By the very nature of Flooring Choices, there’s a surprising amount of misinformation floating around. It’s incredible how myths about something as essential as the flooring beneath your feet can linger and mislead, often making your decision more complicated than it needs to be.
You could’ve been sifting through options for weeks or just started your search, and the wrong advice can cloud your judgement. Now, sure, you may have heard some of these before. Some of them are so ingrained in our collective consciousness that we don’t even think to question them.
Here, we’re busting ten common flooring myths and serving up the clarity you deserve.
Myth No. 1: The Myth of Hardwood Being Too Much to Care For
Hardwood flooring unfairly carries a reputation for being fragile and difficult to maintain. Some people envision hours of scrubbing and endless fretting over every spill. The truth? Modern hardwood finishes are far more durable than you might think. A simple cleaning routine involving soft brooms and a damp mop will keep it looking stunning.
And yes, life happens—spills and scratches are bound to occur, but these don’t always spell disaster. Small nicks add character, while substantial wear can be managed with refinishing. Hardwood is like that dependable friend—it takes a lot more than a minor mishap to ruin the relationship.
Myth No. 2: Laminate Looks Cheap and Always Feels Fake
If you think laminate is the fast-food equivalent of flooring, think again. Thanks to advancements in design, Laminate has come a long way from its earlier renditions. It now offers textures and finishes that resemble wood, stone, or even tile. With proper installation, it can bring a high-end aesthetic without pushing the budget limit.
And while it may lack the weight of real hardwood, its durability and practicality make it a savvy choice for homes with kids or pets. Don’t underestimate laminate—it has grown into a stylish option that pairs beauty with function.
Myth No. 3: Carpets Are a Magnet for Allergies
People with allergies often give carpeted floors the side-eye, believing they trap allergens like dust and dander. But here’s the twist—carpets can actually help reduce allergens in the air. How? They act as a filter, catching particles that vacuuming can easily remove. A high-quality vacuum fitted with a HEPA filter paired with regular cleaning is your golden ticket here.
Plus, there are carpets specifically designed to minimise allergens, so banning them altogether out of fear may not be necessary.
Myth No. 4: Vinyl is Old-Fashioned and Unreliable
When you think vinyl, if you’re picturing outdated flooring from years ago, it’s time to reset your perspective. Luxury Vinyl Planks (LVP) and Luxury Vinyl Tiles (LVT) have revolutionised the category, pairing aesthetics with resilience. From water resistance to ease of installation, vinyl can offer a practical flooring solution that doesn’t skimp on elegance.
Whether you’re aiming for a contemporary vibe or something more traditional, modern vinyl can blend seamlessly with your vision. It’s not stuck in the past—neither should your perception be.
Myth No. 5: Tile Flooring is Only Suited to Kitchens and Bathrooms
While tiles shine in wet areas, limiting them to these spaces does them a disservice. Large, open-plan living areas with tiles have become increasingly popular, especially in warmer climates. Tiles are cool underfoot, easy to clean, and come in virtually endless styles.
There’s also the option to use textured tiles that provide more grip, making them suitable for spaces like hallways or even outdoors. Don’t box tiles into a specific role—they can easily redefine your living room or entranceway.
Myth No. 6: Engineered Wood is a Poor Substitute for Solid Hardwood
Engineered Wood often gets written off as a cheaper, less elegant version of solid hardwood. But this assumes it’s the understudy in a play where hardwood is the star. Engineered wood offers a real timber surface layer with multi-ply construction underneath that enhances stability and minimises expansion and contraction.
This makes it better suited for areas with fluctuating temperatures or humidity levels. Far from being a compromise, it’s an intelligent choice for modern homes and can last for decades with appropriate care.
Myth No. 7: Dark Floors Make Spaces Look Smaller and Gloomier
This myth likely stems from the belief that darker colours always overpower a room. While dark floors can create a dramatic, moody ambience, they don’t necessarily shrink a space. Pairing them with lighter walls, large windows, and bright decor can balance their intensity and enhance the room’s proportions.
Additionally, they’re fantastic for concealing footprints and minor blemishes, particularly in high-traffic zones. Done right, dark flooring can exude warmth and sophistication rather than make you feel boxed in.
Myth No. 8: Eco-Friendly Flooring is Always Too Expensive
Sustainable choices are often perceived as luxe, but in flooring, there’s a range of environmentally friendly options to suit different budgets. Bamboo, for example, is both renewable and cost-effective. Cork floors, another eco-friendly option, offer natural insulation and a unique aesthetic.
Even reclaimed wood can deliver an eco-conscious solution with a charmingly rustic appeal. Sustainability doesn’t have to drain your wallet; it’s about knowing your options and choosing accordingly.
Myth No. 9: Underfloor Heating Only Works With Tiles
Many people assume underfloor heating and tiles are a package deal, but that’s far from the truth. Engineered wood, laminate, vinyl, and even carpeting—all can accommodate underfloor systems, provided they’re compatible.
For instance, engineered wood allows heat to transfer effectively without a risk of deformation. With expert advice, you can pair warm, cosy heating with whichever flooring style you prefer. You’re not locked into tiles if warmth underfoot is your main goal.
Myth No. 10: You Should Stick to the Same Flooring Throughout Your House
Consistency might sound appealing, but that doesn’t mean every room should look identical. Different spaces serve different purposes, and your flooring choices should reflect that. Bedrooms might benefit from the softness of carpet, while kitchens demand something robust like tiles or vinyl.
Hallways can hold up better with scratch-resistant options, while living rooms can shine with engineered wood or laminate. Tailoring the room of your choice by room not only elevates your home but also allows each space to fulfill its potential without compromise.
Key Takeaways
Flooring decisions come with their share of myths, and it’s easy to see why they persist. But armed with the right information, you can sidestep these common misconceptions and make a confident, informed choice.
If you’re ready to turn great flooring ideas into reality, Clique Floors is the name to keep in mind. With multiple flooring options to services from installation, levelling, and grinding for both, commercial and residential spaces, that’s an all-in-one service that’s hard to beat.
With the myths out of the way, it’s time to take your next step—literally!
