Hardwood Flooring for Big Living Spaces

If you’re looking for flooring that needs to cover a large area, then hardwood flooring may be the best solution. The warmth and colours that real wood flooring can offer allow you to maximise the space, whilst keeping it homely; something that is tricky to do with large rooms.

Available in modern styles as well as more traditional looks, hardwood flooring suits any existing decor and can be softened with furnishings such as rugs, cushions and long drapes. If you’re looking to redecorate the room from scratch, then contrasting textures such as velvet, and colours that complement the wood grain (such as green, grey, white and beige), will create a luxurious, yet practical space.

Zone Out Open Space Areas with Vinyl Tiles

Do you need your living room for different functions? Maybe your living room acts as an office, cinema and dining room? If you have dedicated areas for each, then why not consider creating zones in your living room specific to these areas?

Luxury Vinyl Tiles (LVT) are easy to lay, and are available in a whole host of colours, styles and sizes - perfect for giving the illusion of additional space where you need it most. By using this flooring to provide boundaries, you feel organised and others within the home will use the living room spaces as they’re intended.

Maximise Light in Apartments with Laminate

Laminate flooring is such a versatile flooring that it’s easy to see why it’s one of the most popular choices. For smaller spaces or apartments where light is at a premium, choose lighter flooring and accessories to help create a calming area that also makes the space feel bigger and brighter.

Laminate is ideal because it is available in many different thicknesses and effects such as herringbone, plain and even stone - so you’re sure to be able to create the effect you’ve always wanted.

Easy Vinyl Roll for Family Homes

If your home is constantly on the go, then having a key room of the home disrupted for any length of time may be your worst nightmare. Whether you have kids (big or small), furry, feathered and four-legged friends running around, or just a constant stream of feet in and out of the home, there’s a solution that could give your flooring the perfect makeover with limited downtime.

Vinyl roll is a popular flooring choice for busy homes. With its under-foot comfort and stylish designs, it’s not only easy to install but maintenance is super easy. No more worries about muddy paws or sticky hands making the floor a germ-ridden area: simple clean and go. Plus, there’s lots of equipment online to keep your vinyl sparkling.

Engineered Wood Floors Country Cottage Feel

There’s a certain something about country cottages that makes you feel as though you’ve travelled back hundreds of years. Whether you’re in a recently built home or have your very own chocolate-box cottage, engineered wood flooring is a great way to take your home back in time.

From brushed oak to deep grain effect planks, this gorgeous flooring inspires cosy nights in front of the fire, hot drinks and a good movie, so whatever your setting, you’ll be in maximum bliss.

Herringbone Flooring For Grandeur Town Houses

Herringbone flooring is available in all types of flooring materials, from laminate to vinyl, but if you’re wanting a feeling of grandeur then there’s nothing like real wood flooring in a beautiful herringbone effect.

Whether you choose lacquered or unfinished, the quality of this flooring always creates a luxury feel when it comes to your living room. Adorn with gorgeous furniture such as a big coffee table, large sofa and dark painted walls, for true elegance and luxury.

Hardwearing LVT for High Traffic Living Rooms

Let’s be honest: most people use their living rooms to relax in, and depending on its location, you can often find that the amount of footfall going through night and day can wear your flooring down fast.

One solution is to invest in hardwearing floorings such as Luxury Vinyl Tiles. These are becoming an increasingly popular way to pave your indoor space, thanks to their durability, range of styles and easy installation.

Choose from click or glue-down tiles, which when formed, look like perfectly laid hardwood and provide the perfect solution when it comes to high-traffic living spaces.

So whether your living room is big or small, light or dark, busy or quiet, here are some living room floor ideas to help make your space one of relaxation, productivity and maximum comfort.

The post Living Room Floor Ideas For Any Home appeared first on Factory Direct Flooring.

We’re delighted to announce that we are now partnered with PayPal Pay in 3 to give you even more flexibility when paying for your brand new flooring. 

Paypal Pay in 3 - is the new, convenient and fast way to buy your flooring online, with the additional option to spread the total cost across three payments.

Whether you’re after stunning herringbone or the latest vinyl - you can now select “Pay in 3” at the checkout and choose to pay in three equal monthly instalments, getting that new flooring in place and looking incredible, without paying the full cost up front. 

Paypal Pay in 3 payments are all interest free, with no set up fees or charges. You’ll get an approval decision in seconds and enjoy the same Buyer Protection that you already get using PayPal. 

Our incredible offers will still apply to your purchase and you’ll continue to benefit from our flexible delivery options, giving you control of when your flooring arrives, and great customer service. 

So there’s never been a better time to move that flooring you want from your wishlist to your basket. All part of our promise to make your experience with Factory Direct Flooring as smooth and flexible as possible. 

The post It’s now even easier to get the flooring you want. appeared first on Factory Direct Flooring.

Wood effect tiles for that ‘In the Wild’ experience

Being at one with nature is one of life’s joys and with an increase in people looking to recreate the feeling of being outside, you can easily create this bathroom style by simply looking into wood effect tiles. These moisture-tight and beautiful wood effect LVT tiles, give the appearance of being made of real wood, without the risk of warping or swelling as you get with real wood.

