The most common types of floors and their differences
Choosing flooring for your home can be tricky, as there are many different materials and installation methods. In this article, we'll look at three popular types of flooring: floating wood flooring, laminate flooring, and solid flooring. We will discuss their characteristics, installation methods, advantages and disadvantages, using some statistical data.
Laying flooring can be differently challenging depending on the type of flooring you choose.
Floating wooden floor: Quick and easy to install, natural look, but more susceptible to moisture.
Laminate flooring: Easy to install, scratch resistant, cheaper but less authentic.
Solid floor: Requires professional installation, very durable and stable, but difficult to install and maintain.
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Wooden floating floor
An expensive material, but it will reward you with a luxurious and very pleasant look and feel. Installation is as easy as with laminate flooring. Floating wood flooring is made from laminated wood or solid wood. The top layer is hardwood, which gives it a natural and warm look. This flooring looks authentic and adds a sense of luxury and comfort to the space. Floating wood flooring is laid without being firmly fixed to the subfloor. The individual planks are joined using a click system, which allows for easy joining and installation. The floor is laid on a pad that reduces noise and improves walking comfort. The underlay also smooths out minor unevenness in the subfloor.
According to statistics from 2024, wood flooring accounts for about 20% of the flooring market in Europe. The main advantages include simple and quick installation, which can be handled even by a less experienced DIYer. It can be laid over existing floors as long as they are level and stable. Dismantling and moving to another location is also possible, which is practical when moving. The disadvantage is its susceptibility to moisture, which can lead to warping, so it is not suitable for wet areas such as bathrooms. It requires regular maintenance such as sanding and varnishing to maintain its appearance.
- Material and Appearance:
- Floating wooden flooring is often made of laminated wood or solid wood. The top layer is hardwood, which provides a natural and warm look.
- This floor looks authentic and adds a feeling of luxury and comfort to the space.
- Installation:
- Floating wooden flooring is laid without being firmly fixed to the subfloor. The individual boards are connected to each other using a click system, which allows for easy joining and assembly.
- The floor is laid on a pad that reduces noise and improves walking comfort. The pad also smooths out minor unevenness in the subfloor.
- Advantages:
- Simple and quick installation that even the less experienced DIYer can handle.
- It can be installed on existing floors as long as they are level and stable.
- Can be disassembled and moved to another location, which is practical when moving.
- Disadvantages:
- Susceptible to moisture, which can lead to deformations. It is therefore not suitable for rooms with high humidity, such as bathrooms.
- It requires regular maintenance such as sanding and varnishing to maintain its appearance.
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Laminate floating floor
The cheapest solution for your floor. The price of laminate flooring is one third that of wood flooring. Installation is also easy and therefore the most cost-effective. However, it won't feel or look the same as wood.
Laminate flooring is made of several layers, with the top layer being decorative and imitating wood, stone or other materials. It is a more affordable alternative to wooden flooring. It provides a large choice of patterns and colours, allowing you to adapt the floor to the style of the interior. Installing laminate flooring is similar to floating wood flooring. It uses a click system which ensures that the individual boards are firmly connected. Laminate flooring is also laid on a backing that reduces noise and improves walking comfort.
According to 2024 data, laminate flooring accounts for up to 55% of the flooring market in Europe, making it the most popular choice among consumers. Laminate flooring is scratch and stain resistant, making it suitable for households with children or pets. It is low maintenance, just vacuum and mop regularly, and is more affordable than wood flooring. The downside is that laminate flooring can look less natural than real wood. Despite modern technology, it is still possible to tell the difference. It is not as water resistant as some other types of flooring, so it is not suitable for wet rooms.
- Material and Appearance:
- Laminate flooring is made of several layers, with the top layer being decorative and imitating wood, stone or other materials. It is a more affordable alternative to wooden flooring.
- It provides a large choice of patterns and colours, allowing you to adapt the floor to the style of the interior.
- Installation:
- The installation of laminate flooring is very similar to floating wooden flooring. It uses a click system that ensures that the individual boards are firmly connected.
- Laminate flooring is also laid on a backing that reduces noise and improves walking comfort.
- Advantages:
- Laminate flooring is scratch and stain resistant, making it suitable for households with children or pets.
- It is low maintenance, just vacuum and wipe it regularly.
- More affordable than wooden flooring.
- Disadvantages:
- Laminate flooring can look less natural than real wood. Despite modern technology, it is still possible to tell the difference.
