Timber or timber look tiles? Two popular choices that many of us grapple with when considering flooring for living areas in the home.
While you can’t go wrong with either, it all comes down to a few key things like personal preference, how much money you have to spend, how tough do your floors need to be to withstand the brunt of kids or pets (if that applies), and how much maintenance are you prepared to take on to keep your floors looking immaculate?
Timber look tiles have come a long way. With advancements in tile manufacturing, timber look tiles are fast becoming an eco-friendly and hardwearing flooring alternative. And the range and quality is insane, with a style to suit both traditional and contemporary designs.
With timber look tiles, you can easily be mistaken to think you’re standing on the real thing. Natural imperfections and details like veining, knots and shade, which you would normally see in timber, are now being cleverly disguised in timber look tiles.
So what makes timber look tiles the better flooring option? Let’s take a look at some practical benefits.
Timber look tiles are hard wearing
When it comes to bathroom flooring, you need an option that’s water-tight and slip-resistant. For kitchens, most of us look for something that’s easy to clean and can withstand spills and constant heavy traffic. Cue timber look tiles.
Unlike timber flooring, tiles won’t buckle or expand in wet areas. Extremely hard wearing, waterproof and heatproof, timber look tiles won’t scuff, fade and they are scratch resistant and heel proof. Basic spills and stains can also be easily wiped off without risking permanent damage to your floor. The effects of water over time can be damaging to wooden floors (even if sealed correctly), which is why it’s recommended you don’t use timber in high moisture areas like the bathroom.
All of this makes timber look tiles perfect for bathrooms, kitchens, alfresco areas and around pools.
Wood look tiles are affordable
When compared to authentic wooden floors, timber look tiles are cost effective and low maintenance. Timber is one of the more expensive flooring options when you add up the cost of the material, installation and upkeep. To maintain the look and finish of floorboards, ongoing maintenance is required. This includes sanding, resealing and polishing the floors to ensure its durability.
Timber look tiles are eco-friendly
Tread without guilt! Timber look porcelain tiles are a more sustainable option. It’s a welcome alternative to trees that have been cleared purely for the manufacture of wooden floors.
Tiles are a great insulator
Tiles can help to naturally heat up your home when the floors are exposed to sunlight during the day and act as a conductor at night. During summer they stay cooler underfoot, which is great for warmer climates like in Perth. Unlike wooden floors, timber look tiles can also withstand damage from heat around open and gas fires.
Allergy free flooring
Wood tiles are a safe option for anyone with asthma or allergies. The floor doesn’t trap dirt or dust mites like carpet can, and they are easy to clean. While wooden floors are great for this too, you do need to be careful with what kind of sealer, polish and lacquer you use to avoid breathing in any potentially toxic chemicals into your living space.
Perth’s tile specialists
Be inspired by Ceramic Tile Supplies’ extensive range of quality timber look tiles. Browse our collection or visit our Myaree or Wangara showrooms to view the full range on display.