Solid wood flooring has been around for centuries, originating as chunky beams and rough-sawn planks that were a welcome replacement for dirt floors. With an impressive evolution to the high-performing modern wooden flooring in NZ, these natural products have a rich history of refining handcrafting techniques into the art of geometric patterns, stains and finishes.
While completing interior design milestones, wooden floor options often fell out of favour. Then, hardwood floors saw renewed interest again. But why such varying levels of popularity?
Beauty and costs: Two distinctive sides of wooden flooring in NZ
With its enduring charm of grain patterns and rich character, solid wood always had a ‘frightening’ price tag. It could not continue as the preferred choice when cheaper composite and synthetic flooring materials became commonly available.
Of course, these alternatives were no match for the authenticity and elegance of hardwood. They mostly had a flimsier and more tacky or plasticky feel. But cost is often a crucial factor when making flooring decisions, just as the overall resistance of the material to fire, water and traffic. This is why many homeowners bet on laminate and vinyl products over wooden flooring in NZ as more affordable options.
Wood is an eco-friendly and healthy flooring material
Wood is one of the few naturally renewable materials used for flooring. It is unlikely to contain toxic chemicals or emit harmful contaminants that become part of household dust to cause or aggravate respiratory issues.
That’s why wooden flooring in NZ can be your healthiest upgrade. But manufacturing practices and factory finish options vary, so pay attention to Quality and Environmental Certifications when looking for eco-friendly flooring that doesn’t wreak havoc on indoor air quality.
Versatility and long-term performance
You can’t go wrong with wooden flooring in NZ to bring out the historic charm of an older house or complement the aesthetics of a space without clashing with the existing style. The appeal and durability of wood can add value to your home for decades, regardless of the changing trends. Additionally, you can get multiple sandings and refinishes out of hardwood flooring products to prolong their lifespan and deal with stains, scratches or scuffs.
Disadvantages of wooden flooring in NZ
The natural instability of wood may pertain to modern products less, given the latest wood flooring treatments and installation techniques. However, the common hardwood disadvantages include:
Costly and time-consuming installation
Susceptibility to UV damage, scratching, denting and scuffing
Sensitivity to humidity and temperature changes
Bothersome refinishing and maintenance
Risks of permanent damage if heavy objects are dropped
Since wood’s structural integrity and lasting benefits may be compromised by excess moisture or water exposure, spills should be wiped up instantly. One of the biggest disadvantages of wooden flooring in NZ is its tendency to soak up water and then swell, warp or fall victim to mould. This is why natural wood isn’t a reasonable choice for busy family households or places with frequent or seasonal fluctuations in temperature and humidity.
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