Flooring Tips You Can Use Today
Stuck wondering which floor will look good, last long, and fit your budget? You’re not alone. Below are straight‑forward tips that cut the guesswork. Whether you’re tackling a single room or the whole house, these ideas will help you pick, lay, and care for the right floor.
Pick the Right Material for Your Lifestyle
First, think about how the room is used. High‑traffic areas like the hallway or kitchen need something tough – vinyl plank, laminate, or tile. For bedrooms and low‑traffic spots, you can go softer with engineered wood or carpet. In Aussie climates, moisture resistance matters, so choose waterproof luxury vinyl plank (LVP) if you expect spills or humidity.
When money matters, cheap flooring doesn’t mean cheap looks. Vinyl sheet, low‑cost laminate, and basic ceramic tiles give a fresh vibe without breaking the bank. Compare price per square metre and check durability ratings – a slightly pricier option that lasts 10‑15 years wins over cheap stuff that needs replacing in five.
Plan Your Layout Before You Lay
Measure the room accurately and draw a simple sketch. Decide whether you’ll run boards lengthwise, across the room, or in a diagonal pattern. Diagonal can make a small room feel bigger, but it wastes a bit of material. Leave a 10‑12 mm expansion gap around walls; it prevents the floor from buckling when it expands.
Use a chalk line to mark the starting line. If you’re using click‑lock LVP or laminate, stagger the seams by at least 30 cm – it looks more natural and adds strength. For tile, keep grout lines consistent; a 3‑mm gap works well for most indoor spaces.
Installation Tips That Save Time and Money
Most modern flooring (LVP, laminate) is DIY‑friendly. Remove old carpet or laminate, clean the subfloor, and lay a moisture‑proof underlay if needed. Click‑lock boards snap together – no glue, no nails. For tile, you’ll need thin‑set mortar and a notched trowel. Spread mortar, press the tile in, and use spacers for even grout lines.
Don’t rush the underlay. A smooth, level surface prevents squeaks later on. If you hit a small dip, sand it down or add a thin layer of plywood. And always double‑check the direction of light – wood and LVP look best when the grain runs parallel to the main light source.
Care and Maintenance Made Simple
Keep floors clean with a soft broom or vacuum (no beater bar on wood). For spills, wipe them up immediately to avoid staining, especially on LVP and laminate. Use a pH‑neutral cleaner; harsh chemicals can damage the finish.
Re‑coat hardwood every 3‑5 years to keep it looking fresh. For LVP, a quick mop with warm water and a dab of mild soap is enough. Replace a few damaged planks instead of the whole room – most click‑lock systems let you pull out a board without tearing the whole floor.
Got a specific question about luxury vinyl plank resale value or cheap flooring options? Check out our detailed guides on each material. With the right choice and a bit of know‑how, you’ll have a floor that looks great and holds up for years to come.