- It is not as water-resistant as some other types of flooring, so it is not suitable for rooms with high humidity.
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Solid (glued) floor
Gluing is a traditional method of laying floors that is considered a "forever" solution. It is the most cost-effective but also the most stable way of laying floors.
The solid floor can be made of solid wood, ceramic, stone or vinyl. Each of these materials has its own characteristics and provides a different look. This flooring provides a very strong and stable surface that can last for decades. Installing solid flooring requires the use of adhesive, nails or screws to attach it firmly to the subfloor. This process is more difficult and often requires professional help. In the case of hardwood flooring, installation may also involve sanding and refinishing, which adds time and cost to the project.
According to the 2024 flooring market, solid wood flooring is chosen by about 15% of customers, while ceramic and stone flooring account for about 10%. Solid wood flooring is a very durable and long-term investment. It is ideal for high traffic locations and can increase property values. It provides a stable structure that is less prone to movement or warping compared to floating floors. The downside is that it is difficult and time-consuming to install, often requiring a professional. It requires precise subfloor preparation to ensure long-term floor stability and is less flexible for renovations or moves as it is rigidly fixed to the subfloor.
- Material and Appearance:
- The solid floor can be made of solid wood, ceramic, stone or vinyl. Each of these materials provides a different look and characteristics.
- This flooring provides a very strong and stable surface that can last for decades.
- Installation:
- Installation of solid flooring requires the use of adhesive, nails or screws to attach it firmly to the subfloor. This process is more difficult and often requires professional help.
- In the case of wood flooring, the installation may also include sanding and varnishing, which adds time and cost to the project.
- Advantages:
- A solid floor is a very durable and long-term investment. It is ideal for high traffic locations and can increase the value of a property.
- It provides a stable structure that is less susceptible to movement or deformation compared to floating floors.
- Disadvantages:
- A challenging and time-consuming installation that often requires a specialist.
- It requires precise subfloor preparation to ensure long-term floor stability.
- Less flexible for renovations or relocations because it is firmly fixed to the substrate.
The process of flooring work
Flooring work is an integral part of the construction or renovation of the interior. Quality flooring is the basis for the aesthetic appearance and functionality of any space. This article focuses on the process of flooring work, from subfloor preparation to final completion. We will discuss the different steps, techniques and materials that are part of this complex process.
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Preparation of the Substrate
The first and key step in laying the floor is the preparation of the subfloor. The subfloor must be clean, level, dry and firm. Unevenness and dirt can adversely affect the final appearance and durability of the floor.
- Cleaning: removing dust, dirt and grease from the substrate. In the case of renovation, the old floor is often dismantled, which is the most expensive process when replacing glued floors in particular
- Levelling: if the substrate is not level, self-levelling screeds are used. These materials can even out unevenness up to a few centimetres.
- Repairing cracks and holes: larger cracks and holes are repaired using special repair compounds.
According to statistics, 70% of flooring problems are caused by improper subfloor preparation. Therefore, this phase is critical to the success of the entire project.
Selection and Preparation of Materials
Choosing the right material is another important step. Each type of flooring (wood, laminate, vinyl, ceramic) has its own specifics and requires different installation techniques.
- Wooden floors: acclimatisation is important for solid wood and parquet. The wood should be stored in the room where it will be laid for at least 48 hours before installation to allow it to adjust to local humidity and temperature conditions.
- Laminate flooring: Laminate is less demanding to acclimatise to, but even here it is a good idea to observe a 24-hour adjustment period.
- Ceramic and stone paving: the material must be thoroughly inspected for cracks and damage before installation.
Installing Flooring
The installation process depends on the type of flooring. Each type has its specific techniques and tools.
- Wood and laminate flooring: these floors are often installed using the floating method, where individual boards are joined together using a click system. An insulating underlay is laid under the floor to reduce noise and improve comfort. A floating floor is not actually anchored anywhere, which is why it is called floating.
- Ceramic and stone paving: paving is installed using paving adhesive. The tiles are placed in the adhesive and then leveled. After installation, the joints are filled with grout.
- Vinyl flooring: vinyl can be self-adhesive or installed with a special adhesive. This material is flexible and water resistant, making it ideal for kitchens and bathrooms.
According to market research, floating floors are most popular in residential projects, accounting for approximately 55% of new installations.
Finishing
Once the floor is installed, finishing work follows, which includes installation of the skirting boards, sealing and final cleaning.
- Installation of mouldings: mouldings are installed along the walls to cover expansion joints and give the room a clean look.