White flooring for a serene feel

Bathrooms are for relaxing, so what better way to create a calming atmosphere than with beautiful white tiles. Flooring is just as important to keep fresh and clean as any other part of the bathroom, and when they are sparkling, the feeling a beautiful white bathroom can provide is like no other.

Create tile patterns for a ‘wow’ factor

For a modern bathroom style, there’s no better way to create a ‘wow’ factor than with tiles that are colourful, shaped or laid in beautiful patterns. This is easy enough to do with different styles of tiles, but why not consider giving the illusion of laid tiles by choosing patterned vinyl flooring that is not only funky but also cushioned underfoot for a more luxurious feel.

You can have marble-style, without the cost

If budgets aren’t allowing you to go grandeur, then fake it with faux-tiles that no one would ever know isn’t the real thing. Marble is one of the most beautiful materials to include in the home, but not many of us can go for the real thing in our bathrooms. Fortunately, there are different styles of marble-effect flooring tiles and vinyl that will help you find the perfect mock-marble look.

Explore vinyl tiles for easy installation

Vinyl floor tiles open up so many options for your home renovations, including the bathroom. Their waterproof components make them a fantastic choice for bathrooms big and small and the different styles you can get are second to none. From wood grain effect to herringbone, you don’t have to opt for porcelain or ceramic floor tiles to achieve the bathroom of your dreams.

For big bathrooms choose big tiles

If you’re worried about the vastness of flooring you have in your bathroom then you may want to consider choosing big tiles. There are so many options, from slate to porcelain if you want a natural effect, or consider having vinyl flooring which comes in a roll and can cover the surface area in one go - easy!

There are so many options to take the stress out of changing up the style of your bathroom. By simply finding the right floor to give your room a make-over, you’ll have a room that looks the part as well as is functional.

The post 6 Bathroom Floor Tile Ideas for an Easy Transformation appeared first on Factory Direct Flooring.

Choose solid wood for major style points

Solid wood flooring is available in many different shades and finishes that it is suitable for all homes, regardless of the size and space you have. For a country feel, oak brushed wood flooring fits the bill due to the traditional look it offers, but for a more modern style golden birch wood flooring can offer a fresh and stunning contrast against dark walls and gold accessories.

Or create the same for engineered wood flooring

If solid wood flooring isn’t quite for you but you want the same effect, engineered hardwood flooring is a great alternative. More water resistant, it’s perfect for busy homes who may be in and out in all weathers all day or the plan is to have a muddy boot area or somewhere to dry the pets off after a long hike, engineered flooring offers the best solution whilst giving the style that’s sought after.

Fake the look with LVT

Want colour, patterns, or just an easy installation? Luxury vinyl tiles are the flooring to tick all these boxes. Waterproof, durable and gorgeous, you’re spoilt for choice with what you can opt for but one thing is for certain, what you’ll pick will be perfect. Whether it’s click vinyl tiles or glue down tiles, your hallway will have a stunning floor in no time.

Step into bright and bold colour

Bright colours within the home are in vogue, so why not get on the style with some bright and bold flooring that makes a statement entrance into your own home. There’s so much to choose from in terms of colours and patterns, why not consider a checkerboard effect vinyl or mosaic style faux tile to set it off.

Slate-style tiles for busy households

Tiles are a great flooring choice for hallways but not everyone wants the coldness they can bring, especially in winter. If you’re looking for a tiled look but with a little more luxury, then consider slate effect tiles that bring all of the style with none of the chill underfoot. Perfect for heavy footfall, they can withstand high traffic areas of the home but with an extra level of comfort. In an abundance of slate shades including grey, black and copper you have all of the choice you’d need.

Pick a pattern for Victorian-era chic

Whether you live in a beautiful terraced townhouse or have moved into a newer home, you can replicate the look of the much sought after hallway style flooring, often made up of small tiles intricately laid in beautiful patterns to create a stunning effect running from the front door to the next room. 

Mock marble for a grand entrance

Marble is the ultimate in grandeur, teamed with chandeliers and spiral staircases, it’s the thing only seen in the homes of the rich and famous. The good thing is, you don’t have to be a world class movie star or stadium singer to get the same effect. Mock marble is available in several different flooring styles, including marble style vinyl and tiles.

Create the illusion of space by choosing one colour

Monochrome decor can look beautiful in any room of the home. Mostly a decor used in kitchens, it’s perfect for hallways alike, especially those which are blessed with high ceilings and long corridors. With flooring available in flat and plain colours, you can have floor to ceiling white and black that creates a timeless look.

Perfect parquet flooring suits hallways big or small

Heavy, durable and stunning when laid in its classic herringbone design, parquet flooring is the floor of dreams. Choose a gorgeous barn oak brushed engineered hardwood for a rustic and country feel or for a more lived-in look, a faded oak parquet gives the illusion that the flooring has been laid for years and looks stunning against pastel walls and natural accessories.

