Once main construction has been completed, flooring for new build houses is one of the key design choices facing developers. Despite a slight slump in recent years, the construction sector is set to bounce back in the months and years ahead. As recently reported by the Irish Times, the Banking and Payments Federation Ireland (BPFI) anticipates that more than 22,000 new homes will be built in 2022, with a further 27,000 to follow in 2023. This level of output will be the busiest construction sector since 2008.
If you’ve recently undertaken a construction project or are looking to purchase a new build in Ireland, you’ll need to think seriously about eco-friendly ways to renovate such as sustainable flooring. Engineered wood flooring is the obvious choice for those looking for long-term value as it is high in quality, affordable and eco-friendly. More cost-effective and durable than solid hardwood flooring, it’s a practical and easy-to-install solution that can instantly transform a property. Here at Wood Flooring Ireland, we offer an extensive range of engineered wood flooring products to suit every taste and budget.
Choosing Flooring Materials for New Build Houses
If you’re planning on undertaking a new build construction project, you’ll no doubt have found yourself weighing up the pros and cons of various flooring materials. Those looking to stick to a tight budget may find themselves leaning towards materials such as vinyl and laminate flooring. Although inexpensive, these materials aren’t ideal if you’re looking to add value to your new build projects.
If you’re planning on renting out a property, it makes sense to pick flooring that will survive multiple rental periods. Carpets are prone to pulling, tears, and stains. In many instances, landlords find themselves having to replace entire carpets before renting out their properties again to future tenants. Laminate flooring also tends to be a short-term solution, with superficial wear and tear often impossible to repair. Again, engineered wood flooring seems to be the answer as it’s extremely durable and can last for over 30 years.
Why Engineered Wood Flooring is the Best Choice for New Builds
Oak wood flooring and other hardwood materials are often considered the best choice for new builds. Although attractive, solid hardwoods require considerable upkeep. Engineered wood flooring is a far better alternative. Not only is engineered wood flooring far more durable than traditional solid wood floors, but it’s also relatively affordable and far easier to install.
Advantages of Engineered Wood Flooring
If you’re looking for flooring for new build houses, engineered wood is your answer. Not only is this hard-If you’re looking for flooring for new build houses, engineered wood is your answer. Not only is this hard-wearing material an ideal option for those looking for a long-term investment, but you also have a wealth of designs and colour varieties to consider. Still unsure whether engineered wood flooring is the right choice for your new build? Read on for more reasons on why it’s the perfect choice of flooring for new build houses.
Stability
Engineered wood flooring is an attractive and practical alternative to solid hardwood flooring. One advantage of engineered wood flooring is its stability. Unlike solid hardwood, which can shrink, expand and warp over time due to changes in temperature and humidity, engineered wood flooring is constructed with a core of high-density fiberboard or plywood that is covered with a top layer of real hardwood veneer. This makes engineered wood flooring more resistant to moisture and temperature changes, making it an ideal choice for homeowners who are looking for a durable and long-lasting flooring solution, especially in areas with high traffic, such as vacation rentals.
When it comes to vacation rentals, the durability and stability of engineered wood flooring are especially important. With the increasing popularity of vacation rental properties, owners need to choose flooring that can withstand the wear and tear of frequent use. Additionally, vacation rental software can help property owners manage their properties more efficiently and effectively, including tracking maintenance and upkeep of the floors. By choosing engineered wood flooring and incorporating the use of vacation rental software, property owners can enjoy the beauty and durability of hardwood floors while maximizing their rental income.
It’s Easy to Install
If you’re looking for flooring for new build houses that’s easy to install, pick engineered flooring. In the case of solid hardwood flooring, time-consuming preparation is required to cut planks and panels down to suitable sizes. This doesn’t apply to engineered wood flooring. Because of its unique construction, it is far easier to cut to size, making it suitable for just about any interior, no matter how awkward your floor plan. Fitting engineered flooring material is also straightforward. You won’t have to rely on adhesives or nails to fit your pieces in place. Most engineered wood flooring products are suitable for floating installation. All you need to do before installation is ensure an underlay is in place.
Incredibly Durable
If you’re looking for flooring for new build houses that will stand the test of time, engineered wood flooring is a first-rate option. In terms of longevity, it is comparable to solid hardwood, with premium products likely to last for several decades.
If you want your engineered wood flooring to last for as long as possible, make sure you’re choosing panels and planks with a thick veneer layer. This veneer will not only protect against superficial damage but will also greatly enhance the moisture-resistance performance of your flooring.