- Sealing: some types of flooring, especially wood, may require sealing or oiling to protect the surface.
- Cleaning: after installation and finishing, it is important to thoroughly clean the new floor to remove any residual adhesive, dust and other debris.
Factors affecting the price of flooring work
Type and quality of material
The price of flooring materials is one of the main factors influencing the overall cost. The price of flooring work can fluctuate significantly depending on various factors. These factors include the choice of material, the complexity of the installation, the condition of the subfloor and the location. All of these affect the price of flooring work so that you have a better idea of the costs associated with this investment.
Type of material and its effect on price
The material of the flooring is one of the main factors influencing the price. The differences in price between different types of materials can be considerable.
- Wood flooring: solid wood is often the most expensive choice, with prices ranging between €40 and €100 per square metre. Parquet and laminated wood are cheaper alternatives, with prices ranging from €20 to €50 per square metre.
- Laminate flooring: laminate is more affordable, with average prices ranging from €10 to €30 per square metre.
- Vinyl flooring: vinyl is also affordable, with prices ranging from €15 to €35 per square metre, depending on quality and design.
- Ceramic and stone paving: these materials can be expensive, especially if they are special or luxury types of stone, with prices ranging from €20 to €80 per square metre.
Installation complexity
The installation process and techniques also affect the overall cost. More complex installations require more time, special tools and experience, which increases the price.
- Floating floors: installing floating floors is relatively easy and quick, which reduces labour costs. The cost of installation is around €5 to €15 per square metre.
- Glued floors: the installation of floors that require gluing, such as ceramic tiles, is more difficult and time-consuming, with installation prices ranging from €15 to €30 per square metre.
- Installation of parquet and solid wood: These floors often require precision work and sometimes sanding and varnishing after installation, which adds up to €20 to €50 per square metre.
- Intricate design: complicated designs, such as herringbone or mosaic, require more time and precision, which increases costs.
- Detailing and finishing: Installation of skirting, transition mouldings and other finishing work add to the overall cost.
Condition of the substrate
Substrate preparation is critical to the success of the overall project and can significantly affect the overall cost.
- Leveling the substrate: If the subfloor is uneven, the use of self-levelling trowels or other levelling materials may be necessary. The price can range from €5 to €15 per square metre.
- Repairing damage: repairing cracks, holes or other damage can increase the cost to between €10 and €20 per square metre.
- Removing the old floor: If the old floor needs to be removed, the cost of this work can be between €5 and €10 per square metre.
Room size and shape
The size and shape of the room also affect the price:
- Large areas: larger rooms can bring economies of scale, but require more materials and labour.
- Complicated shapes: rooms with lots of niches, corners and irregular shapes can increase labour intensity and therefore costs.
Region and availability of services
In the construction industry, it is natural that work in large cities is more expensive than in smaller communities. Geographical location can therefore also affect the price:
- Location:Prices may vary depending on regional differences in labour and material costs. Urban areas often have higher prices than rural areas.
- Availability of materials: the import of specific materials and often their scarcity can increase the price.
Experience and expertise of the flooring engineer
The quality and experience of the flooring contractor has an impact on the overall cost:
- Quality of Work: Experienced flooring contractors may charge higher prices, but they ensure better quality results and less likelihood of future problems.
- Speed and efficiency: professionals can get the job done more efficiently, which can reduce time costs.
Flooring work is a complex process that involves careful preparation, the right choice of materials and expert installation. The cost of this work is influenced by many factors, including the type and quality of materials, the condition of the subfloor, the size and shape of the room, the labour requirements, the region and the experience of the flooring contractor. When planning flooring work, it is important to consider all of these factors in order to achieve a quality and durable result within budget.
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The procedure of gluing the wooden floor:
- Surface preparation: the substrate must be clean, dry and level. Remove all old coatings, adhesives and dirt. If necessary, smooth out unevenness of the substrate.
- Applying the adhesive: Apply an adhesive suitable for the type of wood and the conditions of use to the substrate. Follow the adhesive manufacturer's instructions.
- Laying the parquet: Lay the parquet one row at a time, making sure that there are even gaps between them. Apply glue to the underside of the parquet and press it firmly against the subfloor.
- Pushing in the parquet: After gluing in the parquet, push it in with a heavy object such as a roller or brick boards. Leave the parquet pressed in this way for 24 hours while the glue dries completely.
- Sanding: after the glue has dried, sand the parquet with sandpaper of different grits to achieve a smooth and even surface.
