Buying Guide To Parquet Flooring
Durable, easy to maintain and a centrepiece in its own right, parquet flooring is an investment so it’s important to consider some practicalities before buying it. We’ve created this buying guide to parquet flooring so you can do just that.
What Is Parquet Flooring?
Parquet flooring is made up of variations of wooden battens that are slotted together in a geometric mosaic. A popular alternative to marble (which required constant cleaning) in the 1600s, the decorative effect of parquet flooring is timeless and stunning.
Types Of Parquet Flooring
Other than the type of wood you can use for parquet flooring - such as oak or walnut - there is also the choice between solid, engineered, LVT and laminate parquet flooring:
Solid:
The most traditional type of parquet, solid parquet floors are created from a single species of wood - most commonly oak. Solid wood parquet is the most expensive, but it will add a lot of value to your home.
Engineered:
Engineered parquet consists of multiple layers of wood with a hardwood veneer at the top layer. This option is cheaper than the solid version but gives a very good imitation. It is also great for those who want to install it over underfloor heating systems. Shop our engineered herringbone flooring.
Luxury Vinyl Tiles (LVT):
Made with advanced technologies we have available today, LVT is great for those who want a realistic parquet effect (created with a photographic layer) that’s cost-effective, easy to install and a breeze to maintain. Available in many designs and thicknesses, you can find our Herringbone Vinyl flooring a great option
Laminate Parquet Flooring:
Great for high traffic areas such as hallways and even commercial spaces, laminate parquet flooring also gives a very realistic wood effect and high quality laminate is scratch resistant and simple to take care of. Some even come with a waterproof feature, which is great for kitchens and bathrooms.
Is Herringbone The Same As Parquet?
Parquet is the umbrella term used to describe a variety of patterned floors of which herringbone is one of the most popular. Herringbone is said to have been developed in Rome by city architects when they found that roads were more stable when bricks were laid facing the same way as foot traffic. Another common style of parquet flooring is chevron. It’s also laid in a zig-zag pattern but they also feature a distinctive V shape producing straight lines rather than a staggered effect. The type of finishes available depend upon the type of flooring you choose.
How Long Does Parquet Flooring Last?
With the right maintenance and care, parquet flooring can last for many, many years. If you need tips on how to look after it, you can read our blog with Four Of The Best Ways To Clean Parquet Flooring.
Over time - as with any flooring - it can start to wear and look dull, particularly in high traffic areas. There is also the option, while difficult, to refinish a parquet floor. There are plenty of wooden floor scratch repair products on the market but if your parquet becomes warped, water damaged or heavily scratched, you’d be wise to seek the help of a professional.
Are Parquet Floors Expensive?
They don’t have to be! Parquet flooring cost is dependent on the underlay, type of flooring you choose, as well as how you decide to have it installed. Custom laid parquet is rare today as it requires individual pieces of wood and assembly. As outlined above, there are many more cost effective options out there these days that you can choose to install yourself.
We hope this blog has helped you when it comes to deciding whether or not you’ll invest in this beautiful flooring. If you’re sold, explore the parquet flooring options we have to offer.
