Step out in style: choose the right wood floor

Solid wood or laminate? Here's your guide to choosing your next wooden floor.
Ad Feature by Stories Flooring
Published 4th Dec 2018, 14:06 BST
Updated 19th May 2021, 09:55 BST
Solid wood brings natural beauty right into the home, with woods such as oak, maple, acacia and walnut.Solid wood brings natural beauty right into the home, with woods such as oak, maple, acacia and walnut.
Solid wood brings natural beauty right into the home, with woods such as oak, maple, acacia and walnut.

When it comes to making a style statement in our homes, we might think of a lick of paint or some new furnishings.

But the kind of flooring we choose really can transform a room.

Wood floors bring a natural feel to a room: both durable and easy to maintain, they’ve soared in popularity down the years.

Engineered wood comes in a wide variety of colour options, from dark walnut to pale oak and can be finished in a range of finishes to give a lacquered, burnt, distressed or hand-finished look.Engineered wood comes in a wide variety of colour options, from dark walnut to pale oak and can be finished in a range of finishes to give a lacquered, burnt, distressed or hand-finished look.
Engineered wood comes in a wide variety of colour options, from dark walnut to pale oak and can be finished in a range of finishes to give a lacquered, burnt, distressed or hand-finished look.

Technology is changing all the time, and there are different styles, finishes and textures to choose from.

We spoke to flooring specialists Stories Flooring to guide you through the right flooring for you.

Engineered wood

What is it? Engineered wood flooring is made up of several layers of plywood stuck together to create a really sturdy floor.

What’s the advantage? It offers the look and warm feel of a real wood, while there’s no need for waxing, oiling or polishing like you might for a solid timber floor. It designed to be resistant to changing temperatures and don’t dent or bulge easily.

What are the options? Engineered wood comes in a wide variety of colour options, from dark walnut to pale oak and can be finished in a range of finishes to give a lacquered, burnt, distressed or hand-finished look.

Why choose it? Engineered wood is a great cost effective option if you want an easy to care for high quality floor, with the natural style of wood and lots of different colour options.

Solid wood

What is it? Solid wood flooring is made of several planks of hardwood – some up to three quarters of an inch thick - that are cut to the right width, length and thickness.

What’s the advantage? The wood is dried in a kiln to toughen up the wood and make it extremely durable. It can withstand lots of bumps and heavy wear, and can be sanded and treated to extend its life and create a whole new look.

What are the options? For something a little different Danish specialists Junckers flooring comes in wide range of designs including two-strip flooring, Herringbone flooring, pattern flooring, hardwood plank flooring, coloured hardwood flooring and textured hardwood flooring.

Why choose it? Solid wood brings natural beauty right into the home, with woods such as oak, maple, acacia and walnut. It’s an impressive style statement that will last for years to come.

Laminate

What is it? Laminate flooring is made from multiple layers with an HDF core layer. The top layer features high-end printing technology to recreate the natural beauty of real wood or stone. The result is a really beautiful floor that looks good but is a lot more affordable.

What’s the advantage? Laminate floors are tough, thanks to the durable protective layer used on the floor surface. They are resistant to scratches, dents, heavy knocks and impact of falling objects. As a result, you’ll find them a great addition to areas that see heavy traffic.

What are the options? Laminate floors come in a wide range of shades, patterns and textures – you could even choose leather or stone effect. So it’s easy to find the right floor to match your style.

Why choose it? Laminate is a great option if you have pets or young children. It’s easy to clean and care for, durable and affordable.

Not keen on a wood floor? Stories Flooring also specialises in stunning Amtico tiles, luxurious Karndean vinyl flooring and carpets.

Trade prices mean there’s up to 70 per cent off RRP, and a price match guarantee means you’re bound to get a good deal.

Have a look around the showroom at Wortley Business Park, Amberley Road, Leeds or browse online at https://storiesflooring.co.uk/.