Hybrid flooring: Great new Innovation or Just Another Laminate Floor?
In this digital age when we are constantly bombarded with clever marketing campaigns and unrealistic claims, it is easy to fall into the trap of being sceptical about new “best ever” products that we come across. It can be difficult to look at new products with an open mind when they appear.
Hybrid Flooring is a product that has certainly had a big impact in the relatively short period since its introduction. In fact, its still so new, you may not have even heard of it prior to reading this article.
So what is Hybrid Flooring and is it any good?
The simple answer is Yes! Hybrid flooring is a great product innovation that has successfully fused the benefits of laminate flooring and vinyl plank flooring with an authentic timber look that is both functional and aesthetically pleasing.
Essentially Hybrid flooring has a core of limestone and PVC that does not absorb moisture (100% waterproof) whilst being very durable. The top layer is made up of vinyl together with a hard-wearing clear top layer whilst most products also contain a built-in underlay on the bottom of each board. The final result is a fusion of the benefits of both the laminate and vinyl plank alternatives.
And the benefits?
Traditionally, laminate flooring has a reputation for being noisy underfoot and susceptible to deterioration when too much moisture is present. Hybrid flooring is 100% waterproof and much quieter underfoot.
Similarly, vinyl plank flooring has always required a high degree of sub floor preparation followed by a full trowel of adhesive making it a little more of a complex to install. Hybrid Flooring requires little to no subfloor preparation and is installed complete with a built-in underlay in one easy step with no adhesive or additional underlays required.
Hybrid flooring is a genuine innovation to the point where many people now expect this product will see laminate flooring go the way of video tapes and CD’s, for ever consigned to history.
What should you look for in a high-quality Hybrid Flooring product?
As you would expect, there are a range of different qualities between different brands of Hybrid Flooring. It is important when you choose your floor that you check with your flooring consultant about some of the key considerations.
Better quality products will include the following types of benefits;
- How true to life is the wood grain design, generally a poor timber design reflects on the make up of the rest of the product.
- How does the product perform under the hot sun, Will it shrink? Does it Fade?
- Does the product meet the P3 anti slip requirement if being used on a stair case? Does it have a compatible stair-nosing accessory to use on stair-cases
- What is the acoustic performance of the product, is it suitable for use in multi-level apartments that require products with low sound transmission?
- What is the make-up of the core and click system, is it a strong connection and not too brittle?
Want to know more about Hybrid Floors?
Unsurprisingly, prices for hybrid flooring do vary and as the old saying goes you generally get what you pay for. At Bosch Timber Floors, our consultants are happy to show you the different options. We have great displays of quality Hybrid Flooring in our showrooms.
For more information and advice on the right floor for your home visit us at either of our locations at Wangara and Myaree.
Richard Catlin
Owner Manager
