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Main Benefits of Engineered Timber Flooring

Timeless Design and Lasting Durability with Terra Mater Engineered Floors

Engineered timber flooring has emerged as a preferred choice for Australian homeowners and businesses seeking beauty, durability, and sustainability. At Terra Mater Floors, we’re dedicated to offering a sophisticated range of premium flooring that effortlessly enhances any interior. Our collection spans from contemporary herringbone patterns to luxurious oak planks, each crafted to showcase unmatched texture, precision, and timeless elegance.

What is Engineered Timber Flooring?

Engineered timber flooring consists of a natural hardwood top layer bonded to multiple layers of plywood. This multi-layered structure ensures exceptional stability and resistance to warping or shrinking, making it particularly well-suited to Australia’s variable climate.

Interior designers also favour engineered timber for its versatility. It seamlessly blends with a wide range of aesthetics, from modern minimalism to traditional elegance. Terra Mater’s engineered timber flooring is available in Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane, Adelaide, and Perth.

Main Benefits of Engineered Timber Flooring Collections

  • Durable & Long-Lasting: Engineered oak wood is built to withstand daily wear and tear, offering longevity that can span a lifetime with proper care.
  • Effortless Maintenance: Its easy-to-clean surface and minimal maintenance needs make it a practical yet luxurious choice.
  • Eco-Conscious Design: Using sustainable plantation plywood, engineered timber flooring reduces the amount of hardwood required compared to solid timber, making it an environmentally sound option
  • Healthier Living: Our engineered timber flooring has low VOC levels, meaning it contains minimal amounts of volatile organic compounds that could affect indoor air quality. Its natural composition also attracts fewer allergens compared to other flooring types, creating a cleaner, healthier living environment.
  • Authentic Aesthetics: The natural wood grains, textures, and finishes of our oak timber flooring deliver a stunning, authentic look, perfect for both residential and commercial spaces.
  • Versatile Installation: Engineered boards can be installed using either the direct-stick or floating method, offering flexible installation options that save time and reduce the need for adhesives or nails. Depending on the chosen method, this approach makes the process more efficient and cost-effective.

Trending Colours and Finishes

Modern flooring trends emphasise natural tones and textures that connect us to the environment. Engineered oak flooring, with its adaptability and timeless appeal, remains a standout choice. Popular finishes range from whitewashed and blonde tones to earthy, natural hues, offering balance and harmony to any space. Rustic, matte, and natural finishes have become increasingly popular, highlighting the wood’s authentic textures and unique grain patterns. These finishes embrace natural imperfections, enhancing the material’s depth, character, and warmth.

Why Choose Terra Mater Floors?

Terra Mater Floors is committed to excellence in craftsmanship, sustainability, and customer service. Our collections cater to a wide range of preferences and budgets, from entry-level to premium offerings, ensuring there’s something for everyone.

  • Superior Quality and Durability: Our premium collections feature thick hardwood top layers that not only enhance the flooring’s durability but also ensure precise design execution, offering long-lasting beauty.
  • Stylish Versatility: With a wide selection of European oak, herringbone patterns, and diverse colour finishes, our engineered timber flooring seamlessly complements any aesthetic, from classic to contemporary.
  • Ethically Sourced and Sustainable: Our oak timber flooring is responsibly sourced, ensuring that every plank reflects our commitment to sustainability and eco-conscious design.
  • Nationwide Availability: Available in Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane, Adelaide, and Perth, Terra Mater’s engineered timber flooring ensures easy access across Australia’s key metropolitan areas and surrounding regions.
  • Comprehensive Warranties: Terra Mater offers a lifetime structural warranty and a 20-year residential wear warranty on all our engineered timber flooring, providing you with long-term peace of mind.
  • Exceptional Customer Service: Our dedicated team is committed to delivering outstanding service, ensuring a seamless experience from product selection to aftercare. We provide expert guidance and support every step of the way to guarantee your satisfaction with your Terra Mater flooring.

Contact us today to book an appointment at our Melbourne showroom. Our knowledgeable team is here to guide you in choosing the perfect timber flooring for your new build, home renovation, or business makeover. Don’t forget to order your free sample and experience the exceptional quality of Terra Mater floors for yourself.

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The Benefits Of Hybrid Flooring

Hybrid Flooring | ResiPlank Hybrid 977

What is Hybrid Flooring and the Benefits of Hybrid Flooring?

Hybrid flooring is the fastest-growing flooring option in Australia, whether it is to be used for homes or at commercial premises. The choice and options of Hybrid Flooring Perth flooring are immense and are also dictated by the market trends and practicality of use. As the name suggests, hybrid demonstrates quite well how it consists of several mixes of diverse elements that help to make it exceptional from other types of flooring.

What is Hybrid Flooring and what are they made of?

Hybrid flooring consists of waterproof resistance coating, which is innovatively designed to keep the floors in utmost superior quality for life. Hybrid flooring decor gives laminate finishing to create an improved floor that is not only durable from outside but provides clarity, exceptional protection from everyday wear with Acoustic Backing.

Our Hybrid Flooring range include ResiPlank Hybrid,  manufactured using a proprietary ‘co-extrusion’ technology, ResiPlank Hybrid has the most stable and waterproof core of any flooring worldwide. A big claim which is justified by test results and the skillset of our engineers when directed to develop a waterproof, stable flooring to meet everyday needs of everyday consumers. While our formula for ResiPlank Hybrid is a proprietary secret, in general terms it’s success is a result of blending specific stone powders and vinyl polymers together and then extruding as a continuous sheet of Rigid Core PVC.

