There was vinyl first, and then there was laminate. The aptly called 'hybrid flooring' is the newest kid on the floor covering block.
The term "hybrid flooring" means precisely what it says. It combines two of the most popular – and well-known – flooring alternatives currently available. Hybrid flooring can do things that traditional flooring can't without sacrificing the final look or the all-important underfoot comfort.
Do you want to learn more about Hybrid Flooring causing a stir in Australia? Below, we respond to some of the most frequently asked questions about hybrid flooring.
Hybrid flooring is the newest innovation, combining the best elements of laminate and vinyl to create a durable floating floor that can be used throughout the house. Hybrid is made up of multiple layers of materials that have been crushed together to create a highly resilient base.
The following are the layers:
Hybrid flooring has been considered the "next generation" of flooring. It's the first hard flooring solution that isn't room-specific because it's 100 per cent waterproof (not merely water-resistant). As a result, hybrid flooring can be installed in every part of your home, including the kitchen, laundry room, and even the bathroom.
Traditional laminate flooring should never be used in spaces where wetness is a concern, but the waterproof hybrid flooring is ideal in these situations.
Finally, long-lasting, hardwood-look flooring that you can install any place in the house!
Hybrid flooring has a high level of durability. Because the limestone composite core board is entirely watertight and can handle both direct heat and cold. The boards expand and contract very little, even with underfloor heating or changing temperatures. As a result, your flooring will not rise, fracture, or buckle as the temperature changes.
Hybrid flooring is odour-proof thanks to the same technology that makes it waterproof. What is the significance of this? The flooring is odour-proof, and the non-scratch surface and stain resistance makes it ideal for use in pet-friendly homes.
Hybrid flooring has a "click-together" architecture (also known as a "floating floor" structure) that allows anyone to install it. However, you should carefully study the flooring instructions to see if there are any special installation requirements you should be aware of ahead of time.
#1. You must first measure the space before beginning the installation. This step is vital to ensure that you purchase the correct amount of hybrid planks for your project.
#2. A tape measure, tapping block chalk line, crosscut power saw, pencil, mallet, pry bar, and tape are required for a standard flooring installation. Trims, moulding, and safety glasses may be needed for the project. Check the installation instructions that come with the flooring for a complete list of the equipment and materials you'll need.
#3. Remove any furniture, old flooring (if necessary) and any reusable wall trims or bases with care. Your subfloor should be cleaned and dried. The subfloor must be stable, level, dry, and free of debris. Check for flaws, as uneven subfloors can cause hybrid flooring to wear out prematurely.
If you require any further repairs, now is the time to do so. Before laying hybrid flooring, make sure the concrete subfloor has fully cured (about 60 days). After checking that your subfloor and site conditions meet installation standards, move on to the next phase.
#4. In most cases, a release-type adhesive is used to place the underlayment, and the flooring entirely adheres. Check the installation instructions to see if you require underlays.
#5. Hybrid flooring installation is often started near the end of the longest stretch. It's critical to arrange your structure on paper first to determine where you'll need to cut. Remember to provide an expansion gap (6 to 10 mm) on the sides and ends of the flooring to account for expansion and contraction caused by temperature changes.
If an off-cut from a previous row satisfies the recommended length criteria, it should be utilized to start the next row during laying. Also, double-check that the flooring is completely aligned and secured. Place wedges as you lay the flooring to maintain the expansion gap.
#6. Install skirting boards after removing wedges and spacers. If any trimming is necessary, ensure it does not damage expansion gaps. Clean the floor with the cleaner that was advised.
The following are some of the advantages of hybrid flooring: