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Laminate, plank and parquet flooring

There are virtually no limits to the creative wealth of ideas when it comes to flooring design. In addition to stone floors, wooden floors are also enjoying ever-increasing popularity. In general, the natural look is a real eye-catcher in almost any ambience. But it all depends on the quality of the flooring. And so, in this context, the main question is the advantages and disadvantages of parquet, planks or laminate.

Parquet flooring or planks of real wood "spoil" the senses in different respects. Because not only the eye "enjoys" it to let the view wander over the grains and the often numerous growth rings. But also the feeling of warmth and comfort arises immediately with floors made of parquet.

Differences between planks and parquet

By the way, planks are solid boards, which are equipped with tongue and groove on the long sides. Today, however, planks are available, which are provided with tongue and groove all around. In this case, we are talking about the so-called system plank. A product that is particularly easy to install and impresses with its high durability.

As a rule, solid parquet consists of solid wood, which is about eight to 20 millimeters thick. This wood is usually connected to the subfloor by nailing or gluing. However, this thickness now and then contributes to the fact that touch-up work may arise with certain problems. That you should also already when buying wood parquet make sure that the natural material used comes from sustainable cultivation, it goes without saying.

Parquet knowledge: It is worth knowing that parquet made of real or solid wood can only be used as flooring after a certain phase of storage, because wood "continues to work" even after being beaten. Due to this "special treatment" (wood) parquet is usually much more expensive than other floor coverings. If you consider that the price is reflected, so to speak, on the longer life of wood parquet, such "extra costs" are usually quite justified.

Another crucial aspect is that parquet floors made of wood can usually be sanded several times. This does not (always) require a complete overhaul. But if the surface of the parquet floor is covered with a layer of oil or wax, a partial revision is also possible at will.

Parquet wood species and finished parquet

The types of wood that are most commonly installed in plank or parquet floors are:

• Birch parquet
• Beech parquet
• Maple parquet
• Oak parquet
• Spruce parquet
• Larch parquet

Incidentally, today also offers ready-made parquet. High quality combined with ease of installation is thus guaranteed.

Parquet advantages and parquet floor sanding

Meanwhile, parquet floors are even designed in such a way that they can be used even in the wet areas of a house. Thanks to their special surface texture, bathrooms and kitchens shine with a natural, first-class look.

Unlike laminate, oiled parquet flooring is also a very good "base" for regulating the climate in the room. In particular, the high insensitivity of this floor undoubtedly "sticks out" the laminate, which is usually visually similar.

However, when it comes to extending parquet floors or replacing parts subsequently, it sometimes becomes difficult. This is because one plank is never the same as another, so the search for suitable boards or planks may prove to be a lengthy process. Of course, for many consumers, the purchase price is the main factor.

Laminate flooring, high-quality laminate and cheap laminate differences

high quality laminate, hardness grade 33 with a dense, minimal spacing, cost: 12,- EUR sqm

cheap beech laminate with a damage caused by a dropped iron from a height of about 1.50m

If you want a natural look in your own four walls, but at the same time want to save money, you should choose einen neat laminate flooring.

Laminate flooring is usually equipped with special impact sound insulation at the factory so that no annoying noises can be transmitted to the rooms below. Thanks to innovative production processes, it is now difficult to distinguish high-quality laminate from parquet.

In any case, however, make sure to invest at least EUR 10 per square meter for your laminate. So you usually get at least the degree of hardness 31 for heavier loads (household with children), with bargains even times a 33 laminate.

CAUTION: Just laying cheap laminate is often a real challenge, especially for inexperienced hobby craftsmen. Even if this laminate is called "click laminate", the laying often has little to do with a "click", because tongue and groove usually do not fit as perfectly into each other as is the case with high-quality laminate.

Furthermore, there are regularly larger distance gaps through which moisture can easily penetrate. These occur even more when sawing, because the cheap laminate is much softer.

Buying parquet

Laying parquet is comparatively easy today. Even the rather inexperienced do-it-yourselfer will quickly manage to lay the floor himself in his own four walls thanks to the practical click connections. But certainly in this context it is particularly important to have good preparation. For example, the more precisely the amount of wood or parquet required in each case is calculated, the better.

It makes sense, by the way, to add about three percent waste to the calculated square meter quantity. Because wood is a natural material and it is known to "work" even after being cut, it is advisable to store the still closed packages for at least two days in the room to be renovated. In this way, the material can best adapt to the new climatic conditions.