Why Hybrid Flooring?

  • Water-Proof: ResiPlank Hybrid flooring is 100% waterproof, stands up to all spills and can be installed in wet areas such as bathrooms.
  • Low Maintenance: Our surface coating technology ensures no need for additional surface treatments following installation.
  • Environmentally Conscious: Being 100% physically, energetically and chemically recyclable or re-usable.
  • Acoustic Qualities: Excellent noise reduction properties and does not require additional underlay. Industry, leading, 6 Star rated.
  • Durable: ResiPlank Hybrid boards are extremely hard wearing and have HIGH IMPACT RESISTANCE, unlike wood or stone, ResiPlank Hybrid wont splinter, warp or crack
  • Quick and Easy to Install: All you need is a level, smooth, dry and dust-free subfloor. ResiPlank Hybrid can be fitted over most existing hard floor. ResiPlank Hybrid has been made with the best click system in the world 5G Välinge.
  • Compatible with Underfloor Heating: When used in conjunction with the installation instructions.
  • Comfort: Softer and warmer under foot than natural wood or stone flooring. Additional cushioning in the backing helps make ResiPlank Hybrid extremely comfortable even to sensitive feet.
  • Pet Friendly: From muddy paws to ‘accidents’- ResiPlank Hybrid repels anything your pet can throw at it, making life much easier
  • Lifetime Warranty: Backed by a Lifetime Structural Warranty- that’s how sure we are of ResiPlank Hybrid’s abilities.

What should you be aware of Hybrid Flooring?

Although Hybrid flooring is cheaper than Timber flooring, it is still expensive than Vinyl or Laminate flooring. UV sunlight fading or damage can occur and hence it is recommended to cover the windows so sunlight does not fall directly on to flooring. It is recommended to have protective pads fitted to all furniture and avoid dragging heavy furniture or equipment across flooring. Pets claws should be kept trimmed to avoid excessive scratching. 

Our Hybrid Flooring Collection: Our Hybrid Timber Flooring have High Definition Scanning and printing combined with embossing (texturing) which we have taken directly from real world timber products, results in a floorboard that you will struggle to distinguish from a real wooden product. Our main collection includes:

ResiPlank Hybrid 977 Summit Collection: The Summit Collection is a range 10 colours with a 7mm thick core and a board length of 1820mm. It is for those who need extra height or prefer the feel of a thicker board and like a long board appearance. 7mm is an extra heavy duty core but combined with our proprietary formula, the co-extrusion blend is one of the most dense compounds used in flooring anywhere in the world. 7mm is only the core thickness, not the total board thickness. It is the core that gives every board its inherent abilities to remain unaffected by wet conditions (under normal use circumstances).

ResiPlank Hybrid 855 Corsica Collection: The Corsica Collection is a range of 10 colours with a 6mm thick core. 6mm is an extra heavy duty core but combined with our proprietary formula, the co-extrusion blend is one of the most dense compounds used in flooring anywhere in the world. 6mm is only the core thickness, not the total board thickness. It is the core that gives every board its inherent abilities to remain unaffected by wet conditions (under normal use circumstances).

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Introducing Our ResiPlank Hybrid 705 Eternity Collection


Nothing injects warmth and personality into a home quite like timber flooring – it exudes a classic timelessness and offers functional performance. The new ResiPlank Hybrid Range – 705 Eternity Collection elevates the timber flooring market by offering an array of wood finishes inspired by the natural environment.

Design flexibility and choice

The 705 Eternity Collection celebrates the natural variation in tone and grain that is characteristic of natural timber. Featuring 8 classic oak grains, and 2 uniquely Australian species, Blackbutt and Spotted Gum. There truly are no limits to creating an aesthetic that reflects your personal style and brings classic sophistication to your home.

The new ResiPlank Hybrid Range – 705 Eternity Collection features  1820mm x 180mm x 7.0mm plank lengths with a 0.5mm wear layer and 5 Star Acoustic rating. The range joins our two existing collections, the 855 Corsica Collection and the 977 Summit Collection.

The 855 Corsica Collection features 1420mm x 225mm x 8.5mm plank lengths with a 0.5mm wear layer and 5 Star Acoustic rating, making it ideal for those looking for a wider and more durable option. The 977 Summit Collection features luxuriously oversized plank lengths with dimensions of 1820mm x 225mm x 9.7mm, a 0.7mm wear layer and 6 Star Acoustic rating, making it the premium choice for heavy traffic environments.

Superior and resilient performance 

Beyond aesthetics, the 705 Eternity Collection has been created with both function and design flexibility in mind – a house is a home after all. The collection offers a hybrid flooring solution that is low maintenance, 100% waterproof and comfortable underfoot. The heavy-duty composite core, alongside the super sound absorbent underlay, ensures the collection offers exceptional durability, resistance to wear and acoustic sound reduction.

Featuring micro-bevelled edges and manufactured using Co-extrusion technology, the ResiPlank Hybrid is resilient and superbly functional. It can be laid on a new subfloor or over existing hard floor covering with ease. The ResiPlank Collections will enhance your home with the perfect combination of luxury and low-maintenance durability.