- Applying the finish: Apply a finish such as varnish, oil or wax to the parquet. Follow the coating manufacturer's instructions.
Installation of dry flooring over sub-floor and gypsum fibreboard (Rigips)
Installation of dry flooring over gypsum and gypsum fibre boards (Rigips) is a popular method of floor leveling and insulation in new buildings and renovations. This method has several advantages over conventional wet anhydrite floors, such as:
Advantages of dry floor installation:
- Speed and ease of installation: dry flooring is much quicker and easier to install than wet anhydrite floors. No concrete is required and the floor is immediately dry and ready for flooring after installation.
- Low humidity: a dry floor does not bring any moisture into the interior, which is especially important in new buildings where care must be taken to ensure that the building dries out quickly.
- Thermal and acoustic insulation: underfill and gypsum fibre boards (Rigips) provide good thermal and acoustic insulation, thus contributing to energy savings and living comfort.
- Suitable for underfloor heating: dry flooring is ideal for underfloor heating because the liapor allows the heat to be distributed evenly over the entire floor surface.
- Possibility of installing wiring: water, heating and electricity can be installed in the space between the gypsum board and the gypsum fibreboard (Rigips).
- High load-bearing capacity: the dry floor has a high load-bearing capacity and is load-resistant.
Dry floor installation procedure:
- Preparation of the substrate: The substrate must be clean, dry and level. If necessary, level unevenness of the substrate with self-levelling compound.
- Laying the waterproofing membrane: Lay a waterproofing membrane on the subfloor to prevent moisture from penetrating into the floor. An insulating strip must be glued to the sides of the walls at the height of the boards because of the sound transmission between the floor and the surrounding structures.
- Spread the floor underlay: place the underlay on the waterproofing membrane and spread it evenly over the entire floor area. The thickness of the underfloor layer should correspond to the required thermal and acoustic insulation.
- Laying the separation foil: Lay a separation foil on the gypsum board to prevent the dust from the gypsum board from penetrating into the gypsum fibreboard (Rigips).
- Placing gypsum fibre boards (Rigips): place the gypsum fibre boards (Rigips) in two layers, placing the boards in the second layer "bond" style with the boards in the first layer. Fix the boards with screws into the metal profiles.
- Joining the boards: fill the joints between the gypsum fibre boards (Rigips) with putty and tape them with mesh tape.
- Surface Sanding: After the sealer has dried, sand the floor surface with a spatula or sandpaper.
- Laying the floor covering: you can lay any floor covering on the dry floor, such as laminate, parquet, tiles, carpet or vinyl.
Tips for dry floor installation:
- Read the instructions of the manufacturer of the gypsum and gypsum fibreboard (Rigips) before starting the installation.
- Use quality materials and tools.
- Work in a well-ventilated area.
- Make sure you follow the safety instructions.
- If you are unsure of the procedure, contact a professional flooring specialist.
Price of dry floor installation:
The price of dry floor installation varies depending on the size of the area, the thickness of the layer of lyapore and the type of material used.
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Restoration of old parquet: sanding, sealing and varnishing of parquet friezes
Restoring old parquet floors is a great way to breathe new life into your floors and save money compared to replacing them with new ones. Sanding, sealing and refinishing parquet friezes can remove scratches, dents and other damage and give your floor a beautiful and shiny appearance.
The procedure for restoring old parquet floors:
- Floor preparation: before sanding, it is important to remove all furniture and any other objects from the floor. Clean the floor thoroughly of dust and dirt.
- Sanding: Sand the parquet with different grits of sandpaper to remove old paint, scratches and dents. Start with coarse sandpaper and gradually work your way up to finer paper.
- Sealing: apply sealant to the joints and holes in the parquet and allow it to dry. Once dry, sand the sealant with sandpaper to achieve a smooth surface.
- Applying the first coat of varnish: Apply the first coat of varnish to the parquet according to the manufacturer's instructions. Make sure to cover the entire floor area evenly.
- Grinding between coats: After the first coat of varnish has dried, lightly sand the floor with sandpaper to remove unevenness and improve the adhesion of the second coat.
- Applying the second coat of varnish: Apply a second coat of varnish to the parquet and allow it to dry completely.
Tips for restoring old parquet floors:
- Before sanding, read the sandpaper and varnish manufacturer's instructions.
- Use quality materials and tools.
- Work in a well-ventilated area.
- Make sure you follow the safety instructions.
- If you are unsure about the procedure, contact a professional flooring specialist.
