Difference Between Timber And Tile Flooring

The term tile flooring is in use these days for a number of floorings. One of the most common is ceramic tiles flooring which is made from fired clay, ceramic with glazed clay or porcelain. They can be implemented in areas that tend to be slippery as they are available in shining as well as rough surfaces.

Timber flooring is generally available as laminated flooring, hardwood flooring, bamboo flooring and engineered flooring. One of the most commonly used timber flooring is the hardwood flooring that is made from hardwood. In Singapore, the term Parquet flooring refers to wooden flooring when the size of the planks used is small. If planks beyond a certain size are used, then the flooring is called timber flooring.

Here are few parameters on the basis of which one can draw out differences between wooden and tiled flooring:

1. Style/Finishing:
Flooring made of tiles is the fastest growing trend and is credited with being available in maximum varieties of color and patterns. These days, pretty stylish tiles of 800mm X 800mm are available in the market. Tiles are being produced using nanotechnology that enables the top layer of the tiles to me made of very fine particles. These particles are resistant to dust and are instrumental in keeping the tiles clean for long.

Wooden flooring gives a rich and stylish look and feel. The multiplicity of patterns available renders a feeling of warmth to the floor.

Following treatments can be used to add shine to the floor: Water-based urethane treatment. Oil-modified urethane, Moisture-cured urethane treatment. Paste wax, Lacquer, Varnish, Shellac treatment.

2. Maintenance:
 It is quite easy to clean the tiles and a simple wipe will do the trick. They are also maintenance free once they have been leveled and installed properly.

Compared to tiled flooring, timber requires a little more maintenance. Timber floor is mainly threatened by water hence it is necessary that water be wiped off immediately if it falls on its surface. It is best cleaned daily by a vacuum cleaner and a damp mop. Dragging furniture on timber is a strict no. It also requires polishing at intervals of 5-6 years.

3. Advantages:
Tiles come with a number of inherent advantages. These can be listed as follows: Strength. Easy to clean and maintain. High abrasion resistance. Fire proof Good Insulators. Bacteria free Easy to lay and ready for use in a matter of 48 hours after laying . Availability in many shades. Anti slip variant available.

Timber flooring is known to create warmth in the room it is being used in as it is resistant to cold and this is what makes it an ideal choice for places with low temperatures. Timber flooring appears cozy and luxurious and it is easy to give a designer look to the room with timber flooring.

4. Disadvantages:
 Tiles are easy to break and are slippery too. They also get very cold under the feet and hence need to be combined with some other cold resistant flooring in very cold areas.

Timber flooring also has its fair share of disadvantages. It collects dust easily and hence there is a requirement of regular cleaning. They are also prone to a termite attack and are not fire resistant too. The sealer also emits chemical fumes which affects the health of the residents during installation. Heavy usage may also lead to discoloration.