Easy Installation

The Välinge 5G drop-lock system makes for quick and easy installation in a variety of contexts. Resiplank Rigid Core hybrid flooring can be laid on a new subfloor or over existing hard floor covering. There’s also the option to use the product with hydronic underfloor heating, the ultimate indulgence in cooler climates. All three collections come with a Lifetime Structure Guarantee for added peace of mind.

There’s no doubt that Australians have an affinity for nature – the new Resiplank Rigid Core Hybrid Range – 705 Eternity Collection allows you to welcome the natural tones and textures of timber flooring into your home without compromising on function.

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Hardwood Floors: Frequently Asked Questions

What are the benefits of hardwood floors?
Where do we begin?

– Stylish, versatile, timeless
– Durable
– Cost-effective
– Easy to clean and maintain
– Eco-friendly
– Allergy-friendly

For a more in-depth guide to the benefits of hardwood floors, check out our blog.

What’s the difference between solid wood floors and engineered wood floors, and which is right for me?
Solid hardwood floors are milled from a log as a solid piece of wood. Engineered hardwood flooring on the other hand, are manufactured with multiple cross layers of plywood with a thinner real wood top layer. Deciding what’s best for you depends on where you plan to install your floor as that can influence two main factors: moisture and traffic.

Solid hardwood floors are sensitive to moisture, humidity and significant temperature changes, in extreme cases the boards can expand causing cupping or buckling or shrink causing gaps between the boards. For this reason, solid hardwood is not recommended for bathrooms, laundries or basements. With engineered floors, their specific construction counteracts wood’s natural tendency to expand and contract, which means they’re more resistant to fluctuations in temperature and humidity and are resistant to gapping or warping.

Wood floors are susceptible to wear and tear over the course of their lifespan, but that can be rectified with sanding and refinishing. Some engineered floors have thinner veneer wear layers, which means they are unable to be sanded and refinished more than once (if at all) in comparison to solid wood floors which can undertake this process multiple times throughout their lifespan. The good news is, you can opt for an engineered floor with a thicker wear layer.

How do I protect hardwood floors from wear and tear?
Wear and tear is inevitable, but a number of preventative measures can be taken to maximise the appearance and durability of your floors.

– Use doormats or rugs at each entrance to prevent any moisture, dirt or any other damaging substances being brought in.

– Sweep, mop or vacuum regularly. By eliminating any dirt or debris you can avoid any potential scratches occurring.

– Avoid abrasive cleansers, corrosive chemicals and excessive water when cleaning your floor.

– Prevent scratches by using furniture pads where possible.

– Incorporate the use of area rugs in heavy traffic areas – i.e. entrances and hallways, living areas where children will play and pets will lie.

– When exposed to direct sunlight for long periods of time, hardwood floors can experience some discoloration. To avoid uneven discoloration, shuffle furniture and area rugs around regularly.

To learn more, read our blog Protect Your Hardwood Floors From Wear and Tear.

What is the best way to clean my floors?
Hardwood floors can be kept clean using a lightly bristled brush, an electro-static mop or a vacuum (with the beater bar off). Spills should be cleaned up immediately with paper towels, a cloth or a lightly damp mop. When it comes to stubborn stains or sticky residue, never use anything abrasive (steel wool, scourers) and avoid excessive water – so steam cleaners are a no no!

Why should I get my hardwood floors professionally installed, can’t I just do it myself?
 While installing your hardwood floors yourself isn’t impossible, it’s no easy feat either. Without the proper tools and know-how, a DIY approach can be disastrous and incur a greater cost than hiring a professional in the first place. After all, hardwood floors are an expensive material – if they get damaged they’re a lot more costly to replace than a can of paint or other materials!

If you decide to install floors yourself, there are several important things to consider:

– Is the subfloor flat and smooth?
– Are you installing hardwood over radiant heating?
– Have you acclimated the wood?
– Do you have the tools to check the moisture?
– Have you checked for defects or damages in the wood?
– Do you know how to centre a room, how much space should be left for expansion gaps and how to work around obstructions?
– Have you ordered extra materials to allow for waste and cuts?

If you’re unsure about any of the above, we recommend consulting a professional. While this will incur additional costs, when you take into account the time it will take you to install the floors, the tools you will need to rent, the extra material you may need to purchase if you run short, it’s much easier and less stressful to leave it to the professionals!

Do I opt for a factory-finished floor or a site-finished floor?
There are 2 main things to consider when deciding on a factory-finished floor or a site-finished floor: style and convenience. With a site-finished floor, you’re able to choose the finish applied which can impact the maintenance of the floor as well as the stain and sheen of the final product.

Because their finish is applied at the factory, factory-finished floors can be walked upon immediately after their installation – whereas site-finished floors require several days to let the finish dry which can hold up the moving in process. The installation of site-finished floors also result in more noise, dust and general disruption to your home. Another added benefit? Factory finished floors can come with more advanced finishes that aren’t achievable on site – including hand-scraping, smoking and deep bevel.

What types of finishes can I get on my floors?
If you decide to install a site-finished floor there are several types of finishes available including polyurethane, water-based UV, oil based, UV oil and gloss. With gloss finishes, there are 3 types including gloss, semi-gloss and matte. Gloss and semi-gloss offer more shine and will reflect more light, whereas a matte finish will offer the least shine and reflection of light.

Are you in the market for a new hardwood floor? The options are aplenty. At Terra Mater we can produce a one-of-a-kind floor to suit all your needs! Contact us today for more information or to speak to one of our team members about custom-designed floors.

