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Choosing the Perfect Bedroom Wood Flooring in the UK | The Comprehensive Guide

Posted on April 24, 2023

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The Comprehensive Guide to Choosing the Perfect Bedroom Wood Flooring in the UK

Your bedroom is your sanctuary, a place where you can unwind and relax after a long day. The flooring of your bedroom plays a crucial role in providing not only comfort but also elevating the aesthetics of the room. Wood flooring is a popular choice among UK homeowners for its timeless appeal, durability, and versatility. This comprehensive guide will help you make an informed decision when selecting the perfect wood flooring for your bedroom in the UK.

Understand the Types of Wood Flooring

Before delving into the details, it’s essential to know the different types of wood flooring available on the market.

a. Solid Wood Flooring: As the name suggests, it is made from solid wooden planks, usually with a thickness of 18–20 mm. This type of flooring is known for its durability, lasting for decades if properly maintained.

Gorgeous pine flooring, sanded, gaps filled and finished with natural matt lacquer.

b. Engineered Wood Flooring: Engineered wood flooring consists of multiple layers of wood pressed together with a top layer of hardwood veneer. This type of flooring is more stable and resistant to humidity and temperature fluctuations than solid wood flooring.

c. Laminate Flooring: Laminate flooring is not real wood but mimics the look of wood using a high-resolution image of wood grain sealed with a protective layer. It is more affordable than solid and engineered wood flooring but has a shorter lifespan.

Consider the wood species

When choosing wood flooring for your bedroom, you need to consider the wood species, as it will impact the overall look, durability, and price of the flooring.

a. Oak: Oak is the most popular wood species in the UK, known for its warm tones, durability, and affordability. It is available in both red and white oak varieties.

b. Walnut: Walnut wood flooring adds a touch of luxury to your bedroom with its rich chocolate-brown colour and unique grain patterns. It is a durable and robust choice, but it can be more expensive than oak.

c. Maple: Maple is a light-coloured wood species with a subtle grain pattern. It is an excellent choice for those looking for a clean, modern look in their bedroom. However, it is less durable than oak and walnut.

d. Exotic Wood Species: You can also explore exotic wood species like teak, iroko, or jatoba for a unique look in your bedroom. These species can be more expensive and harder to source.

Choose the right wood finish.

Wood finishes not only enhance the appearance of your wood flooring but also protect it from wear and tear. Here are some common finishes to consider:

a. Lacquered: A lacquered finish provides a glossy, smooth surface that is easy to clean and maintain. It also offers excellent protection against scratches and spills.

b. Oiled: An oiled finish enhances the natural grain of the wood and provides a matte appearance. It requires more maintenance than a lacquered finish but allows for easy spot repairs.

c. Brushed and Oiled: This finish combines the benefits of both brushing and oiling. The brushing process highlights the wood grain, while the oiling protects the floor and adds a matte finish.

Select the installation method.

There are three primary methods for installing wood flooring:

a. Nail-down: This method involves nailing the wood planks directly to the subfloor. It is suitable for solid wood flooring and requires a wooden subfloor.

b. Glue-down: In this method, the wood planks are glued to the subfloor, making it ideal for both solid and engineered wood flooring.

c. Floating: Floating installation is the most versatile method as it does not require the wood planks to be fixed to the subfloor. It is suitable for engineered wood and laminate flooring.

Consider Underfloor Heating Compatibility

Underfloor heating has become increasingly popular in the UK, as it provides efficient and even heat distribution throughout a room. When choosing wood flooring for your bedroom, ensure that it is compatible with underfloor heating systems.

a. Engineered Wood Flooring: Engineered wood flooring is the best choice for underfloor heating, as its multi-layer construction allows for better heat distribution and is less prone to warping.

b. Solid Wood Flooring: Solid wood flooring is generally not recommended for underfloor heating due to its sensitivity to temperature changes. However, if you must use solid wood flooring, opt for a species with high dimensional stability, like oak or walnut, and ensure that the heating system is well regulated.

Evaluate your budget.

Wood flooring can vary significantly in price depending on the type, species, and finish. Set a realistic budget for your project, keeping in mind that quality flooring is a long-term investment that will enhance the value of your home. Engineered wood and laminate flooring tend to be more affordable than solid wood flooring but may not have the same longevity.

Maintenance and Care

Proper care and maintenance will prolong the life of your wood flooring and keep it looking pristine. Here are some maintenance tips:

a. Regular Cleaning: Sweep or vacuum your floors regularly to remove dirt and dust. Use a damp mop with a mild cleaner designed for wood flooring to clean spills and stains.

b. Prevent Scratches: Place felt pads under furniture legs and use rugs or mats in high-traffic areas to minimise the risk of scratches.

c. Refinishing: Solid wood flooring can be sanded and refinished multiple times, allowing you to restore its appearance and change the finish if desired. Engineered wood flooring can also be refinished, but the number of times depends on the thickness of the hardwood veneer.

d. Repair Damaged Planks: Replace damaged planks promptly to prevent further damage to the surrounding area.

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Conclusion

Selecting the ideal wood flooring for your bedroom in the UK is a balance between aesthetics, functionality, and budget. By understanding the different types of wood flooring, species, finishes, and installation methods, you can make an informed decision that will result in a beautiful and comfortable bedroom that will last for years to come.