Complement high ceilings with dark wood flooring

High ceilings can often be the centrepiece of any room, allowing streams of light and gorgeous features. But this does also lend itself to opting for darker tones when it comes to the walls and floor. Choose from dark oaks such as a coffee matt flooring, funky LVT tiles or stunning black laminate tiles to create a floor people will remember.

Your flooring can not only be stylish but also look incredible and what better way to welcome people into your home than with flooring that invites them in.

The post 10 Hallway Floor Ideas to Create a Great First Impression appeared first on Factory Direct Flooring.

Choose colour to create a feature

The great thing about tiles is the variety of colours available. You can create any design or pattern you want to make your floor the main feature of the room. Kitchens don’t have to be boring so if you feel like getting creative, snap up different styles, shapes and designs to make your kitchen the perfect room for entertaining.

Invest in dark tiles for a modern feel

Chic and modern interior designs will stand the test of time, so for your next flooring project why not consider adopting this style for your kitchen floor? Dark vinyl tiles are the ideal choice as they are easy to install, look great against walls and units and will stand the test of time against all the uses of a kitchen.

Opt for comfort and style with vinyl tiles

Traditional porcelain, stone or ceramic tiles can often of being cold underfoot. There is the option of installing underfloor heating to keep the chill off, but a much cheaper and more effective solution is to choose cushioned vinyl flooring. Soft, comfortable and also completely waterproof, there’s no better alternative to ensuring you have maximum comfort at a reasonable price.

Use tiles to create a country cottage feel

Whether you live in the idyllic chocolate-box house or your exterior is a modern classic, you can hybrid these styles if the country cottage feel is what you’ve always wanted. The flooring in these kitchen types is a key feature and gives it the timeless design that is sought after. From terracotta tiles to farmhouse oak click vinyl tiles, there are so many tile options that can give you the look and feel of a beautiful cosy home.

Create a holiday feel with patterned tiles

Patterned tiled floors look stunning with a clean and simple decor. For a Mediterranean-style kitchen, choose patterned tiles in pastel greys and blues to create the vision of warm and sunny holidays. Teamed with white walls, clean and glossy worktops and chrome accessories, you’ll feel as though you're always eating in a holiday villa.

Zone out kitchen areas with different flooring options

Depending on the use of your kitchen, tiles can be a great way to zone out certain areas. Whether it’s creating a safe space to cook, a relaxed area for entertaining or a fun space for children or pets to play, there are options to team the look and feel you want with practicality.

Embrace an earthy feel with natural looking flooring

With sustainability being the focus for many homes, the need to choose the right flooring that doesn’t impact the environment is key. Tiles are a great choice as individual pieces can be easily replaced, rather than pulling up the whole floor. With different tile choices, whether it’s traditional tile or luxury vinyl tiles, you’ll find the right option that will limit your environmental impact.

Mock slate tiles for a classic style flooring

Slate is a popular choice for kitchen tiles because of their durability and easy maintenance, but did you know you can find the same style in a different material? Luxury vinyl slate tiles are one option and are easy to upkeep, completely waterproof and durable against spillages and stains. For a slate look and feel, consider this as an option for your home.

The post 8 Kitchen Floor Tile Ideas to Improve Your Home appeared first on Factory Direct Flooring.

1. Go bold with patterned flooring

Looking to give your bathroom an uplift? Don’t feel you have to stick with plain old tiles for your flooring. An up and coming choice is patterned flooring and toning down with the bathroom suite, or why not a whole host of awesome colours and designs to give the room its personality.

Tiles are always a popular choice for bathroom flooring but consider vinyl when looking at your revamp? There is so much choice, such as this funky Cosystep patterned flooring that will look amazing with chrome accessories, a white bathroom suite and exposed pipework.

2. Keep it simple with light and bright colours

If a simple bathroom decor is far more your style, then consider going light and bright to make the most of the space and create a calming atmosphere. Although white or pale flooring may not seem practical for some rooms of the home, for a bathroom, this can work wonders when teamed with an accent colour in towels and accessories. 

3. Fake the wood effect for a traditional style

The traditional and country chic bathroom will never go out of style, and you don’t even have to live in a chocolate box cottage to replicate this style. Although real and engineered wooden flooring isn’t recommended for bathrooms due to the high moisture content, there are some awesome replicas out there such as the oak herringbone click vinyl that can give the exact look with the durability of lasting for years to come.

4. Create the illusion of a bigger space

If you’re looking to renovate a smaller bathroom or restroom space, then the right flooring can provide the illusion of more space than you may have. Go for lighter flooring to emphasise the natural light available and team with a big mirror and limited clutter for a more basic feel.

It’s best to also reduce dividing lines so when opting for flooring, vinyl bathroom flooring is your best option as there are limited joins and breaks to work around so can be a much simpler process to install.

5. Mimic marble flooring for a luxury look

If luxury is what you’re after, then marble and granite are the materials you’re after to create this look. Plush towels and luxurious fixtures and fittings will give you the bathroom you can imagine in the most beautiful hotels. Although this may sound expensive, an affordable way to create this look is by mimicking the marble flooring rather than opting for the real thing. There are so many ways to achieve a look without the hefty price tag.