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Main Benefits of Vinyl Flooring

Durable
Vinyl is extremely durable and holds up well to heavy foot traffic. If you’re looking for a family friendly floor, this is it – scratch proof and water resistance, Vinyl is a formidable opponent against the likes of toddlers with toy trucks and animals with messy paws. (We do however recommend you keep their claws clipped regularly)

Low maintenance
Vinyl is relatively easy to keep clean with a simple sweep or dust with an electrostatic mop. While water-resistant, any spills should still be cleaned up as soon as possible. In the case of any damage, individual Vinyl planks and tiles can easily be replaced.

Stylish and versatile
Vinyl mimics the look of other floors types including hardwood, tile and natural stone. This versatility in style and colour allows it to match almost any decor. In terms of space and layout, there’s no constraints with Vinyl as it’s available in several styles which vary in their sizes including sheet, tile, plank and board.

Water resistant
Vinyl has water-resistant properties which makes it a safer choice for bathrooms, laundries and basements. When exposed to spills and splashes, unlike other floors Vinyl won’t rot, discolour or warp.

Allergy-friendly
Vinyl floors are hypoallergenic because they have very few seams, which means they have less places for dust mites, allergens, mould or bacteria to hide and grow.

Quiet
As it is soft underfoot, Vinyl is naturally more resilient. The resilience of the floor means it is quieter than other hard floor surfaces making it an ideal solution for second stories and playrooms.

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Family-friendly floors

If you’re reading this, it’s because you’ve either got children in your future, or you’ve currently got children running about your house throwing toys, tracking mud in from outside and falling over their own feet. Kids, we love em’ but they can wreak havoc on your floors!

If you’re thinking about updating your floors there’s a few things to keep in mind if you have kids. Firstly, your floors need to be safe. They also need to be durable, easy to clean and perhaps good at absorbing noise? Any mums currently blocking out the sounds of their toddler’s temper tantrum will probably agree with us on that one…

Every floor material has its pros and cons, in this instance some are better choices than others for different reasons. So we put together this list of family-friendly floor options to consider when…

You’re worried about tumbles

Babies learning to take their first steps are sure to take a few tumbles. As are toddlers and young kids running around playing games of chasey. So if a soft, resilient floor is your priority – then stone and tile are a big no. Instead, opt for vinyl or carpet. Vinyl flooring is softer underfoot than natural wood flooring, alternatively carpet can provide cushioning for any accidental falls. If you have younger children with a penchant for spilling food and drawing wherever (and on whatever) they like with their crayons – we recommend choosing a darker colour for carpet!

You’re worried about scratches

When there are children about, you need a floor that can hold its own. After all, it will be competing with heavy foot traffic, muddy shoes and all sorts of toys being dragged about. Laminate is a multi-layered composite material that can simulate the look of wood. But it’s not just popular because of its look, laminate comes with a durable wear layer that renders is scratch-resistant, water-resistant and in some cases slip-resistant (if you opt for textured styles). Added benefits? It’s budget friendly, hypoallergenic and easy to clean.

Photo credit: Inside Out Magazine

You’re worried about allergies

If your little ones suffer from allergies or asthma, hardwood floors are a great choice as they don’t harbour outdoor pollens, dust or dander like other materials. While debris can sit atop their naturally smooth surface, provided you keep up with maintenance and clean (sweep or dry mop) regularly – you’ll be free of any nasties!

You’re worried about mess

Kids are messy, no doubt about it. If spending your days cleaning isn’t something you aspire to, then you should consider vinyl. A simple sweep or light mop is all vinyl needs to remain in tip-top condition. It’s highly stain-resistant, scratch resistant and water-resistant. Some styles are even completely waterproof, which means you don’t need to worry about mould and mildew!

So there you have it. Obviously, some floors excel in certain areas more than others. But what’s great is that they all come with additional benefits. Whether your priority is durability, budget, maintenance and so forth – there are plenty of options available to suit you and your kids!

Photo credit: Kutikai

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Pet-Friendly Flooring by Terra Mater

When deciding on a new floor, it’s easy to get caught up in your needs and wants. But what about your pets? What works for you doesn’t always work for them.

If you have a pet and you’re looking to update your floors, there’s one thing you need to ask yourself. Do you want pet-proof floors, or pet-friendly floors? What’s the difference you ask? Here’s a good example…

Stone and tile floors are durable, hard-wearing, stain-resistant and water-resistant. They’re ideal for you because you don’t need to worry about scratches, stains or a tough surface to clean when accidents occur. Because they’re less likely to incur any damages as a result of having a pet, we would class them as pet-proof, but not pet-friendly. Why? They’re cold to the touch, a harder surface to walk or sleep on, and can be slippery at times. Not ideal for your pet.

Photo credit: Adairs

If you decide on pet-friendly floors, there are 4 qualities you should seek in your floor choice…

– It’s scratch resistant

– It’s water-resistant

– It offers traction

– It’s soft underfoot

With that in mind, these are our top choices for pet-friendly floors.

Laminate ticks nearly all the boxes when it comes to being pet-friendly. Thanks to its durable wear layer, it’s water and scratch-resistant (and in particular patterns, it’s less likely to show any scratches that may occur). While some laminate styles – gloss in particular – can be slightly slippery for anyone racing across, when you opt for a textured style you’re adding an instant slip-resistance!

