Choosing floor covering

by Helen J Burness

Deciding on a suitable floor covering is not just a matter of cost and taste. You will also need to consider a number of practicalities. What is the function of the room? Who will use it and what for? How much will the floor be used – whether at home or in a workspace? What is the condition of the existing sub floor, and what will the maintenance involved be for the new floor?

Choosing the right material and colour for your decorative scheme will also need to be taken into account, since floor covering can be a dominant element in the regard. Wit so much choice available, you need to take care to plan carefully before you start. Indulging you personal taste can lead to unwelcome expense.

Carpet

Perhaps the most common floor covering in homes. It is comfortable to walk over and sit on, and can transform any interior instantly. Made from wool, synthetic fibres, or a mixture of the two, carpet is available in a vast range of thicknesses, patterns, colours, textures and prices.

Fibre matting

Made from plant fibres such a sisal and sea grass, matting is easy to lay, either as a wall-to-wall covering or as loose matts. Comes is a range of patterns, colours and shades. It does not show stains, and is fairly easy to clean.

Wood

Bare wooden floors are beautiful in their own right. Stripped, carefully stained or coloured if desired, sealed, and decorated with a rug or matt, they can look stunning.

Vinyl

Vinyl is an excellent choice for kitchens, bathrooms and utility areas. Available in a wide range of colours and patterns – usually textured – this durable material is waterproof, oil and fat resistant, and often cushioned for sound and heat insulation, although it will burn or scratch.

Cork

Warm and practical, floor-grade cork is a reasonably priced option for kitchens and bathrooms. Usually sold as tiles, it is sometimes available in sheet form.

Rubber

This is an expensive alternative to vinyl. Anti-slip and resistant to most household spills, rubber is available in primary colours, subtle two-tone effects, and with raised designs.

Linoleum

Made from natural oils, gums and resins, linoleum is very durable and east to clean. Very popular with interior designers to create unique effects. Prices range from economic to expensive.

Slate

Extremely hardwearing, but also hard underfoot, slate comes in many shades and can be smooth or textured. It is not cheap but will last a lifetime if well laid.

Ceramic

Tiles are available in a truly vast array of styles, finishes, colours and textures. Good looking and easy to wipe clean, they always remain cool no matter how hot it gets.

Quarry tiles

Made from unrefined silica alumina clay, these rustic tiles are usually in shades of red brick, gold or brown. Although durable, they can become pitted – but this often adds to their charm and appeal.