Common floor types
Imago Interiors can advise you on floor types and floor covering options.
Below are some of the more common flooring types:
Carpet
Carpet is available in a wide variety of styles, colours and varieties.
Some carpet types in order of desirability include:
- 100% Wool carpet - wears well and is flame resistant.
- A wool/synthetic blend - is not as soft as pure wool, but is a cheaper option than 100% wool.
- Nylon carpet - is durable and can be treated for stains.
We do not recommend polypropylene carpet because even though it is relatively cheap and durable, it is not flame resistant.
Make sure that the carpet you select is hardwearing so as to support the level of traffic it will get in its lifetime.
When purchasing, remember that carpet is usually not sold not by the square metre but rather by the 3.66m wide broadloom metre.
Timber
A timber floor covering is timeless, hard wearing and easy to maintain.
There is nothing quite like the look and feel of hardwood flooring.
There are several types of timber to choose from, but hardwood is generally the preferred option.
Timber laminate / parquetry
Consumer obsession with laminate is unprecedented.
Any type of wood grain and colour can be laminated and made into easily assembled pieces to create a floor.
Comes in a wide range of timber effects.
It is strong and hard wearing and can be installed over many surfaces.
Cork Floors
Cork is suitable to use in both wet and dry areas.
It is warm under feet and has a cushioning effect on feet, knees and backs.
It also has good thermal and acoustic insulating properties.
Some of the benefits include low maintenance and excellent wearing characteristics.
Cork flooring is eco-friendly and is a renewable resource.
Natural Flooring
Natural Flooring
One of the most popular choices is Sisal which is derived from the Sisal plant.
It is available over in 30 colours and styles and is both elegant and durable with the added benefit that it feels soft underfoot.
Tiles
Tiles come in many varieties, colours and styles and have many benefits including resilience to lots of traffic.
Cermic, porcelain and marble are well known types.
Tiles are generally easy to keep clean and are especially resistant to both the heat and water.
But take care, they can be slippery.
That is why it is a good idea to use non slip tiles in a bathroom setting.
Vinyl tiles
Vinyl tiles are available in many different colors and styles and is fairly inexpensive and easy to install.
Bear in mind that the final look may not be as good as some of the other options.
In the end though, vinyl Flooring is as economical as it gets.