Benefits of restoring old parquet floors:
- Gives the floor a new and elegant look
- Extends the life of the floor
- Protects the floor from damage
- Reduces noise from steps
- It is more environmentally friendly than replacing parquet with new
Disadvantages of restoring old parquet:
- It can be challenging and time-consuming work
- Requires quality materials and tools
- The price of professional services can be high
- Not all parquet floors can be restored
Conclusion:
Restoring old parquet floors is a great way to breathe new life into your floors and save money. If you have old parquet floors that are damaged but in good condition, restoration may be the perfect solution for you.
Important: If you decide to restore the parquet yourself, it is important that you read the manufacturer's instructions for sandpaper and varnish and that you follow the safety instructions. If you are unsure of the procedure, contact a professional flooring specialist.
Wood floor treatment:
Regular treatment of wooden flooring is important to protect it from damage and preserve its beauty.
Types of wood floor treatment:
- Varnish: Varnish gives the floor a glossy and durable finish. It is suitable for high traffic areas.
- Oil: Oil penetrates the wood and nourishes it. It gives the floor a natural look and satin sheen.
- Wax: Wax forms a protective layer on the floor surface. It is suitable for rustic and vintage floors.
The procedure for the treatment of wooden floors:
- Cleaning the floor: clean the floor thoroughly of dust and dirt.
- Sanding: If necessary, lightly sand the floor with sandpaper to remove old coatings and unevenness.
- Applying the finish: Apply the finish according to the manufacturer's instructions. Make sure to cover the entire floor area evenly.
- Drying: Allow the finish to dry completely before walking on the floor or placing furniture on it.
Tips for gluing and treating wood flooring:
- Read the parquet, glue and finish manufacturer's instructions before starting work.
- Use quality materials and tools.
- Work in a well-ventilated area.
- Make sure you follow the safety instructions.
- If you are unsure of the procedure, contact a professional flooring specialist.
Advantages of gluing and treating wood flooring:
- Gives the floor a new look and shine
- Protects the floor from damage
- Extends the life of the floor
- Improves thermal insulation of the floor
- Reduces noise from steps
Disadvantages of gluing and treatment of wood flooring:
- It can be challenging and time-consuming work
- Requires quality materials and tools
- It is important to follow the manufacturer's instructions and safety instructions
- The price of professional services can be high
Gluing new parquet friezes: step by step to a new floor
Bonding new parquet friezes is a great way to give your floor a beautiful and elegant look. This method is suitable for different types of parquet, such as oak, beech, maple and exotic woods.
The procedure for gluing parquet friezes:
Preparation of the substrate:
- Removing the old surface: remove the old floor, carpet or linoleum. Make sure the subfloor is clean, dry and level. If necessary, level unevenness of the subfloor with self-levelling compound.
- Applying the adhesive: Apply an adhesive suitable for the type of parquet flooring and the conditions of use to the subfloor. Follow the adhesive manufacturer's instructions.
Laying parquet:
- Start in the corner of the room: lay the first row of parquet friezes with an expansion joint between the wall and the floor. The expansion joint allows the floor to expand and contract depending on temperature and humidity.
- Fasten the locks: fasten the locks of the parquet friezes so that they fit tightly together.
- Continue laying parquet: Continue laying parquet friezes row by row until you have covered the entire floor area.
- Finish: Finally, fit the skirting boards and seal the expansion joints with silicone sealant.
Tips for gluing parquet friezes:
- Read the parquet and adhesive manufacturer's instructions before starting work.
- Use quality materials and tools.
- Work in a well-ventilated area.
- Make sure you follow the safety instructions.
- If you are unsure of the procedure, contact a professional flooring specialist.
Advantages of gluing parquet friezes:
- Gives the floor a beautiful and elegant look
- Extends the life of the floor
- Protects the floor from damage
- Reduces noise from steps
- Offers a wide range of colours, designs and materials
Disadvantages of gluing parquet friezes:
- It can be challenging and time-consuming work
- Requires quality materials and tools
- The price of professional services can be high
- It is important to follow the correct procedures to avoid damage to the parquet
Conclusion:
Gluing parquet friezes is a great way to give your floor a new and elegant look. If you're looking for a beautiful and durable floor that will last for many years, parquet frieze bonding is the perfect choice for you.
Important: If you decide to glue the parquet yourself, it is important that you read the parquet and glue manufacturer's instructions and follow the safety instructions. If you are unsure of the procedure, contact a professional flooring specialist.