6. Create a cosy bathroom with warm flooring

Most bathrooms are understandably built around practicality but what if comfort could be incorporated into the design? Tiles are notoriously cold underfoot and not everyone has the budget for underfloor heating, but there is a solution. Cushioned vinyl flooring offers that extra level of comfort when the colder nights draw in and provide a cosy and homely feel to any bathroom, whilst also maintaining the practicality that’s needed.

7. Go modern with dark flooring

We’ve given some ideas for smaller bathrooms, but those lucky enough to have space to play with may want to go for a darker vibe for a more modern look. From beautiful slate showers and floor to ceiling colours, the modern bathroom can be transformed just with a colour change. 

There are several options to choose from when it comes to flooring to create this style, whether it’s dark tiles, vinyl or LVT flooring, the options are endless, but don’t be afraid to go bold.

8. Low maintenance and great style with vinyl

Home renovations take time, but there are options that make that process a little easier whilst still resulting in an incredible finish. When it comes to bathrooms, vinyl is one of those options. As we’ve previously mentioned, there are so many options in terms of colour, style and pattern, as well as the guarantee of durability, it’s a winner for any bathroom project.

If you’re looking for more inspiration for the flooring of your home, have a browse through our Advice Centre where we’ll be able to support your home renovation journey with top style tips, flooring options and maintenance to keep them looking their best.

Unsure what you need?

Whatever you’re looking for, the best way to be sure of what you need and want is to order samples. You can do this for free for up to 2 samples quickly and easily on the Factory Direct Flooring website. Simply choose the flooring you’d like ‘Order Free Sample’ and follow the checkout process. These will then be delivered to your requested address, ready for you to try out. Any issues or questions, our friendly team are on hand to help, so get in touch.

The post Bathroom Flooring Ideas, Inspiration & Considerations appeared first on Factory Direct Flooring.

1. Add warmth and comfort with vinyl flooring

The kitchen doesn’t just function as a place to cook and eat solely. From installing televisions to choosing elaborate seating, the kitchen’s traditional practicality is now on a par with being a social place to enjoy with friends and family so making decisions on the look and feel of this room is even more important to ensure a level of luxury and comfort.

Choose flooring that provides a level of comfort underfoot. Luxury vinyl tiles are perfect for creating a level of warmth due to the cushioned feel, whilst withstanding intensive cleaning and footfall compared to carpet.

2. Choose patterned flooring for an ‘in vogue’ feel

Deciding on the right choice of flooring for your kitchen comes down to keeping to your style, however, an ‘in vogue’ option is to use flooring to add colour and patterns to the room, rather than relying solely on wall paint and accessories.

Choose beautiful oak wood flooring in a deep colour, laid in a herringbone effect pattern to give a feel of ultimate luxury and style. Perfect for high traffic areas and uplifting the ambience of living space, this flooring will suit any kitchen, big or small.

For a more modern twist, opt for a Spanish tile vinyl that gives the illusion of intricately laid tiles, without the hard feel underfoot. Cushioned for comfort, vinyl provided the style and substance when it comes to flooring.

3. Mimic modern tiles

A classic look to any modern kitchen is the addition of large tiles. Whether it’s a rustic natural stone finish or glossy porcelain, tiles are a common choice for kitchen floors due to their durability and stylish quality.

However, did you know that you can mimic a very similar look, with a much shorter installation time? LVT click-flooring is the perfect solution to mimicking the desirable tile flooring and is available in a whole range of styles and colours that will keep your kitchen looking beautiful for years to come.

If a modern style is what you desire for your kitchen, then don’t dismiss the option of LVT as there are a lot of colours and sizes to choose from that will create the exact look you’re after.

4. Keep it traditional with real wooden flooring

Wooden flooring never goes out of style which is why there is always so much choice in terms of design, styles and colours and the kitchen is the perfect room to install this.

If you’re looking for traditional style wood flooring that is in keeping with a character property, why not opt for a distressed real wood floor that will appear as though it’s always been part of the house. The gorgeous rich tones and beautiful manufacturing make it easy to see why so many people are going back to the traditional styles for their homes.

Can wooden flooring be used in kitchens? Yes! It’s just important to keep on top of the maintenance and used manufacture approved cleaners.

5. Contrast flooring with walls for an up-to-date kitchen

Your home’s decor should reflect you and your personality, so don’t be put off choosing what you love, even if this is a little more out there than the ‘norm’. One trend that seems to be popular is contrasting the floor colours with the walls giving rooms their own character and style.

There are lots of colours that you may not have yet discovered that could be the perfect solution for your new kitchen. Consider black laminated flooring and team with bold paint colour and contrasting worktops. Or maybe a patterned laminate could be the answer to creating a fun style that the whole family will enjoy.

6. Opt for an industrial style

Exposed brick and pipework may be popular in big city apartments, but this can also transfer well to any home. A polished concrete floor can be a striking feature within a kitchen for the ultimate industrial look, but if your home isn’t set up for this and you want to invest in flooring that gives the look and feel of this feature, then there are plenty of options.

