When it comes to building your home, deciding on what flooring to use is one of the first decisions you made. As you look into the options you have, you’ll see that there has been a long standing debate between using the traditional hardwood flooring and the modern and new timber-look tiles when it comes to house floors — but do you know the difference?
While both are great options for a house, it is important that before deciding which one is the best for you, you know how they differ, the pros and cons of each one and which is better suited for your own lifestyle and preferences!
Style and Aesthetic
When it comes to the overall style and aesthetic of both of the options, both give that natural calm earthy vibe that we usually associate with homey structures such as cabins and lodges. However, there are a few differences between the two.
Hardwood Flooring:
Hardwood floors have this advantage of being the epitome of class as they are super classy and never go out of style. Its cool and distinct patterns and earthy calm colours make rooms feel cosy and fancy without having to put much effort in it.
When it comes to materials, the choices are varied as well. You can pick from different types like oak or Brazilian cherry, depending on what you like best. Hardwood floors have lots of choices to match your taste.
Timber-Look Tiles:
Now, while tiles are made from different materials, they were designed to look the same as hardwood floors. Tiles that look like wood are really good at copying the real thing. Because of new technology, these tiles can feel and look just like wood, with its different textures and colours. In the end, it gives the same aesthetic look and is a much cheaper option that still looks great!
Durability and Maintenance
Now this is where they differ significantly. Since each of the options are made from different materials, their strengths and weaknesses vary according to your use of the floor, lifestyle and maintenance. Here are some of the things to note when deciding which one suits your home best.
Hardwood Flooring:
One of the primary advantages of hardwood flooring is its durability. With proper care and maintenance, hardwood floors can last for decades, retaining their beauty and structural integrity.
However, while they are the most durable option, they are also more susceptible to scratches and moisture damage, requiring regular upkeep to preserve their appearance — making it quite the hassle for those who do not have the time for regular cleaning and maintenance.
Timber-Look Tiles:
This is where tiles have the upper hand. They give the same look and feel of real wood without the same maintenance and upkeep needed. They are really tough and don’t get scratched, stained, or damaged by water easily.
They’re also simple to clean and take care of, so they’re perfect for busy places or houses with pets and kids. Unlike real wood, you don’t need to refinish or seal them, which saves you a lot of time and work in maintaining them.
Budget Considerations and Cost-effectiveness
Hardwood Flooring:
Even though hardwood floors might cost more upfront compared to its tile alternative, for some, it is actually considered as a worth-it investment. Compared to tiled floors, wooden floors often do not need to be changed or re-tiled, making it quite literally: your floor for life.
When it comes to cost, it is important to think about the long-term benefits. Hardwood makes your home worth more and can handle lots of use over many years if you take good care of it, so it’s a good investment in the end.
Timber-Look Tiles:
If we’re looking at cost only, then it is quite clear that timber-look tiles are cheaper. Making it the cost-effective option than real hardwood.
This is great for homeowners who want the wood look without spending a lot as it gives the same look and feel as well as for those who plan to eventually sell or flip their house! In the end, the main benefit of this is that even if it’s cheaper, they’re quite easy to take care of — saving you a bit of money in the long run.
Environmental Impact
Hardwood Flooring:
This is where it gets tricky. Whether hardwood floors are good for the environment or not depends on where the wood comes from. Choosing wood that’s harvested responsibly or recycled helps protect nature. But cutting down trees and moving the wood around can harm the environment.
The best practice is to purchase wood that comes from ethically-sourced companies and providers. By doing this, you are contributing to creating a sustainable home that is green and uses materials that do not harm the environment!
Timber-Look Tiles:
These tiles are usually made from materials like porcelain or ceramic, which are usually pretty harmless to the environment and do not cause any detriment in time. Since they don’t need real wood and generally use renewable sources, they’re a better option for people who care about making good environmental choices.
Installation and Versatility
Hardwood Flooring:
Putting in hardwood floors needs a professional to make sure they look smooth and last a long time as they install it correctly. They can be styled in lots of ways as you install it and easily give spaces that classy and elegant finish; however, they’re not great for places with lots of moisture, like bathrooms or basements — which are considerations professionals make before agreeing to install it into your home.
Timber-Look Tiles:
Unlike hardwood flooring, timber-look tiles are relatively easy to install, making them a popular DIY option for homeowners. They can be used in moisture-prone areas and are compatible with underfloor heating systems, adding to their versatility.
In the end, it’s clear that there’s a healthy balance of pros and cons for both and in the end it comes right down to choosing which one suits your own lifestyle and preferences.
When deciding, think about how they look, how long they’ll last, what they cost, how they affect the environment, and if they work well in your home. Whether you like the old-school look of hardwood or the easy care of tiles, there’s a flooring choice that fits what you want and need!
Ready to Choose your Home’s New Floor?
Depending on your lifestyle and preference, Good Buy Tiles can easily help you in choosing the perfect floor for your home! With our selection of natural and earthy floor times, you’ll be able to get that classy and elegant finish at a fraction of the price!
So, if you’re ready to choose your home’s new floor, Good Buy Tiles is the right place to visit! Choose from a range of colours, sizes, shapes, textures, and make to complete your project. Visit our website today to see our wide selection of tiles, from high-quality, imported tiles to factory seconds tiles!