Engineered Flooring Style Options
When shopping for engineered wood floors, the array of choices can seem daunting. Factors such as grain, colour, staining, and more are all important considerations. However, one aspect that often gets overlooked is the layout or pattern of the floor. When it comes to engineered wood flooring, there are three primary layouts: single strip, multi-strip, and parquet.
Single Strip Engineered Flooring
The single strip is the most popular option for engineered flooring. Here, a single piece of wood from the tree is used to create each board, ensuring uniformity and continuity in design. The design draws attention to the natural aesthetic of the wood, displaying its grain and structure in their full glory. Single strip flooring is perfect for rooms where you want to create an impression of spaciousness. The simplicity of the design allows the eye to flow across the room unhindered, giving an illusion of additional space.
Multi-Strip Engineered Flooring
Multi-strip engineered flooring involves combining smaller pieces of wood from the tree to create each board. The smaller pieces are often easier to source, making this type of flooring more affordable than the single strip variety. The pattern formed by the various wood pieces can add a unique aesthetic appeal, creating an interesting interplay of grain and colour. Multi-strip flooring is a great choice for small rooms because the multiple lines and divisions can create a sense of extended space.
Parquet Engineered Flooring
Parquet flooring is a sophisticated and unique style of flooring. This involves taking many small pieces of wood from the tree and laying them in a geometric pattern. The result is a luxurious, intricate design that is often seen in large, stately buildings or country estates. Parquet flooring is one of the best ways to make a statement and create a high-impact visual with your floor. Among the many possible patterns, the Herringbone pattern is one of the most popular for its elegance and visual interest.
Beyond the layout of the flooring, another critical consideration is the type of edge that finishes off each board. The edge style can subtly influence the overall aesthetic of the floor.
Square Edge Engineered Flooring
Square edge engineered flooring involves boards that fit together uniformly, creating a seamless surface. This design blends all the boards together, creating an uninterrupted flow from plank to plank. This edging style gives the floor a contemporary feel, making it perfect for modern homes.
Bevelled Edge Engineered Flooring
Boards with a bevelled edge create a more traditional aesthetic. Bevelled edge flooring features a distinct v-groove between each plank, creating a pattern that is less formal than the square edge type. The deep bevel also serves a practical purpose - it's great for hiding tiny gaps that can appear between the boards.
Micro-Bevelled Edge Engineered Flooring
Micro-bevelled edges are a compromise between the square and full bevelled edges. With this style, each plank has a slight groove, but not as deep as the full bevel. This design distinguishes between the planks without creating an area where dust, dirt, and debris can gather. It's a perfect solution for those seeking a balanced aesthetic.
In conclusion, the choice of flooring layout and edge style significantly influences the final appearance of the room. While the primary consideration would be personal preference and aesthetic appeal, the practical aspects, such as the ease of cleaning and the perception of space, should also be factored into the decision-making process.