Types of parquet laying

Floating or gluing? This question certainly arises in this context.

Here are the advantages and disadvantages:

Laying parquet floating

Advantages	Disadvantages
Ideal for good impact sound insulation	Comparatively short service life
No special requirements for the subfloor	The parquet can give way when walking
Inexpensive, environmentally friendly	Constant load stretches the joints over time
Easy removal is guaranteed

Gluing parquet

Advantages	Disadvantages
"Automatic" impact sound insulation	Relatively costly
No special requirements for the substrate	Contains solvents due to adhesive
Lasts for many years	Rarely reusable
Can also be laid in conjunction with underfloor heating systems

Laying parquet instructions

Impact sound insulation on a roll.

It is important to make sure that the surface on which the parquet will be laid, is flat, dry and free of dents and cracks. If there are still unevennesses, they should be completely removed.

After that, it is necessary to lay a so-called vapor barrier. The experienced do-it-yourselfer knows that such a vapor barrier later protects the valuable parquet against moisture penetrating from below. For this purpose, a foil is placed underneath, which is pulled up about three to five centimeters on each side. Special fixing â€" also at the seams â€" makes sense.

Last but not least, an impact sound insulation is laid flush over it, which must also be securely and stably fixed. .

Next, it is necessary to check whether the walls of the room are straight and square. If not, small spacer wedges will help level out any unevenness, making it even easier to lay the parquet.

NOTE: By the way, here, too, should take into account the fact that wood 'works': accordingly, it is necessary to maintain a minimum distance of about one centimeter between the parquet and the walls. As a rule, it is not a pretty sight when later joints are visible in the floor. For this reason, experts advise to lay the parquet exactly in the direction of incidence of daylight. This ensures that joints are virtually invisible later on.

First of all, after cutting the first plank with the groove in the direction of the wall. Then the second plank is laid: it is connected directly to the first one at its front side with the help of a hammer and a tapping block. The same procedure is followed for the remaining planks in the row.

The last board must be cut to fit exactly and then brought into the correct position - preferably with a so-called pull iron. When it comes to laying the following rows, the planks are nevertheless connected to the previously laid row with a hammer and tapping block. Depending on the size of the room, it is advisable to install an expansion joint profile. Thus, the natural material wood later receives a sufficient amount of 'play'.

The last row in the room usually turns out to be a little more difficult, because here you need to work especially carefully with regard to the correct dimensions. It is best to first draw the contours of the room wall and saw the boards to fit accordingly.

If, in turn, when laying the parquet, you take to the aid of the drawbar, the laying of the remaining pieces almost goes by itself. After the last piece has been successfully laid, it is only necessary to remove the spacers and wooden wedges. A harmonious overall appearance is then the immediate 'reward' for this demanding work.

Parquet care

Parquet floors are of high quality, they contribute in a special way to a sophisticated room ambience, but they are sometimes very sensitive. Certainly, today parquet floors are already available, which are equipped with a special surface coating. This even allows laying parquet in the kitchen and bathroom. But nevertheless parquet wants to be treated with a certain care.

Causes of damage to parquet

The most common causes of damage in the parquet floor can be:

• Wear and tear after years of use
• abrasion (by chairs and tables)
• Scratches (caused by falling objects)
• Dents (caused by gravel or small stones under shoe soles)
• Moisture damage (water penetration, floor cleaning too wet)

Parquet damage repair

Smaller repairs can be easily repaired with a few home remedies. For example, a lot can be done with water, a sponge and an iron.

When a little water is poured into the crack or depression with the sponge, it should then be made to evaporate with the help of the iron. During this process, the wood fibers absorb the water and can regain their 'old' volume. The heat of the iron will accelerate the water absorption a little. However, it is important to repeat the process several times to ensure that the depressed area `moves` back to its original position.

Even slight scratches in the surface of the floor can often be removed relatively easily. For this purpose, it is sometimes sufficient to rub the affected area with a few drops of (colorless or color-matching) furniture polish. In this way, the areas in the floor that have been lightened by the scratches are smoothed out. In addition, the ingredients contained in the polish form a protective film on the parquet: first, the product is applied selectively. Then the liquid, which may still be contained in the polishing cloth, is rubbed over a large area of the parquet. In this way, no difference can be seen later.