Vinyl flooring is the perfect choice for giving the illusion of a smooth and consistent floor, commonly associated with industrial ambience. With slate grey flooring being synonymous with this look and feel, it’s easily replicated using this flooring typer and you’ll be guaranteed quality.

7. Laminate offers a practical solution

If real wood flooring isn’t an option, laminate is the perfect kitchen alternative. Easy to install and with so many colours, styles and thicknesses to choose from it’s a no brainer to see why this is one of the most popular flooring options for many homes.

Withstanding high footfall and durable against everyday usage, laminate flooring is ideal for families big and small as well as having the capacity to fill large spaces. Create a traditional design with herringbone laminate or keep it simple with traditional planks that create crisp lines and symmetry within the home.

8. Create a Mediterranean feel with light flooring

If you want a kitchen that oozes sophistication and takes you to sunnier places, opt for beautifully crisp white floors that are sure to give you that holiday feel. For this type of flooring tiles may be your go-to solution, but prestige gloss laminate flooring gives a similar effect whilst being incredibly simple to lay.

Teamed with beautiful terracotta accessories or pastel sea blues, you’ll have a Mediterranean paradise in your very own home.

9. Laminate or Vinyl for easy installation and style

As well as looking great, no one wants their kitchen out of action for longer than needs be, which is why laminate and vinyl flooring can be a great solution for busy homes. Easy to install as well as giving a beautiful desired effect, it’s easy to see why they are so popular compared to other slightly timely installations.

Take a look at your options and find the perfect flooring to suit your plans for a kitchen revamp.

Unsure what you need?

Whatever you’re looking for, the best way to be sure of what you need and want is to order samples. You can do this for free for up to 2 samples quickly and easily on the Factory Direct Flooring website. Simply choose the flooring you’d like ‘Order Free Sample’ and follow the checkout process. These will then be delivered to your requested address, ready for you to try out. Any issues or questions, our friendly team are on hand to help, so get in touch.

The post Kitchen Flooring Ideas, Inspiration & Considerations appeared first on Factory Direct Flooring.

Want to add a delicious sense of character and sophistication to your kitchen without creating a recipe for disaster? Find out more below.

What your parquet kitchen floor will be up against

In a kitchen, it’s those old enemies of water, heat and high footfall that can damage wooden parquet flooring over time.

Water

Typically, you’ll have sinks, washing machines, dishwashers and numerous pipes located around the room. So you’ll want to make sure all your plumbing is watertight and all appliances are in good working order. Any leaks could soak into the wood and lead to warping, expansion or mould. Similarly, spillages from pans of water, soups or sauces, glasses of drinks, bottles of wine and more can cause problems in terms of moisture and stains if not dealt with promptly.

Heat

These days, modern ovens and boilers are usually well-insulated and often mounted higher up. However, a floor-mounted cooker or vintage oven could give off enough heat to gradually affect the parquet floor, again causing warping, drying-out and shrinkage.

Footfall

With the kitchen being one of the most-used rooms in the home, it’ll need to stand up to a fair amount of wear and tear. Expect all kinds of footwear to cross it – heavy boots and shoes can leave black marks, while high heels can make deep indents in the wood.

Protecting against all these issues is one of the main concerns when laying a parquet kitchen floor. Its longevity in terms of durability and appearance will be down to your preparation. What you do during installation and after-care can ensure a great-looking floor for years to come.

Which wood works best?

There are a few types of wood that are most suitable for parquet flooring in a kitchen.

Reclaimed parquet

Being already well-cured and toughened from years of oils, varnish or lacquer, a reclaimed parquet floor can make an ideal material for your kitchen.

Oak, pitch pine or tropical hardwoods

Being denser by nature, these woods tend to be most stable when used for parquet flooring. They respond very well to oiling, varnishes and lacquer top coats, and are available in a variety of attractive shades.

Alternatively…

For a slightly more cost-effective solution to real wood, you might consider engineered wood or high-quality laminate parquet flooring. As well as looking great, they usually prove to be more hard-wearing and resistant to stains, grease and water infringement.

RachelSomervilleInteriors

Kitchen parquet floor installation tips

When you’ve invested in high-quality luxury flooring for your kitchen, you’ll want it to be well-prepared for long years of productive service. Here are a few pointers to ensure you get the most out of it.

Fill the gaps

After fitting, make sure all gaps between the wooden tiles are filled. If laid professionally and correctly, a new parquet floor will not have any gaps to fill, but if the flooring has been exposed to damp, contraction or movement then you may see spaces. If left, these will allow damp or spillages to seep into the flooring and under the parquet, which will cause problems down the line.

A common way to deal with gaps is to use a resin filler mixed with fine wood dust, usually gathered during the sanding process. Alternatively, you can use a proprietary premixed wood filler or wood putty, pushing it into every gap and wiping away excess as you go.

