpeted floors trap dirt and dust and have a short lifespan whereas, timber floors are easy to be keep clean and healthy. A solid hardwood timber floor can last up to hundred years or even more unlike a carpeted floor which needs to be changed after every 10 to 15 years of usage.
Easy Maintenance- People prefer timber flooring more than anything else because of its easy preservation and conservation. All one needs to do to is clean a timber floor to use an anti-static mop to wipe away dirt and dust and to provide a natural, clean look to the floor. However, wet and steam mop should be avoided to keep the appearance of the floor’s surface coating alright. Also, felt pads on furniture feet should be used to ensure the longevity of the floor.
Environment Friendly- A timber floor is energy efficient and consumes less energy during production. Also, it is easily repairable when damaged. In addition to that, wooden windows are resistant to cold bridging.
Stores Carbon for Life- By absorbing carbon dioxide emitted from the atmosphere, forests and wood products play a major role in controlling climate change. By sequestering carbon dioxide and lowering the carbon dioxide content in the air, woods help in reducing the damage caused by global warming.
Versatility- Timber floors can be used accordingly to provide both traditional and modern home décor. Today, engineered timber is the most preferred flooring material due to its versatility. Irrespective of the style, be it rustic, urban, industrial, chic, or modern, a wide range of color is made available to the customer.
Conclusion
Oil modified urethane and water-based polyurethane are the two most popular categories preferred to provide a modern finish to the timber floor. To maintain the timber flooring and ensure its longevity, it should be vacuumed, and swept with damp mopped at regular intervals. Use of oil and soaps should be avoided while cleaning the floor.