Parquet floor repair instructions

But what if extensive repair work needs to be done? Which would be the case, among other things, if over the years the parquet has become shabby and lost its appeal. Particularly common is the damaged deterioration of the floor in the entrance areas of apartments or offices, as the parquet here is usually worn much more quickly.

In addition, desk chairs or frequent moving of tables or shelves back and forth also contribute to the surface of the parquet floor becoming pitted or showing signs of wear.

In this case, it makes sense to sand, reseal or oil the parquet. Thus, a new overall appearance of the floor can be achieved and the area will look 'like new'. This is a very labor-intensive and time-consuming undertaking, which may require four or five sanding operations.

Depending on the floor condition, sanding belts in grit sizes 24, 36, 60 and 100 are used. For the basic sand ing, grit size 24 is used to remove paint residue, varnish and other depressions without leaving any residue.

This is followed by medium sanding to remove ugly grooves that may have appeared during the first sanding pass. Fine sand ing can then be used to restore a beautiful, smooth surface finish.

With the sanding machine, one always works from left to right. The machine is pushed forward and then pulled back again in the same track (and at the same speed). The next row is pulled back by about half a track width. Clean and careful work is required during this process. This is the only way to avoid ugly depressions in the floor. For this reason, the grinding roller is raised slightly both at the beginning and at the end of each track and then lowered again slowly.

Usually, for the remaining edges in the room, one uses a so-called disc edge sander. Here, too, work must be done in such a way that no transitions are visible later. Because the sanding work generates a lot of dust, the cleaning work is generally very extensive. In the end, however, you can enjoy the new, 'shiny' look.

Sanding and sealing parquet

As they say in expert circles: "Good parquet is like a cat. The fact that you can really do a lot with high-quality parquet and give the room an upscale ambience in this way justifies the usually higher price that you pay for the purchase or installation of parquet flooring in any case.

However, parquet floors are usually very sensitive. And so careful handling of the valuable floor covering is a matter of course.
Over time, however, signs of wear, scratches or slight damage contribute to the fact that parquet looks unsightly, dull and dilapidated. This is not a serious problem, because the surface can be easily treated after years of use, so that the parquet looks "like new" again.

Unlike other floor coverings, parquet is the only one which, depending on its thickness, can be completely renovated several times. By the way, in the course of the work can be improved not only the surface finish, but also change the style of the parquet floor.

To make the parquet "shine in new splendor" usually requires a lot of time and effort. But it is worth it. The fact is, however, that one-time sanding is by no means enough. Rather, several work steps are required in this context to achieve a perfect result. It is best to consult an experienced professional for this work.

However, if you would like to carry out the complete parquet renovation on your own, the construction trade (construction equipment rental) offers the possibility of borrowing the appropriate equipment for a small fee.

The following devices / utensils are needed for the renovation work:

• a belt sander
• a disc edge sander
• sanding belts in different grits (coarse to fine)
• (industrial) vacuum cleaner

For the sealing:

• Primer
• oil or
• Glaze or varnish

Sanding parquet instructions and removing parquet paint

Using the coarse grit sanding belt, the first thing to do is to remove the paint or varnish layer without leaving any residue. For this purpose, it makes sense to use the 24 or 36 grit. Then the 60 grit is used. This makes the surface of the floor even and smooth. Incidentally, it can happen that during the sanding process small gaps or depressions appear in the floor. However, these can be removed very easily with the help of special sanding dust or with joint putty.

Sanding parquet with disc edge sander

This work is followed by fine sanding. If possible, sanding belts with a grit of 100 or 120 are used for this purpose, as they help to create a particularly smooth surface.

Because it is usually difficult to sand the edges of the room without problems, the disc edge sander is usually used. This is done in the same way as with the first sander: after the coarse grit, use the medium grit; only then is the fine sanding done.

Parquet floor cleaning and surface treatment

By the way, it is recommended to carefully vacuum the floor after each sanding. After all, in the course of the work creates a lot of dust, which can easily spread to the other rooms.

To ensure that the surface of the parquet really looks like new after sanding, the surface treatment is now carried out. In this way, you can easily set new accents. A special varnish or oiling of the wood can even be used to change the appearance as desired.