Top coat

As well as applying oil to a freshly laid and sanded parquet floor, use a high-quality top coat of lacquer or varnish to make it as waterproof as possible. This will also allow you to polish and shine the floor, making it more stain-resistant and easy to wipe clean.

Tiles for heat

If you are planning a floor-mounted oven, it’ll be likely to give off a lot of heat. So it’s wise to lay ceramic tiles in the area it will cover, rather than positioning it on your luxury wood flooring. These will be far more resistant to heat and prevent expansion or contraction of the flooring affecting the wider area around it.

Kitchen first, floor second

If you are getting a new kitchen fully fitted, we recommend installing all units before laying the parquet floor in your kitchen. Fitting the wood flooring first could restrict the natural movement in the tiles, possibly causing buckling at a later date. It may also expose the new floor to a greater risk of damage during the kitchen installation.

Caring for your parquet kitchen floor

Here are a few common-sense measures to help ensure the long life of your floor.

• In case of spillages, wipe them up immediately to avoid any liquid penetration into the floor. It’s bad enough with water, but even more urgent with grease, sauces or wine.
• Use a suitable wooden floor cleaner designed for use on treated wood. You’ll find many brands offering cleaning fluids that are light on wooden surfaces.
• Never use bleach on a wooden parquet floor – this is likely to corrode the coating and expose it to more damage.
• When cleaning, keep sponges lightly damp rather than completely wet. Too much water may result in seepage, leading to issues like expansion, warping and mould.
• In general, sweep or vacuum the floor at least twice a week to prevent any grit from being trodden in or scratching the parquet surface.
• Regularly check your plumbing – the pipe connectors and seals into appliances as well as seals around doors – in case of wear.
• Consider using a transparent vinyl floor mat in areas that are exposed to a lot of footfall or water spillage – around sinks, for example.

Our parquet flooring prices...

While traditional parquet flooring is made of real wooden tiles, many other practical and cost-effective alternatives are available to provide a comparably luxurious effect. What you need to pay for the flooring will depend on the materials used. Here’s a rough guide to your options, from premium products to those that offer high value for money.

Premium parquet

Real wood panels are more expensive to source and manufacture, and so come at a higher price. Real wood, like our Cubano Oak engineered flooring, can be lacquered and fully bonded to your floor to guarantee long-lasting stability and durability.

Engineered real wood  £44.80 – £64.88 per m2

Mid-range alternatives

Mid-range parquet flooring usually comprises a heavier laminate (around 8mm) or luxury vinyl tiles, such as the Farmhouse Oak herringbone click vinyl. These offer the perfect mix of durability, luxury, practicality and quality, delivering a great result quickly and effectively.

Heavier laminate  £15.72 – £26.51 per m2
LVT / Click Vinyl tiles  £20.99 – £31.20 per m2

High-value parquet effect

Quality lino or vinyl flooring – like the Parquet Valley Antique Oak vinyl, for example – is more cost-effective, comes in a variety of patterns, textures and tones, and still provides a luxurious experience. Usually exceptional value for money.

Vinyl roll  £10.60 – £16.72 per m2
Cushioned vinyl  £9.61 – £20.98 per m2

Ready to choose your flooring?

Take a look through all the shades, sizes, styles, textures and other options in our dedicated parquet flooring section and use the handy room area calculator to get an idea of the cost.

Looking for inspiration on designs, so your floor really stands out from the crowd? Check out our complete guide to parquet flooring patterns.

The post Parquet Flooring for Kitchens appeared first on Factory Direct Flooring.

Using wood flooring in a bathroom, therefore, would seem like an obvious choice to enhance the air of comfort and relaxation, and many homeowners are now trying to replicate the spa aesthetic in their homes. However, with the natural abundance of water in the room, real wood is probably not the best choice. Here, we explore all the considerations around wood flooring and the best alternatives for your bathroom.

@woodsintothewoods

Real wood flooring in your bathroom

If you’re looking to add an air of authenticity and sophistication to your bathroom, then using real wood flooring can seem like a highly attractive option. As well as its organic feel, natural flexibility and subtle tones and textures, real wood brings a sense of the traditional, especially in dark wood finishes or herringbone designs.

This can work extremely well when complemented by antique-style fittings and ironmongery, copper baths or Victorian-inspired decor. However, a real wood floor also carries many drawbacks, and it is not recommended for bathrooms.

The problems with real wood floors in bathrooms

The first and most obvious problem with a real wood floor in the bathroom is that it is not completely waterproof. While treatments such as lacquers or oils can help a great deal, real wood always tends to be much less water resistant than vinyl or LVT flooring, especially given the amount of exposure to water you can expect. Even if you are particularly careful with spillages, real wood does not tolerate humidity well, and you may have to contend with boards expanding, warping, coming loose or even rotting over time.

The efforts to protect a real wood floor in a bathroom – regular oiling, lacquering and cleaning – can make it a very high-maintenance feature. You should also bear in mind that good-quality real wood can be expensive to replace if damaged, causing further disruption to your sanctuary of calm cleanliness.

The good news is that there are a few highly workable alternatives to real wood in bathrooms that will maintain both the look and feel of traditional boards while offering the water-resistance and durability that you need.

