A Comprehensive Guide to Choosing the Right Flooring for Your Region
When it comes to renovating or building a new space, one of the most critical decisions you'll make is choosing the right flooring. Flooring not only contributes to the aesthetics of a room, it also affects functionality and comfort. However, the best flooring options can vary significantly based on your geographical location. Factors such as climate, humidity and regional trends play crucial roles in determining which flooring materials will perform best in your home. In this blog, we’ll explore how to select flooring that’s suitable for your region, ensuring that your investment lasts for years to come.
1. Understanding Your Climate
Floors for warm and humid regions
If you live in areas like North Queensland, Northern Territory or Western Australia, the humidity can be a significant factor in your flooring choice. Select materials that are resistant to moisture to ensure longevity of your new flooring.
Australian Select Timbers has two stunning Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP) collections. This flooring is waterproof and easy to maintain. Vinyl flooring mimics the look of timber flooring and is suitable for high moisture areas and areas where there is higher humidity.
Engineered timber flooring is another excellent choice for humid climates as it is more resistant to humidity than solid hardwood. This is due to its layered construction which helps to mitigate the effects of moisture in the wood. While engineered timber is not entirely waterproof, it can handle everyday spills and moderate humidity without compromising its structural integrity. Solid timber, on the other hand, is more susceptible to swelling, warping and buckling when exposed to moisture.
Flooring for cool and dry regions
For homeowners in places like Tasmania and Southern parts of New South Wales, insulation and warmth are key considerations. Recommended flooring options for colder temperatures include engineered timber flooring or other flooring options suited to underfloor heating.
Engineered timber offers great natural insulation and a timeless look, whilst adding excellent value to your home.
Radiant Heating Compatible Flooring: If you enjoy hard flooring as opposed to carpet, but want to keep warm, consider installing radiant heating systems beneath the flooring. Australian Select Timbers has a wide offering of flooring that is compatible with under floor heating.
Reach out to our team or nearest stockist if you are not sure what flooring is compatible.
Flooring for temperate regions
Areas with moderate climates, such as parts of Victoria, Coastal New South Wales and South Australia are spoilt for choice with a wide range of flooring to choose from that will perform well in their area. For temperate regions, engineered hardwood, luxury vinyl flooring and laminate flooring are all good choices due to their stability in both hot and cold conditions. These materials are less likely to expand or contract with temperature changes, making them versatile options for homes in areas with moderate climate fluctuations.
2. Regional Trends and Aesthetics
Beyond climate, regional design trends can also influence your flooring choice. Consider what’s popular in your area:
Rustic finishes: In rural areas, rustic timber flooring is often a fan favourite for its natural, homestyle or country feel.
Our Hickory Classique and Hickory Homestead flooring are the perfect choice for a farmhouse or country core interior.
Modern Minimalism: Urban settings may lean towards sleek, minimalistic options.
Our Cabella Oak flooring - The crisp clean boards of this AB graded American Oak collection compliment minimalistic interiors beautifully.
3. Lifestyle Considerations
Your lifestyle also plays a crucial role in flooring selection.
Do you have pets? If so, consider scratch-resistant and easy-to-clean options like luxury vinyl or laminate flooring.
Our collection of water resistant, easy to clean Gencore+ Laminate is an excellent pet friendly choice for your new flooring and is available in a wide range of colours to suit all styles.
Is your home a high-traffic area? Durable flooring like laminate, hybrid flooring or vinyl that can withstand heavy foot traffic is a popular choice to provide longevity and is low maintenance.
4. Maintenance and Durability
Different materials come with varying maintenance requirements. Consider how much time and effort you’re willing to invest.
Low maintenance: Vinyl, hybrid and laminate flooring require minimal upkeep and are easy to clean.
Medium maintenance: Engineered timber flooring requires regular cleaning and occasional refreshing. Check out our cleaning and maintenance products to keep your new timber flooring feel fresh for many years to come.
5. Cost
Finally, consider your budget. Prices can vary by region due to local availability and labour costs. While it’s tempting to choose the cheapest option, remember that investing in quality flooring can save you money in the long run through durability and lower maintenance costs.
Conclusion
Choosing the right flooring for your region is essential for both aesthetics and functionality. By considering your local climate, lifestyle, regional trends, maintenance needs and budget, you can make an informed decision that not only enhances the beauty of your home, but also stands the test of time. Whether you opt for the warmth of timber or the versatility of luxury vinyl, the right flooring will provide comfort and style for years to come.