By the way, an oil coating should be applied twice if possible. After that, it should be left to harden at leisure. Sealing the parquet, on the other hand, primarily requires priming, intermediate sanding, and then applying a layer of varnish several times.

And already the floor shines in a new, shiny look!

Types and price of parquet

As is well known, there is no accounting for taste. As different as the tastes of consumers are today, so extensive is the wealth of ideas of manufacturers when it comes to parquet flooring. Because for every room ambience, for every need and for every budget is now available suitable parquet flooring.

The solid parquet as well as the modern prefabricated parquet belong to the probably most well-known parquet types.

Parquet variants

• Click parquet
• Cork parquet
• Stick parquet
• Bamboo parquet
• board parquet or
• Inlay parquet
• Mosaic parquet
• lamellar parquet and
• Industrial parquet
• Two-layer parquet
• Ecological parquet

Solid parquet and ecological parquet

Solid par quet belongs to the "classic" variant and is one of the most durable types of parquet. It can be reworked several times and is therefore virtually "unbeatable" in contrast to simple laminate. For it it has however also the purchase price "in itself": usually per square meter about sixty to 85 euro are to be paid. A cost expenditure, which is worthwhile itself however, because massif parquet is durable over many generations.

Ecological par quet is wood that is made exclusively from renewable raw materials. Only wood species that grow back comparatively quickly are used here. Of course, only environmentally friendly materials are used in the further processing, so that the floor is one hundred percent biodegradable.

As a rule, the manufacturing process is accompanied by a much higher expenditure of time and money, so that the eco-parquet price per square meter can be about 70 to 80 euros. Consequently, it is sometimes worthwhile to go in search of remnants or bargain suppliers to save a euro or two.

Click parquet, bamboo parquet and cork parquet

Click parquet can be laid floating. That is, neither glue nor other materials are required, so it is possible even for laymen to successfully lay the parquet floor in their own homes. Depending on the qualitative nature, Klichk parquet is often available at reasonable prices. The price per square meter here is about 15 to 20 euros, and therefore, in contrast to the bamboo parquet is a real "bargain".

Bamboo parquet is considered to be extremely flexible and versatile, and it also impresses with its high load-bearing capacity. These properties are usually reflected in the price. The purchase price for high-quality bamboo parquet is on average about 40 to 50 euros. It should be noted whether the material is already waxed, lacquered or oiled.

Also with the cork parquet it depends in price regard on the (surface) condition. Moreover, the thinner it is, the cheaper. And so cork parquet is available in stores today, which costs about 19 to 25 euros per square meter.

Strip parquet, panel parquet and inlay parquet

The so-called strip parquet is the highest quality type of parquet, which is produced industrially. Solvent-free dispersion adhesives are always used for bonding to the substrate. Overall, it is guaranteed a very high durability. In contrast to prefabricated parquet, strip parquet is therefore also the most expensive type of flooring. Per square meter, a purchase price of 35 to 85 euros can be expected.

The undercoating of panel parquet or inlay parquet usually consists of wafer-thin (paper) materials. This, in turn, pushes the cost down a little further. Thus, panel parquet is often available in specialized stores for as little as eight to 10 euros per square meter.

Mosaic parquet, industrial parquet and two-layer parquet

Mosaic parquet is on the other hand by far more complex in the production. Here, individual rods are fixed to a substrate, each achieving a special surface appearance. But not only the interesting look, but also the long life speaks for mosaic parquet. Depending on the wood used, mosaic parquet costs approximately between 13 and 39 euros per square meter.

Industrial par quet usually uses particularly hard wood species (often exotic woods). Because here a particularly high resistance is in demand. Accordingly, the purchase price is also comparatively high: High-edge lamella parquet or industrial parquet often costs around 35 to 40 euros per square meter.

The cost of two-layer par quet, on the other hand, varies. In this regard, the (precious) wood types used and the surface finish play a role. The price per square meter for two-layer parquet can be between 25 and 45 euros.

SAVING TIP:Think carefully about which type of parquet you really need or want. A detailed cost comparison is therefore always worthwhile. Occasionally, you can even get high-quality parquet types cheaper in specialized stores than in DIY stores.

Parquet costs effort and labor

Parquet flooring is highly valued primarily for its attractive, "warm" appearance. In general, parquet is warm to the feet and, in the opinion of most house and apartment owners, is an extremely pleasant floor covering that creates a cozy atmosphere in any room.

Nevertheless, many consumers decide to combine the parquet floor with underfloor heating. But the fact is that such an undertaking, as a rule, involves a lot of work and expense. By the way, the preliminary planning is of particular relevance. After all, the materials used for this purpose must be coordinated as carefully as possible, because not every material is actually "compatible" with the other. Expert, professional support is therefore always useful in the context of this extensive work.

Underfloor heating prepare subfloor

For example, it is absolutely essential - if not already available - that the substrate be prepared in a special way. This should in any case be suitably robust and fireproof. Furthermore, it must also be suitable for the permanent installation of a panel heating system. What is equally important in this regard is the observance of certain standards. The qualified heating specialist will know what to do. And also the material composition of the parquet floor itself should absolutely have certain properties, so that the combination with a (panel) heating is possible in the first place.

Experts therefore advise to use as a "base" so-called heating screed. If this is not yet available, it must be retrofitted in any case. Safety and preventive fire protection have top priority here. With regard to the pipes to be laid, it is advisable to use preferably copper pipes. Experience has shown that copper pipes are very stable and reliable in combination with parquet flooring.

Underfloor heating suitable parquet

But which parquet is optimal for combination with underfloor heating? It is not only the fact that parquet per se is a natural material that "works", i.e. expands and contracts, that must be taken into account. But due to the heat that a surface heating radiates almost continuously, especially in winter, the parquet is exposed to an even more intensive load. For this reason, exotic woods are usually considered, such as olive, bamboo or doussie. Less expensive, but equally resistant are, however, our domestic wood species, such as walnut or oak.

Of course, parquet flooring in conjunction with underfloor heating depends above all on the installation technique itself. It is recommended here to rely exclusively on fully glued parquet instead of "floating". In the case of the former, the heat emitted by the underfloor heating system has a much "harder time". After all, it is necessary to penetrate the air cushion on the one hand, and the film on the other. In the course of this, a decisive proportion of energy is lost in the case of floating parquet. If, on the other hand, the floor is glued down, the valuable energy can be released into the ambient air without "detours" and without being "held up" or "slowed down" by too many layers.

Of course, the surface texture of parquet is also important. If glazed finishes are often used for "classic" parquet flooring without underfloor heating, it is preferable to use oiled surfaces for parquet in conjunction with underfloor heating. In this way, the pores of the wood remain open and can thus "breathe" in peace. Overall, it is therefore always important to use materials that are characterized by the lowest possible heat loss. This saves valuable energy in the long run - and cash!

What to look for parquet with underfloor heating

• it depends on the use of suitable parquet flooring
• the condition of the subfloor is crucial
• the preparations play a decisive role
• heating temperatures should not exceed 25 to 27 degrees.

Why should you still go to the hardware store around the corner, when you can also go on the search for high-quality parquet in the world wide web? Both in the specialized trade of the confidence the selection is usually large, and in on-line Shop. Certainly, in the opinion of many consumers, the good and above all personal advice speaks for itself in the first place. However, not in every local specialized trade one actually always encounters really qualified personnel who understand their craft. Reason enough for many homeowners, apartment owners and builders to buy parquet online, because even in front of the home PC you can often enjoy numerous advantages. And this is true both in terms of pricing of products, as well as in terms of service and warranty.

Cost of parquet and payment options on the Internet

Apart from the tiresome search for a parking space, long lines in front of the cash registers or unfriendly sales staff, you often have it much easier on the Internet. The fact that most online retailers cooperate with other suppliers often eliminates warehousing costs and other financial expenses, which often reduces the price of the desired goods. Moreover, consumers have numerous opportunities to compare prices online. In this way, it is possible to save quite a bit in advance.

When buying parquet on the Internet, the secure payment systems also speak for themselves. High security standards protect customers during both the ordering and payment processes. Special security tools and other aspects ensure the necessary level of security and protection. Incidentally, in many stores consumers have the option of paying either by invoice, credit card, instant transfer, Paypal, direct debit or prepayment. In addition, financing purchases are also possible. The so-called Trustet Shops guarantee, a kind of "money-back guarantee," additionally protects the customer in a special way.