Engineered wood bathroom flooring

Engineered wood flooring is similar to real wood – and we don’t recommend it for bathrooms either, for the same reasons.

Manufactured using alternating layers of plywood and real wood, it delivers the appearance and quality feel of real wood flooring, but without the same level of maintenance or hefty price tag. Engineered wood feels natural, luxurious and smooth underfoot, and can appear just as authentic as real wood, especially if using vintage tones and patterns.

Its design and composition makes engineered wood easier to install and maintain, but it’s worth noting that engineered wood floors can vary greatly in durability depending on the price. Also, while being more tolerant to dampness than 100% real wood, it is still subject to warping, expanding and other types of damage.

It’s always advisable to talk over your needs and aims with an expert to ensure you’re looking at the right flooring. In general, while it is more hard-wearing than solid wood, it would still require a great deal of maintenance and we don’t recommend engineered wood for bathrooms.

Is laminate flooring suitable for bathrooms?

Similarly to engineered wood, laminate flooring can seem like another attractive alternative to real wood, with its natural-looking grain textures, warm timber colours and smooth feel. Also composed of layers, it has a core of high density fibre (HDF), giving it more rigidity and resistance to warping.

However, even though laminate flooring is a great, cheaper alternative to real wood or engineered wood in just about any room in the home, we still wouldn’t recommend it for a bathroom, as HDF tends to expand in wet and high humidity environments.

Still pondering the various benefits or drawbacks of laminate, engineered or real wood flooring in the rooms around your home? Read through our guide comparing the differences between Engineered vs Laminate vs Solid Wood.

What are the best alternatives to real wood flooring in bathrooms?

When it comes to bathrooms, water-resistance and tolerance to damp and humidity are the key points to consider. This will inevitably mean using man-made materials, but the rich range of textures, tones, grains and patterns available bear a close relationship to their real wood cousins. Consequently, the overall effect you are able to achieve will still bring an air of luxury and sophistication to your bathroom, and your floor will maintain its good looks for many years to come.

LVT (Luxury Vinyl Tile) or Click Vinyl

LVT is often the first choice for people looking to bring a sense of style to their bathroom. Composed of a highly-durable composite with a tough vinyl layer on its upper surface, LVT combines the luscious, mature, natural appearance of wood with the hard-wearing practicality of high density fibre. Because of the flexible nature of the materials, the choices of wood tones, textures and finishes mean there’s likely to be the perfect flooring to accompany any style of bathroom furniture and decor.

LVT flooring for bathrooms is usually highly water-resistant, and in some cases 100% waterproof, so you’ll never have to deal with expensive, time-consuming wood treatments or warping boards. Manufactured in click or glue-down format, it’s incredibly easy to lay and relatively inexpensive to buy, with costs ranging from mid to high depending on the quality.

Our own ‘Aqua Plank’ range is 100% waterproof, and therefore an ideal solution  for kitchens as well as bathrooms. The higher-quality luxury vinyl tiles, such as the Farmhouse Oak herringbone click vinyl, give a rich, authentic-looking result in a quick, practical and effective manner. LVT or Click Vinyl tiles usually range in price between £20.99 to £31.20 per square metre.

Vinyl

Vinyl is usually the go-to choice for bathrooms thanks to its complete water-resistance and very reasonable cost. With most options coming with a cushioned layer, it can feel fantastically soft and warm underfoot, while still maintaining the appearance of a sophisticated wooden floor.

Vinyl flooring, such as our Parquet Valley Antique Oak vinyl, offers excellent value for money while still providing an eminently comparable experience when it comes to your floor. The wide, rich variety of patterns, textures and tones available – from antique wood effect to a freshly-sanded look, in all kinds of colours and patterns, as well as an array of ceramic tile effect choices – mean your bathroom floor will look stunning. And as it’s easy to clean, stain resistant and waterproof, it’ll stay that way for a long time.

Usually working out as exceptional value for money, Standard Vinyl roll flooring or Cushioned Vinyl options typically range in price from £9.61 to £20.98 per square metre.

You can order free samples of any flooring from our website to test how the various vinyl styles will look with your decor, and we’ll post them to you first class delivery. And don’t forget our price promise – we’ll never be beaten by a competitor and will beat any quotes on like-for-like products.

Ready to choose your flooring?

Take a look through all the tones, styles, widths, thicknesses and other options in our luxury vinyl tiles and vinyl flooring for bathrooms, and look out for special offers on lines that could suit your home. With our room area calculator, you’ll be able to get an idea of how much it’ll cost, too.

The post Can Real Wood Flooring Work in Bathrooms? appeared first on Factory Direct Flooring.

Being long-lasting, easy to clean and stunning to look at, you’d be forgiven for thinking that parquet flooring also comes with a premium price tag. However, with styles, materials and costs to suit all budgets, it’s an option open to everyone looking to upgrade their home.

How much does parquet flooring cost?

