A timber floor is a great choice for just about any home, as it has a timeless and classic look and is very durable and hygienic. Your timber floor may last as long as your home, and can potentially even increase its overall resale value. Note a few questions you might have about the different varieties of timber floor available, and then you can decide if it's the right choice for your space.

What's the difference between an engineered floor and a timber floor?

An engineered floor is actually a type of timber floor; the term engineered refers to a thin layer of one type of wood that is applied over another type. The upper layer is usually a more expensive or desirable wood, such as mahogany or cherry, whereas the underside will be a cheaper plywood or pine.

Engineering flooring is different than what is called hardwood; a hardwood floor is a solid piece of one type of wood. The engineered flooring tiles or slats will be more affordable than hardwood, since you're only getting that thin top layer of the more desirable wood, but it's still real timber and not an artificial material that is made to look like wood.

Is a laminate floor the same as a timber floor?

A laminate floor consists of a layer of plywood and a paper design that looks like wood is applied over this layer. On top of the photograph is a wear layer or coating to protect it from scuffs and scratches. The paper design is typically very high-quality and detailed and will closely resemble real wood, but it's not the same as actual timber flooring.

Is all timber flooring bad for the environment?

Many people are worried about cutting down the rainforests for the timber used in construction, but most wood used for home flooring is taken from sustainable forests. These are forests that are maintained specifically for wood needed for construction. Recycled or reclaimed timber can also be used for flooring, as this wood is usually pressed and treated so it stays strong and dense and offers years of life. Bamboo is also very eco-friendly, as it grows very quickly and is easy to replenish.

Note, too, that all wood continues to "breathe" even after it's cut. Your timber floors may pull in poor-quality air and clean it before expelling it, keeping the atmosphere and environment in your home very clean and healthy. In many ways, timber floors can be better for the environment than any other choice.