Oiled, Lacquered or Vinyl what flooring is for you ?

1. Oiled Floor

Description: Oiled floors, typically made from hardwood, are treated with natural or synthetic oils to enhance their appearance and protect the wood. The oil penetrates the wood, providing a matte or satin finish that brings out the wood’s natural grain and colour.

Pros:

• Natural Appearance: Oiled floors have a natural, warm look with a matte finish that enhances the wood grain.
• Repairability: Scratches and dents can often be spot-repaired without needing to refinish the entire floor.
• Non-Toxic: Natural oils are environmentally friendly and often non-toxic.
• Comfort: The finish provides a warmer, softer feel underfoot compared to lacquered floors.

Cons:

• Maintenance: Requires regular maintenance, including re-oiling to maintain its finish and protection.
• Susceptible to Stains: More prone to staining and water damage compared to lacquered floors.
• Cost: Generally more expensive both in terms of materials and maintenance.

Best For: Living rooms, bedrooms, and areas where a natural, warm aesthetic is desired.

2. Lacquered Floor

Description: Lacquered floors, also commonly hardwood, are coated with a protective layer of lacquer or polyurethane. This coating can be glossy, semi-gloss, or matte, providing a hard and durable finish.

Pros:

• Durability: Highly resistant to wear, stains, and scratches due to the protective lacquer layer.
• Low Maintenance: Easier to clean and maintain compared to oiled floors.
• Variety of Finishes: Available in a range of finishes from high gloss to matte.
• Moisture Resistance: Better resistance to water and spills compared to oiled floors.

Cons:

• Less Natural Look: The finish can look less natural and slightly artificial compared to oiled floors.
• Harder Repair: Scratches and damage are more challenging to repair without refinishing the entire floor.
• Less Comfortable: Can feel harder and colder underfoot.

Best For: High-traffic areas like kitchens, hallways, and commercial spaces where durability and ease of maintenance are essential.

3. Vinyl Plank Flooring

Description: Vinyl plank flooring is a synthetic product designed to mimic the look of natural materials like wood or stone. It consists of several layers, including a wear layer, a printed design layer, and a core layer.

Pros:

• Cost-Effective: Typically less expensive than hardwood flooring unless its the high end luxury Vinyl.
• Durability: Extremely resistant to wear, stains, and moisture. Ideal for areas prone to spills and humidity.
• Variety of Designs: Available in a wide range of styles and colors, mimicking the look of wood, stone, or tile.
• Easy Installation: Many vinyl planks feature click-lock installation, using a Stanley knife instead of a jigsaw and chop saws making them easy to install without professional help.
• Low Maintenance: Simple to clean and maintain, requiring minimal upkeep.
• Water proof, no acclimatisation necessary and perfect for underflooring heating.

Cons:

• Artificial Feel: May not feel as luxurious or authentic as real wood or stone doesn't have the variation of real wood or stone, so you could have repeated pattern.
• Potential for Damage: Can be susceptible to dents and gouges from heavy objects or sharp impacts.

Best For: Bathrooms, kitchens, cellars, and any high-moisture or high-traffic areas where you want a durable, low-maintenance flooring option.

  Conclusion:

• Oiled Floors: Best if you prefer a natural aesthetic and are willing to commit to regular maintenance.
• Lacquered Floors: Ideal for high-traffic areas where you need a durable and easy-to-clean surface.
• Vinyl Plank Flooring: Excellent for busy family house holds with pets and Children, perfect for kitchens and bathrooms, hassle free maintenance easy to live with.

Ultimately, the "best" option depends on your specific needs and preferences