With all the choices for home flooring, it's easy to get lost in the process. It's important to remember that many viewpoints regarding flooring are based on personal preference, not fact. For example, some people rave about the beauty and longevity of laminate flooring, while others enjoy the warmth and comfort of carpet. Evaluating what's important to you is a surefire way to make sure you end up with flooring that will complete your lifestyle and budget.
One of the flooring types that many people overlook is parquet. Today's marketplace focuses its attention on long strips and planks, but parquet has much to offer the modern home. A parcel floor is made from many pieces of wood that are fitted together like a mosaic tile. It can incorporate many different shades and grain patterns with some of the most popular being herringbone and brick style. With this in mind, each piece of parquet tells a story of its own and leads to a very unique and interesting home flooring type.
Traditionally, parquet is made from a solid wood construction, making it very durable and long lasting. You can also sand down the tiles and refinish them at a later date. With the market making its shift towards laminate, there are also suites that feature a veneer top over layers of particleboard. However, these cheaper parquets do not have the same quality and character as solid wood. Also remember that while laminate parquet may be cheaper to purchase, it can not be finished at a later date.
If you consider some of the places where wood parquet flooring is installed, you'll notice that you've probably seen it in ballrooms or apartment buildings. This is because this type of flooring is very strong and durable and will continue to age well with time. Best of all, parquet flooring is inexpensive and actually considered to be the cheapest wood flooring type. Installation is quite easy as well, as most can be glued down onto a subfloor. Parquet is also quite forgiving, even as it acclimates to its temperature.
Although parquet has much to offer, you may want to consider the few drawbacks to this home flooring option. For example, solid wood parquet has the same vulnerabilities as wood, so you will not want to install it in wet areas or below-grade applications. If water does see through, it can cause the tiles to warp, lift or discolor. And, some people feel that parquet is far too busy for their home. If you enjoy a clean and seamless appearance, wood planks or strips may suit you better.
Parquet home flooring is just one of the many options that can offer your home a clean, updated appearance. Affordable and made from solid wood, this flooring selection will be the only investment you'll need to make, as parquet is sure to stand the test of time.