What why and how: A guide on floating flooring

Name: New Home Builder
Brand: McDonald Jones Homes

Emma

20/04/2024

Flooring plays a pivotal role in defining the ambiance and aesthetics of a home. It's not just about providing a surface to walk on; it sets the tone for the entire living space. When it comes to choosing the right flooring option, homeowners often find themselves confronted with a huge range of choices. Among these, floating flooring is a popular and versatile option. In this comprehensive guide, McDonald Jones Homes delves into the world of floating floorboards, exploring its various types, styles and benefits.

What is a floating floor?

Floating flooring refers to a method of installation where floorboards are not directly glued or nailed to the subfloor. Instead, they are laid over an underlayment, allowing them to 'float' freely. This innovative approach involves interlocking the boards or adhering them to each other rather than to the subfloor.

Popular types of floating floors

Laminate floors

Laminate floors are constructed with multiple layers, typically including a high-density fiberboard core, a photographic layer to mimic the appearance of wood or stone and a protective top layer. This type of flooring offers the look of hardwood or tile at a fraction of the cost.

Benefits of laminate flooring

Durability: Laminate floors are highly resistant to scratches, stains and fading, making them ideal for high traffic areas.
Affordability: Compared to hardwood or stone, laminate flooring is more budget friendly without compromising on aesthetics.
Ease of maintenance: With its protective layer, laminate flooring is easy to clean and requires minimal maintenance, making it a practical choice for busy households.

Vinyl flooring

Vinyl flooring comes in various forms, including vinyl plank and vinyl tile, each offering unique design options and installation methods. Vinyl flooring is known for its versatility and resilience, making it a popular choice for kitchens, bathrooms and other moisture prone areas.

Benefits of vinyl flooring

Water resistance: Vinyl flooring is inherently waterproof, making it an ideal choice for areas prone to spills and moisture.
Versatility: Available in a wide range of colours, patterns and textures, vinyl flooring offers endless design possibilities to suit any style or preference.
Realistic appearance: Modern vinyl flooring closely mimics the look and feel of natural materials like hardwood or stone, providing a cost effective alternative without sacrificing aesthetics.

Other types

While laminate and vinyl flooring are the most common types of floating floors, other options such as engineered hardwood and cork also exist. These alternatives may appeal to homeowners seeking specific attributes such as eco-friendliness or enhanced durability.

Benefits of floating floorboards

Sound absorption

One of the notable advantages of floating floors is their ability to absorb sound, reducing noise transmission between floors. This feature is particularly beneficial in multi level homes or apartments where noise control is essential for maintaining peace and privacy.

Cost effectiveness

Floating floorboards offer significant cost advantages over traditional flooring options. Not only are the materials often more affordable, but the installation process is also quicker and simpler. Additionally, the long term durability of floating floors minimises the need for costly repairs or replacements, providing excellent value for homeowners.

Other benefits

In addition to sound absorption and cost effectiveness, floating floors boast other advantages such as ease of installation, moisture resistance and design versatility. Whether you're looking to create a modern, sleek aesthetic or a cosy, rustic ambiance, floating floors can be customised to meet your specific requirements.

Is floating flooring right for Me?

Choosing the right flooring for your home is crucial, and floating flooring presents a versatile option worth considering. If you're unsure whether floating flooring is suitable for your needs, several factors can help you decide. Firstly, assess your lifestyle and the level of foot traffic in the areas where you plan to install the flooring. Floating floors, known for their durability and easy maintenance, are ideal for busy households. Consider your budget as well; floating floors often offer cost effective solutions without compromising quality. Additionally, evaluate the aesthetic appeal and design flexibility of floating flooring, as they come in a variety of styles, colours and materials to complement any interior decor scheme. By considering these aspects and consulting with experts like McDonald Jones Homes, you can determine if floating flooring is the perfect fit for your home.

Trust the expertise of McDonald Jones Homes

When it comes to building your dream home, including installing floating floors, you can trust the expertise of McDonald Jones Homes. With over 30 years of experience in the industry, McDonald Jones Homes is renowned for delivering homes that stand the test of time, incorporating elements of modern design and contemporary living. From consultation to installation, our team of experts ensures that every aspect of your home, including the flooring, is executed with precision and excellence.

MyChoice design studio flooring options

Floating flooring offers a versatile and practical solution for homeowners seeking a stylish and durable flooring option. Whether you opt for laminate, vinyl or another type of floating floor when building with McDonald Jones you get exclusive access to our MyChoice Design Studio. Our interior selection studios showcase stunning floating flooring options to match your lifestyle and budget. You can rest assured that your flooring choices will be handled by our interior design consultants with the utmost care and professionalism.