Vinyl is what we consider pet-proof and pet-friendly. It’s waterproof, stain-resistant, easy to clean and it absorbs noise. It’s also comfortable for your pets to walk and lie on, provides them with traction which reduces the risk of slips and injuries, and it’s hypoallergenic – meaning it doesn’t harbour things like mold, mildew and pet hair.

Photo credit: Jane Beiles Photo via Pinterest

If you opt for a pet-friendly floor, chances are you’re compromising on some of the qualities that make it pet-proof. Floors can be scratched, stains will occur – wear and tear is inevitable. But there are several things you can do to minimise any damage your pet may inflict on your floors…

– Use doormats at all entrances to catch any dirt and debris your pet might track in

– Clip your pet’s nails regularly. While some materials are scratch-resistant, heavier animals are more likely to cause damage if their nails aren’t trimmed.

– Implement the use of rugs in areas where your pets sleep and play. It’s in these places that pets are more likely to take off running

– Whether your floor is water-resistant or waterproof, it’s still recommended you wipe up any liquid spills or accidents immediately to prevent stains or water damage

– Placemats underneath food and water bowls where spillage is likely to occur

– Sweep, mop or vacuum regularly

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Selecting the Perfect Flooring for Your Kitchen

The best floors for your kitchen

If you’re looking to update the floors in your kitchen and you’re feeling overwhelmed with choices, we don’t blame you! A quick scroll through Pinterest showcases an array of flooring options for kitchens now available in a variety of styles, colours and patterns.

Choosing the right floor for your kitchen depends on a number of factors. Because there are pros and cons to every floor type, we’ve broken down our choices based on durability, style, resilience, cleanability and return on investment.

If you want something that’s… Stylish

If you want a floor that matches any decor and will never go out of style, you can’t go past hardwood floors. They’re perfect for open plan areas, creating a unified look between your kitchen and living areas. Hardwood floors are not only stylish, but they’re durable and add value to your home thanks to their long life span. Available in two types, we recommend engineered hardwood for the kitchen as it’s unique construct offers greater dimensional stability. Which means it’s less susceptible to changes in humidity and temperature fluctuations which are common in kitchens.

If you want something that’s… Durable

Durability is an important factor for any kitchen floor. Why? It incurs heavy foot traffic, it has heavy items like chairs and tables moved across it regularly and it would cop the odd kitchen utensil being dropped on it. For a tough floor we would opt for hardwood floors, stone or tile.

Photo source: Homes to Love

If you want something that’s… Resilient

Standing in the one place for long periods of time can be tough on your muscles and joints, so if you’re the kind of person who spends hours in the kitchen cooking – resilience is an important factor to consider. Vinyl and Cork are extremely resilient flooring materials due to their higher levels of cushioning. And not only are they softer to walk on, they’re slip-resistant too! Still need convincing? These two materials are also water-resistant and moisture resistant which makes them perfectly suitable for the kitchen.

If you want something that’s… Good value for money

If you love the look of more expensive materials but you don’t have the budget for them – laminate is the perfect choice for you. Laminate flooring imitates the look of hardwood, tile and slate just to name a few – but at a fraction of the cost. Easy to install, laminate floors are finished with a durable wear layer that makes it resistant to moisture, stains and general wear and tear.

If you want something that’s… Easy to clean

The kitchen is one of the busiest rooms in any home, it’s also one of the messiest. If you’re looking to cut down on the cleaning that will follow the cooking of many meals (and messy children and pets) Vinyl is your answer. This budget friendly option is not only water-resistant and stain-resistant – it’s also resistant to mold, mildew and moisture. A quick sweep or light mop is all you need to keep Vinyl clean. Other benefits? Unlike stone or tile, Vinyl is far more forgiving when it comes to dropping the odd item – perfect for any clumsy chefs out there!

Photo: Terra Mater Resiplank in Savannah

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5 Key Benefits of Upgrading Your Flooring

Engineered Hardwood Flooring

You add value
 You might not be planning on selling your home anytime soon, but you will eventually right? Homes with newer flooring are valued higher than those with older, outdated floors. Next to the walls, your floor takes up the most space in your home – so you can guarantee that potential homeowners aren’t going to miss that stained carpet or scratched floorboards when they walk in. You can bet that if they’re already adding your floors to the renovation list in their mind, they’re less likely to meet you at your desired price. This is why it’s better to give your floors a refresh to add value to your home. And if you’re not looking to move any time soon – well, you’ll get to reap the benefits of those new floors won’t you?

You get a complete visual upgrade
Your floor takes up a major part of any space, so it’s no surprise that a new floor can be completely transformational. If you’ve found that no matter what decor you choose, you just can’t quite capture the look you’re going for – it could be that a floor refresh is just what you need. There’s nothing like new colour or style of flooring to pull together a beautiful interior aesthetic.

Photo credit: Pinterest

You enjoy health benefits
Old floors can harbour mould, mildew and dust mites – all of which contributes to air pollution which can affect people with allergies and poor immune systems. Installing a hypoallergenic floor like Vinyl or Laminate is a great way to start afresh!

Padding is another benefit to new floors. While it’s obviously great to have something soft to land on if you trip and fall, there’s another situation you’re more likely to encounter that can affect your health. Joint pain has long been associated with standing and walking on hard floors for long periods of time – with sufferers experiencing pain in their ankles, knees and hips. So whether it’s a fluffy new carpet or a vinyl plank with an added layer of cushioning – your new floor can help offset some eventual discomfort.

