Picking the right flooring for your flat can feel like a big decision. It’s something you’ll live with every day, so getting it right matters. With so many choices available, it’s worth taking some time to think about what works best for your space and lifestyle. Let’s break it down step by step.
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How Do I Choose Which Way to Lay Flooring?
The direction you lay your flooring can change the way a room feels. In narrow spaces like hallways, laying planks lengthwise can make the area feel longer. On the other hand, laying them widthwise can make a room look wider.
For larger, open-plan spaces, think about where the natural light comes in. If you lay the flooring in the same direction as the light, it creates a smooth and unified look. In rooms with unusual shapes, a diagonal layout can add interest and help disguise uneven edges. At the end of the day, the layout should work with the flow of your flat and what feels right to you.
What Flooring Is Best for an Apartment?
When choosing flooring for a flat, it’s all about balancing style and practicality. Engineered wood is a popular choice because it’s durable and brings a touch of elegance. It’s a classic look that works in almost any setting.
If noise is a concern—and it often is in flats—look for options with soundproofing features, like laminate or luxury vinyl tiles (LVT). These materials are not only stylish but also help keep things quieter. LVT is particularly versatile because it’s water-resistant, making it a great option for kitchens and bathrooms.
For those who love soft flooring, carpets can work well in bedrooms for a cosy feel. That said, hard flooring options like wood or LVT can create a cohesive look throughout your flat, with rugs adding softness where needed.
Can You Have Hard Flooring in a Flat?
Absolutely. Hard flooring is not only allowed in flats but also highly practical. Modern materials like engineered wood and laminate are durable, lightweight, and easy to install. To address concerns about noise, consider adding an acoustic underlay. This will help keep things quiet for both you and your neighbours.
Hard flooring is easy to clean, which is especially useful in busy households. Unlike carpets, it doesn’t trap dust or allergens, making it a great choice for maintaining a fresh and healthy home. And if you’re worried about it feeling cold underfoot, underfloor heating pairs beautifully with materials like wood and LVT.
How to Pick the Type of Flooring
Choosing the right type of flooring for your flat depends on a few key factors:
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Room Purpose: Different rooms have different needs. High-traffic areas like living rooms and hallways need durable options like engineered wood or laminate. Kitchens and bathrooms benefit from water-resistant materials like LVT or vinyl.
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Style: Think about the overall look you want. Do you prefer the warmth of wood, the sleekness of stone-effect vinyl, or the comfort of carpet? The right choice will tie your space together.
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Maintenance: Some materials require more upkeep than others. Wood flooring may need occasional refinishing, while LVT is virtually maintenance-free.
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Budget: High-quality wood flooring is an investment, but laminate and vinyl offer affordable alternatives that still look great and last for years.
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Comfort: Adding an underlay can make hard flooring more comfortable to walk on while also providing extra insulation and soundproofing.
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Wrapping It Up
The flooring you choose sets the tone for your flat, so it’s worth taking the time to find what’s right for you. Think about how each room is used, what kind of atmosphere you want to create, and practical considerations like noise and maintenance.
At UK Flooring Depot, we’re here to help you find the perfect flooring for your home. Browse our collection to explore the possibilities and start creating a space you’ll love.
