Below are some frequently asked questions about new flooring choices. If you have any questions that are not answered on our website, visit one of our retailers or reach out to our support team on enquiries@asttimbers.com.au and they will get back to you as soon as possible!
What are the advantages of floating flooring?
Floating flooring offers several advantages, such as easy installation without the need for adhesives or nails, versatility to be installed over different subfloor types, excellent sound insulation properties, and the ability to expand and contract with temperature and humidity changes.
Can floating flooring be installed in any room?
Floating flooring can be installed in most rooms, including living rooms, bedrooms, kitchens, and even basements. However, it is important to consider the specific material's suitability for areas with high moisture or heavy foot traffic. Floating flooring is not recommended in wet areas like bathrooms or laundries.
How do I maintain my flooring?
Maintenance for flooring is generally straightforward. Regular sweeping or vacuuming, along with occasional damp mopping using manufacturer-recommended cleaning products, is usually sufficient. It's important to avoid excessive moisture and to promptly clean up any spills to prevent damage. Our SelectCare range is available and suits all of Australian Select Timbers floors.
Can engineered flooring be refinished?
The ability to refinish flooring depends on the material. Laminate, hybrid and luxury vinyl planks cannot be refinished, while engineered hardwood may be able to undergo a limited number of refinishing processes. It's best to consult the manufacturer's guidelines for specific information on refinishing options.
How long does flooring typically last?
The lifespan of flooring varies depending on the material, quality, and maintenance. Generally, well-maintained pre-engineered flooring can last anywhere from 10 to 30 years or more, depending on the wear layer thickness and the overall quality of the product.
What are the main flooring types available at AST?
Laminate Flooring: Laminate flooring is known for its durability and scratch resistance. It is also relatively easy to clean and maintain. However, it's important to choose a laminate with a good protective top layer with a good AC rating to ensure it can withstand wear.
Engineered Hardwood Flooring: Engineered hardwood flooring combines the beauty of hardwood with enhanced durability. It is more resistant to moisture and scratches compared to solid hardwood, making it a better option for homes with pets. Some engineered hardwoods can be resurfaced if there is enough veneer to do so. Our engineered timber floors are a premium option and have all the characteristics of a natural floor for natural beauty.
Hybrid Flooring: Hybrid flooring, also known as SPC (stone-plastic composite) or WPC (wood-plastic composite) is known for its water resistance. However, if saturated due to flooding it is still necessary to remove the floor to not allow the excess of moisture to remain underneath. As the material itself is waterproof, it provides great performance in kitchens and high traffic areas with less worry of water damage on the surface.
Hybrid Vs Laminate
Hybrid flooring is a type of flooring that combines the best features of laminate and vinyl flooring. It typically consists of a rigid core made of materials like stone-plastic composite (SPC) or wood-plastic composite (WPC), a printed design layer, and a protective wear layer. On the other hand, laminate flooring is composed of multiple layers of synthetic materials, including a high-density fibreboard (HDF) core of medium-density fibreboard (MDF) core, a photographic layer that mimics the appearance of wood or other materials, and a protective wear layer. The choice between the two would depend on budget and use.