You save time
There’s nothing like vacuuming your carpet 3 times in the hope it will look presentable to have you considering that maybe, there’s another way. If you’re time poor, or simply wanting to spend less time cleaning and more time doing what you like – then consider low-maintenance floors like Vinyl and Laminate. All they require is a quick sweep or dust-mop, so you can say finally goodbye to messy buckets of water and the days of getting tangled up in vacuum cords!

You save money
Particular floors serve as better insulation than others, helping to preserve the temperature in your home. With less temperature fluctuations, you’re less inclined to rely on heating and cooling as much throughout the year. Which means you can look forward to saving some extra money on your utility bills!

Aesthetics and financial incentives aside, there might be other serious reasons why you need to update your floors. Check out our other blog on the 5 signs you need to replace your floors. 

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Main Benefits of Hardwood Flooring

Terra Mater Dove Grey Oak in Bedroom

Variety
Hardwood floors are extremely versatile and can be tailored to suit any space. With a variety of species, colours, styles and finishes available – the options are endless.

Style
Timeless is a word often associated with hardwood floors. When you think back to what was ‘in’ fashion over the years – think shag carpets and patterned tiles – hardwood floors steadily maintained popularity and that doesn’t appear to be changing any time soon!

Durable
Quality hardwood floors are extremely durable and can last decades if properly maintained. The most damage a hardwood floor can incur is scratches and dents. These can be fixed with sanding and refinishing, a process that can be completed multiple times – extending its lifespan significantly. Hardwood’s counterparts are limited in the amount of times they can be repaired, and while after time they’ll begin to look worn – hardwood floors will retain their character and value for many years. For tips on how to protect your hardwood floors from wear and tear, check out our blog!

Practical
Hardwood floors are easy to clean because they don’t accumulate a lot of dirt, dust or debris. When it comes to cleaning all that’s required is a weekly sweep, dust mop or vacuum. Note: Areas that incur more traffic (i.e. entrance ways, hallways, kitchens) may require more regular cleaning.

Cost efficient
If you’re looking to make a great long-term investment, you can’t go past hardwood floors. Any realtor will confirm that the presence of hardwood floors immediately adds value to your property. While initially timber flooring may be a dearer option, when you take into account its durability and lifespan, it is extremely cost efficient in comparison to other alternative i.e. Carpets which need to be replaced every 7-10 years.

Allergy-friendly
Unlike carpets, hardwood floors are not a breeding ground for mold, mildew or dust mites. Because they are so easy to clean, any residual dirt and residue is easily removed with minimal effort – making hardwood floors hypoallergenic and  well-suited to people with allergies.

Eco-friendly
When it comes to flooring, wood is not always considered a ‘green’ choice.
Cutting down trees destroys forests, right? Wrong! Wood flooring is a completely sustainable choice that actually gives back more to the environment than it takes. In the case of managed forests, for every tree that’s cut down another is re-planted in its place. And what many don’t know is younger trees actually absorb more carbon dioxide and produce more oxygen than older trees which greatly increases air quality. Wood products also continue to retain carbon dioxide even after they have been harvested!

But that’s not all. Wood floors use less water and energy to produce than other flooring options. At the end of their service life, wood floors can be burned as fuel, recycled or repurposed altogether.

Health benefits
In a study commissioned by Planet Ark, it was found that being surrounded by wood could have positive effects on the body and brain. The study found that the presence of wood had both physiological and psychological benefits that mimicked the effect of spending time outside. The feelings of natural warmth and comfort that wood elicits in people have the effect of lowering blood pressure and heart rates, reducing stress and anxiety and increasing positive social interactions.

Want to learn more about hardwood floors? We’ve answered the most commonly asked questions on our blog, check it out!

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Flooring Selection: Key Guidelines and Pitfalls To Avoid

Choosing a floor can be a difficult decision. What style? What colour? What texture? And that’s just the aesthetics! Style aside, you need to consider a lot of other things like budget, lifestyle, care and maintenance.

But don’t make up your mind just yet! We put together a list of important Do’s and Don’ts for when it comes to deciding what floor is best for you – and how to enjoy it for years to come.

Do… Evaluate your space
Are you planning on refurbishing your bathroom or laundry? Areas likely to incur moisture, humidity and temperature fluctuations are the last place you want to put hardwood flooring. Perhaps you’re installing Vinyl floors in a big beautiful lobby with floor to ceiling windows… But did you know Vinyl can fade under direct sunlight? Where you want to install your flooring can play a big role in determining what your options are.

Don’t… Forget your budget
When planning your budget, keep lifespan in mind. While hardwood floors are expensive initially, if well maintained they’ll last for decades without needing to be replaced. Carpet and Vinyl on the other hand, has a much shorter lifespan of 10-15 years and will need to be replaced more often. So will your budget cover you in the short-term or long-term?

Do… Keep your lifestyle in mind
Natural stone is beautiful, but it’s probably not the best choice if you have a house full of toddlers taking tumbles. What you want might not always be the best or most pragmatic choice. So when choosing a floor, consider your lifestyle and what will best suit that. Need help? Check out our blog on choosing the right floor for you.

Don’t… Be close minded
To some people, it’s either carpet or floorboards. But there’s a world of flooring out there that many people don’t even know about. Are you struggling to find the budget for the hardwood floors you so desperately want? Vinyl floors imitate the look and feel of hardwood at a fraction of the cost. Being open minded and doing your research more than pays off! Learn more about the other benefits of Vinyl floors here.

