Budget Timber flooring: An Economical Alternative To Hardwood Floors

Timber or wooden floors have gained significant growth of demand among home owners over the past few decades. Apart from the unmatched aesthetic angle it provides to a living space, the advantage of durability deserves special mention. Timber floors have a unique appeal, mainly due to the reason that every tree is different and timber sourced from a particular tree would exhibit a unique pattern.

Timber floors are timeless classics, but the key aspect for many home owners would be the practical advantages like choosing a flooring option that would be a long term investment. Given many benefits of a wooden flooring option, yet it does not work well in all circumstances, primarily due to the cost involved. There are few alternatives to hardwood flooring, also can be categorized as budget timber flooring.

Some Cost Effective Timber Floor Options Available

1. Engineered Wood Or Vinyl Planks

Also known as luxury vinyl planks, these are very innovative and sport a very similar look and feel of real hardwood. The most important advantage is that they are waterproof in nature, hence can be used in areas where moisture can be an issue, such as basements and kitchen area.

2. Wood-Look Tiles

These budget timber flooring tiles look very similar to hardwood and they are a waterproof option too. Their popularity has grown substantially over the past few years because these are available in various shades, styles and also provide a variety of textured surface choices. They are quite suitable for moist areas of the house, like bathrooms, kitchens or basements. One disadvantage is that the tiles feel cold in places having a cool climatic condition.

3. Laminated Floors

Also known as pergo floors, this type is the cheapest among the budget timber flooring options that we have here. They are floating in nature, which means they can be installed over concrete floors and also can be taken off easily. The most critical disadvantage is that they are not water-proof in nature, rather are rapid absorbers of moisture. There is a wide range of laminates available that vary in quality and pricing.

4. Bamboo Floors

A good alternative to hardwood flooring, bamboo floors are often confused with timber, however they are actually made of grass. These are engineered materials that are bound together with glue and are way less expensive than hardwood. Because of the engineered wood properties, they can be installed on top of concrete floors and sport a very versatile look. As a budget timber flooring option, bamboo floors are to a great extent show lesser durability when compared to other budget timber options. Some users have claimed it be softer that oak flooring materials. They are very prone to scratches and due to the surface texture, the scratches show quite prominently. Apart from this, they are known to be poor in water resistance.

5. Cork Floors

Another very good option is cork materials for budget timber flooring. It is quite popular as it is known for its great feel against the feet. They are also good shock absorbers, making them great for kitchen floors and also are anti-skid to certain extent. Apart from being an environment friendly material, they have good insulating and absorb sound quite well. The downside is that this material does not have varied colour choices.

It is very practical to think that no flooring option and each one have its disadvantages. Hence, while selecting budget timber flooring options, it is wise to consider the buyer’s specific needs and budget. A recent trend is also to use reclaimed timber which can be sourced from salvage yards at very affordable prices. Salvage materials are apt if an old house is being renovated.