Depending on which material you chose, the cost of parquet flooring per metre squared can vary from just £16.00 per m2 for vinyl options to £75.00 per m2 for premium engineered wood panels – with a choice of timbers like oak, walnut, pine or hickory. With the average living room being 17 m2, you would be looking at anything between approximately £272 and £1,275 to cover your floor, depending on the type of flooring you choose.

However, it’s worth bearing in mind there are many options available between these two extremes and, of course, we are also likely to offer preferential deals on many ranges. Check our current stock listings of parquet flooring to see where you could get great value for money on a premium product.

What can affect flooring costs?

The type of materials you use will be only one thing that affects the costs of your flooring. In addition, you might need to also take into account the rooms’ shape and size, and the condition of the existing floor surface.

Shape of the room

It’s easy to calculate the number of planks or panels you’ll need to buy and the amount of time it’s likely to take if your room is a simple square or rectangle. But if you have any peculiarities – such as an L-shaped room, a curved wall or a few alcoves – then this is likely to increase the amount of materials you need to purchase, as well as time it’ll take to cut panels to size.

Existing condition

You might be lucky enough to be working with a screed concrete floor or solid floorboards that provide a level, robust surface on which to lay your parquet flooring. If your building is older, you might have to check for any crumbled points in your base layer, or any bumps or undulations caused by expanded or warped beams, and make the appropriate repairs before starting to lay your parquet floor.

Size of the room

Most obviously, the larger area you need to cover, then the more you’ll need to pay for materials and labour. This said, it may still be cheaper to cover 2 rooms of 24 m2 than 3 rooms of 16 m2 (even though in both cases the total coverage is 48 m2) due to the amount of cutting needed.

Is parquet flooring expensive?

Compared to other methods of covering your floor, parquet flooring can work out quite favourably. Carpets and linoleum can appear cheaper, costing anything from £5 per m2 for the most basic options to £45 per m2 for a luxury product, but parquet flooring carries many extra benefits:

• Very easy to clean and maintain compared to carpets
• Highly resistant to water and stains
• Exceptionally durable finish, meaning replacement will be far less frequent
• Its high-quality appearance can add value to your home

In the long run, parquet flooring could work out to be a more worthwhile investment.

Our parquet flooring prices

There are parquet flooring products to suit all types of rooms and budgets, and what you can expect to pay will depend on the material of the tiles.

Premium

Higher-quality real wood panels are more expensive to source and manufacture, and so come at a higher price. Real wood, like our Cubano Oak engineered flooring, can be lacquered and fully bonded to your floor to guarantee long-lasting stability and durability.

Engineered real wood £44.80 – £64.88 per m2

Medium

Often providing the perfect mix of quality, durability, luxury and practicality, medium-range parquet flooring is usually a heavier laminate (around 8mm) or luxury vinyl tiles, such as the Farmhouse Oak herringbone click vinyl, giving a great result in a fast and effective way.

Heavier laminate £15.72 – £26.51 per m2
LVT / Click Vinyl tiles £20.99 – £31.20 per m2

Value

Low cost parquet flooring – such as the Parquet Valley Antique Oak vinyl – doesn’t necessarily equate to a lesser experience when it comes to the patterns, textures and tones provided, and usually works out as exceptional value for money.

Vinyl roll £10.60 – £16.72 per m2
Cushioned vinyl £9.61 – £20.98 per m2

How much does it cost to install parquet flooring?

Installing parquet flooring varies in difficulty according to the type – while click laminate panels or vinyl sheets can be fast and easy to install, glue-down panels or real wood tiles can require more experience to deliver a perfect end result.

The cost of paying a professional to lay your floor will also vary according to who you speak to. Some craftsmen will charge anything between £100-£200 per day, while others will charge according to the coverage area, with £10-£30 per square metre being typical, depending on the surface condition.

Also bear in mind the cost of removing old flooring, if your property has been around a while. This could be as little as £2-£5 per square metre, but could stretch to £15-£20 or even more in the case of more complex removal projects.

Can I install parquet flooring myself?

The beauty of modern parquet flooring is that, even though it looks luxurious and distinctive, it can be surprisingly easy to install. If you have the right tools for the job, it’s likely you can lay your own parquet floor with the minimum of fuss.

To help you make sure everything goes to plan, we’ve created a full guide to laying herringbone flooring that covers every stage in detail. We’re continually impressed with customers’ own handiwork, with some even sharing their floor-laying skills on social media!

Of course, if you’ve chosen one of our vinyl parquet flooring patterns, then the job could be completed even faster, although we would probably recommend talking to a professional to ensure it’s fitted perfectly, without any damage or tears in the process. Similarly, if you’re using ‘glue-down’ flooring rather than click laminate sections, it’s a more intricate job and you’ll do better enlisting the services of an experienced flooring specialist.

Ready to choose your flooring?

Take a look through all the tones, styles, widths, thicknesses and other options in our parquet flooring section and use the room area calculator to get an idea of how much it’ll cost.

Looking for inspiration on designs, so your floor really stands out from the crowd? Check out our complete guide to parquet flooring patterns.

The post How Much is Parquet Flooring? appeared first on Factory Direct Flooring.