A thicker veneer will also allow you to undertake maintenance and occasional refinishing of your flooring. As a general rule, veneer thickness of at least 2mm is needed. This will allow you to strip away surface layers of veneer and carry out several refinishing jobs over the years.
A Sustainable Product
Choosing sustainable products has never been more important. If you’re looking for flooring for new build houses with impressive green credentials, make engineered wood flooring your first port of call. It is made up of a plywood core, with only the outer layer being made from newly-sourced wood. This means the environmental impact is minimal.
The overall manufacturing process of tends to be less harmful to the environment than other flooring products. At Wood Flooring Ireland, we strive to offer our customers eco-friendly options that are better for the environment. Our products contain no toxic finishing oils or adhesives, making them a greener option and a better choice for those looking to improve the indoor air quality of their homes.
Hassle-Free Maintenance
Because of their robust construction, engineered wood floors are incredibly easy to maintain. Unlike solid wood floors, they won’t easily warp when exposed to moisture or extreme highs or lows in temperature.
If you’re wondering how to clean engineered wood floors, you’ll be glad to know that upkeep is straightforward. Avoid using any aggressive chemicals and cleaning solutions high in acidity. For best results, use a damp cloth or mop and stick to veneer-friendly floor cleaning products.
Versatile Installation Options
Engineered wood flooring copes with moisture and temperature extremes quite comfortably meaning you’re free to install it in just about any room of the home. It can also be used in conjunction with underfloor heating systems, meaning you’re not limited to drab tiles.
A Wealth of Colour Options
Engineered wood flooring also offers you increased colour options, freeing you up from limited natural Engineered wood flooring also offers you increased colour options, freeing you up from limited natural hues. It’s an ideal option for those looking for flooring for new build homes, with white wood flooring making the perfect addition to contemporary interiors. White flooring is also effective at opening up smaller interiors and giving the illusion of added space. If you’re keen on contemporary aesthetics, but want something with a bit more character, grey wood flooring is a good compromise.
What are the Different Types of Wood Flooring Available?
Engineered wood flooring may be an eco-friendly and affordable solution, but it’s by no means limited when it comes to style options. When you opt for engineered wood flooring, you have just as many style choices to choose from as if you were selecting traditional solid hardwood flooring.
Long plank wood flooring is one of the most popular choices around. Planks come in a variety of lengths and widths, allowing you to find something that perfectly fits the intended space. Longer planks are particularly good for larger interiors and open-plan configurations. They can also be used effectively to give the impression of increased square footage in smaller rooms. Long planks are also incredibly versatile. You can trim individual pieces down to size to accommodate awkward layouts, without having to sacrifice a seamless aesthetic.
If you’re after more character, you might want to consider chevron flooring. This style of flooring can make an impression on new build properties. Chevron flooring is instantly identifiable thanks to its signature V-shaped pattern. Planks are laid at a 45-degree angle, producing a subtle, but incredibly effective arrow motif. Although timeless, chevron flooring is incredibly versatile. It can showcase the subtle beauty of hardwood veneers, or add some much-needed character to white or grey coloured flooring.
Herringbone flooring is another popular option for those looking to inject more personality into their interiors. It’s somewhat like chevron flooring, although panels are cut and arranged at a 45-degree angle to produce a more subtle zigzag motif. It can be a great way of creating drama in smaller rooms when working with darker hues, although it’s equally effective in larger spaces if you’ve opted for a lighter coloured veneer.
If you’re someone who embraces elegance, Versailles panels might be the way to go. These intricate floor panels combine a variety of square, triangular and rectangular shapes, producing a distinctive woven design. They’re an ideal choice if you’re opting for engineered wood flooring in a darker hue or opting for an authentic oak veneer with plenty of natural grain character.
Speak to the Team Today
Looking for premium flooring for new build houses? At Wood Flooring Ireland, we offer a huge range of premium products that can transform any interior. Engineered wood flooring is the obvious choice for new builds, helping you add great style and value to your property. Furthermore, it’s incredibly durable and easy to install, meaning you won’t have to worry about time delays holding your building project back.
Interested in learning more about the advantages of engineered wood flooring? Get in touch with the team at Wood Flooring Ireland today. You can visit our showroom in Cork today to explore the range in person. Alternatively, drop us a message via the online contact form or call us directly on 021 4629913.