Do… Use doormats and rugs
When it comes to dealing with wear and tear, prevention is key. To avoid any unnecessary damage to your floors, invest in a few doormats and area rugs to protect your floors – especially in high traffic areas like entrances, hallways, living rooms and kitchens.

Don’t… Forget about your furniture
Dirt and debris isn’t the only thing that can lead to scratches or dents. Furniture is another major culprit for damage, so we recommend using felt furniture pads and floor protectors on your chairs, tables and sofas.

Do… Clean up spills immediately!
While that’s a given for hardwood floors, even water-resistant flooring like Laminate and Vinyl are still susceptible to water damage if a spill is left for a significant amount of time.

Don’t… Use the wrong cleaning materials
Always read the care and maintenance instructions for your floor before you clean it. Using the wrong cleaning materials can lead to irreparable damage. So before you grab the mop, wax or vacuum – double-check if you’re allowed to use it first. If you’re unsure, speak to the manufacturer.

Do… Keep up with maintenance
The lifespan of your floor varies depending on its material. But just because the manufacturer says it can last for 10 or 20 or even 100 years – it doesn’t mean that it will. How well your floor lasts depends on YOU and how well you maintain it. With regular cleaning and preventative measures, you’ll be able to sit back and enjoy your floors for many years to come.

Don’t…. Forget to clip your pet’s nails
Even with heavy-duty protective wear layers and finishes – no floor is completely safe from Fido’s claws. So to prevent scratches, clip your pet’s nails regularly. Learn more about pet-friendly floors here.

Do… Hire a Professional
Installing your flooring yourself CAN save you quite a bit of money. But consider how much money you’ll need to spend if you don’t do a good job. Hiring a professional can save you thousands in service fees and additional materials if they require replacement.

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5 Key Indicators To Replace Your Flooring

It’s outdated
Shag carpet might have been all the rage in the 70’s but nowadays… not so much. You don’t want people to feel like they’ve stepped into another era when they enter your space. These days there are plenty of options to choose from to give your space a freshen up. Our top pick? Hardwood floors are known to match with any décor and have well and truly stood the test of time when it comes to surviving trends.

It’s deteriorating
Tiles crack and carpets stain. Most floors will dent and scratch over time. But there are more troubling signs of deterioration to look out for. Are your hardwood floors warping or buckling? It’s possible that they’ve sustained water damage – which if severe enough can lead to wood rot. Mildew could be the cause of discoloration in the grout of your tiles that won’t budge with the help of any cleaning products. Are there cracks between your floorboards? Because they can serve as breeding grounds for insects and dust mites.

It still appears dirty and worn, even after you’ve cleaned it
Very few floors will appear ‘good as new’ after years of use. Carpets will eventually lose that soft fluffiness, tiles can dull without polish, and red wine will wreak havoc on pretty much any surface it falls on. If you’re finding that your floors still look dirty, tired and worn even after your best efforts to clean and refresh them – it’s time to consider replacing them.

Your allergies are playing up
Asthma, throat irritation and the flu are just a few common effects of indoor air pollution which can be caused by dust mites and mold. While carpet is commonly known to house bacteria and allergens like dust and dander, other floors can also harbor mold within the subfloor if they’re not properly installed or are subjected to water damage. Laminate and Vinyl floors are often recommended for allergy sufferers because of their hypoallergenic status.

You’re looking to sell your home
Next to the walls, your floor takes up the most space in your home – so you can guarantee that potential homeowners aren’t going to miss that stained carpet or scratched floorboards when they walk in. You can bet that if they’re already adding your floors to the renovation list in their mind, they’re less likely to meet you at your desired price.

So there you have it. Replacing your floors can give your space a completely new look, add value to your home and improve your health. Still need more convincing? We looked at the benefits of updating your floor in another blog, read more about it here!

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Selecting The Perfect Flooring Solution For Any Space

With so many flooring options to choose from, deciding what to put down in your home, office or commercial space can be a difficult decision. The perfect floor can complement a look or inspire one altogether, but aesthetics aside – there are several other factors to consider when choosing a floor to suit your needs…

What is your budget?
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly solution, carpet or laminate flooring are the way to go. For a mid-range budget domestic hardwood and engineered wood flooring are an option alongside higher quality laminate and vinyl flooring options. For those that see their floor more as an investment rather than a solution – exotic hardwood floors are known for their durability making them a solid long-term investment.

Where will the flooring be located?
Entryways are prone to more mess and heavy foot traffic, as such they require a durable floor solution that’s easy to clean like hardwood floors. Areas that have fluctuating humidity or are likely to incur spills (bathrooms, laundries, basements) should steer clear of carpet or hardwood floors and opt for a tiled solution as they maintain their structure  regardless of temperature changes and are less likely to harbour mould or mildew.

Do you want something low maintenance when it comes to cleaning?
Each floor type requires a certain amount of maintenance. For those wanting as little maintenance as possible, a resilient surface like vinyl or laminate floors are your best option. If you’re after a solution that will last longer and continue to maintain its appearance, you’re looking at higher maintenance materials like carpet, tile and hardwood. While the above require regular cleaning in the form of vacuuming, mopping and sweeping – each require extra maintenance at some point in time. Carpets need to be steam-cleaned, tiles need to be regrouted and if damaged – hardwood may require sanding and refinishing. Either choose a floor that’s easier to maintain or commit to the upkeep required for particular flooring.

Will you be installing the floor yourself?
While some choose to install their floor themselves to save money, the DIY route is only an option for certain styles of flooring (particularly, if you want it done well). If you’re wanting something that you can install yourself, laminate and vinyl plank flooring tend to be easier to self-install as each board connects with an adjacent board rather than a subfloor. If you have your heart set on hardwood, that’s best installed by a professional. And while carpet may seem fairly straightforward, it can be tricky to lay down perfectly flat.

Consider your family and lifestyle
If you’re furnishing your home, it’s important to consider the people who will be in it. With young children comes wear and tear from spills, running around and playing with toys. Pets can have accidents and scratch floors if their nails are too long. Vinyl and laminate floors are extremely durable and resilient making them a great choice for homes with children and pets. While carpet is comfortable and great to catch off-balance toddlers, it doesn’t fare as well with spills and can house dust and dander which isn’t great for anyone with allergies. Hardwood floors are extremely allergy-friendly as any residual dirt or residue can easily be removed with minimal effort.

Check out our blogs on family-friendly and pet-friendly floors to learn more.

Family Lifestyle

Photo credit: Planete Deco

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Hardwood Floor Myths

When choosing a floor for your environment, it’s important to have all the facts.

Hardwood floors are known for their beauty, their value and their timelessness. It’s why they’re one of the most popular flooring choices. But hardwood floors are often disregarded entirely due to misconceptions.

We chatted to the experts to debunk several myths about hardwood floors, here’s what they had to say…

They’re expensive
Yes, they are expensive…initially. Carpet, vinyl and laminate flooring may be cheaper up front, but they need to be replaced every 10-20 years (depending on their quality). When properly cared for hardwood floors can last for hundreds of years, which means they’re actually very cost effective.

Wear and tear aside – hardwood floors have proven their ability to remain timeless, adapting to different decorating trends over the years. This makes them a great long-term investment, as they’re less likely to require replacement to suit different styles – unlike other alternatives which can appear dated.

They’re noisy
There’s no doubt about it, it is quieter to have carpet. But the noise levels in wood floored rooms can be adjusted very easily. Cloth materials are known to absorb sound and echoes, so when you furnish an area with furniture, rugs and curtains you will automatically reduce the amount of noise that comes with hardwood floors.

Living Room Accessories

Photo credit: We Heart It

They’re hard to maintain
Routine maintenance for hardwood flooring is no different to that of carpet, vinyl or tiled floors. All it requires is a simple sweep with a light bristled brush or electrostatic mop. If you’d prefer to vacuum it, remember to switch off the beater bar or use a floor brush attachment. Wet mops and steam cleaners should be avoided as excess moisture can potentially cause water damage.

They scratch easily
While hardwood floors can be scratched, they don’t scratch easily and there are various precautions you can undertake to prevent them. The reality is, all types of floor will incur wear and tear over time, but unlike other alternatives which need to be replaced altogether, hardwood floors can be repaired and made to look brand new with a light sanding and refinish.

They’re cold
Wood floors are known to give a visual warmth in appearance, but can the same be said about physical warmth? Absolutely. Wood is an excellent insulator that maintains a steady temperature throughout the year. Not convinced? Underfloor heating is an option for those concerned about icy cold winters, but if you’re looking for a cheaper alternative – rugs can be incorporated for additional warmth while also adding an element of style to your decor.

Cosy Living Room

Photo credit: Cassandra Ellis

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Hardwood Floors: Essential Care And Maintenance

A beautiful hardwood floor can transform a room, add value to your property and when properly cared for – can be enjoyed for decades.

But here’s the thing, everyday wear and tear is inevitable. Whether it’s installed in your home, office or commercial space – hardwood floors are susceptible to a number of threats. Moisture, dirt and heavy furniture are just a few things that can damage your floors.

The good news is, there’s plenty of measures you can take to ensure your hardwood floors remain in perfect condition…

Doormats

Outside dirt and debris tracked in by shoes can lead to scratches. If you can’t commit to a completely shoe-free zone, place doormats at entrances to encourage guests to wipe their feet thus preventing debris from causing any damage.

Rugs

Not only are rugs a stylish accessory to any room, they’re great for protecting your floors from heavy foot traffic and furniture scuffs and scratches. To prevent slips, keep your rugs in place using an underlay made with natural fabrics. Avoid the use of double-sided tape which can leave a sticky residue or materials such as latex or synthetic rubber which can cause discoloration.

Living Room Rugs

Photo credit: Inside Out Magazine

Use the correct cleaning materials

Water absorption can result in stained floors and weak planks, so using a steam cleaner is a definite no-no. Instead, sweep the floor with a soft-bristled broom or electrostatic mop. For any troublesome stains use a lightly damp mop with water. Never use any floor cleaning products that are not designed for hardwood flooring.

Clean up spills immediately!

To avoid any potential water damage, clean up spills as quickly as possible using paper towels or cloths. For areas like the kitchen that are likely to incur spills and drips, use soft rubber mats where possible to protect the floor from any water.

Mind your pets

Protect your floors from scratches by clipping your pets’ claws regularly. Additionally, place area mats where your pets lie – as that’s where they’re most likely to take off running at a moment’s notice!

Living Room Pet

Photo credit: Inside Out Magazine

When it comes to the lifespan of your hardwood floors, prevention is the key!