Service on-line parquet dealer

Naturally one does not have also in punkto "consultation" in this connection the Nachsehen. Because renowned online dealers offer special hotline support to benefit in this way from comprehensive and personal advice from qualified experts. So the service speaks for itself in any case. (Even if the ordered goods do not meet the requirements, the consumer has the chance to return the parquet). Most offerers grant even the possibility of the free collection. In addition, even experienced fitters or experts are available to install the parquet as desired on site. This is associated with a certain amount of additional work, but a similar approach is taken in conventional home improvement stores.

Online dealer warranty - buy parquet flooring online

Even with regard to the granting of guarantees, one is immensely flexible on the Internet. In addition to the usual statutory warranty of two years, consumers benefit from a variety of different, certified online providers on top of attractive "manufacturer warranties". These can be claimed over and above the warranty. Of course, wear and tear, improper use or improper care are excluded.

Advantages of online stores - ordering parquet online

Online stores thus obviously have a lot to offer. The most important advantages compared to the parquet purchase in the specialized trade locally are:

• the huge selection

• first-class, comprehensive service

• short delivery times

• favorable prices

• qualified advice

• assembly service on site

• no need to search for a parking space

• No long queues in front of the cash desks

• Long travel and transport distances do not have to be accepted

• Secure payment service

• Comprehensive warranty services

Industrial parquet prices - buy industrial parquet

The costs for the particularly robust industrial parquet, which is also known under the name (upright) lamella parquet, are usually very different. Thus, the price per square meter may well range from 20 to 50 euros. The flooring is so durable that even intensive use has virtually no negative impact on the surface condition of the material. On the contrary, industrial parquet can be used for many years without any problems and without showing signs of wear.

Accordingly, parquet for industry is, among other things, virtually predestined for installation in:

• Production halls
• warehouses
• schools, universities
• kindergartens, day care centers
• workshops
• hobby rooms
• office complexes, reception halls
• halls and so on

Industrial parquet production

It is the special density of the parquet that contributes to the fact that industrial parquet is so robust. In fact, upright lamella parquet is made of numerous, individual solid wood lamellas. According to experts, this is in a way a waste product, which is created during the production of mosaic parquet. Because here, too, smaller pieces of wood are used and fixed on a base next to each other.

In the case of industrial parquet, too, the individual wooden components are each fixed on edge to a special backing board. A decisive advantage of this is that on edge lamella parquet can even be sanded several times due to its density. This saves cost-intensive repair work sooner or later. Thus, the purchase price is amortized after a few years very well. With many other parquet variants, by the way, reconditioning by re-sanding is usually only possible to a limited extent, as the density of the surface does not allow this.

Industrial parquet properties

One of the special features of industrial or high-edge lamella parquet is that it can be laid on almost any subfloor. However, it is crucial that the base must be even and dry. In addition, depending on the room, care should be taken to ensure adequate insulation or soundproofing. When laying high-slat parquet on first floors, it is important that in any case, first of all, a special insulating layer is placed under it.

Although industrial parquet in itself is known for its pronounced stability, moisture and humidity penetrating from below are harmful to the entire flooring. Consequently, sanding the surface in this context would be pointless. The moisture could cause the parquet to swell and become uneven, or it could start to mold. A real health risk! Extensive and costly renovation work would thus be the consequence.

Preparing the subfloor - laying industrial parquet

Especially in factory halls, which are usually located at ground level, appropriate preparation work is therefore necessary. However, it is not always possible to lay industrial parquet or high-slat parquet as desired due to the particular height of the covering. In the event that the structure is too high, an alternative is to use conventional strip parquet. This is also very stable, but in comparison much thinner - and therefore again easier to lay.

According to experts, industrial parquet should, if possible, only be glued. Because only thereby a comprehensive, durable stability can be ensured. If, on the other hand, the flooring were to be laid in a floating manner, this would possibly result in the formation of ugly joints in the flooring due to the high stress. Here, too, costly and time-consuming touch-up work might be necessary.

If the high-slat parquet is to be replaced by new flooring after years of use, it is not advisable to lay new parquet on the existing surface. Rather, the old flooring must then be neatly removed and the substrate prepared again accordingly.

Environmentally friendly and comfortable

Normally, buildings in Europe are made of concrete, steel and glass - for the interior finish, domestic wood species are more likely to be used. But bamboo, as a type of wood from Asia, has long been one of the popular building materials in this part of the world. Bamboo grows predominantly in China and India, is used there for centuries as building material. But also in Europe the building industry appreciates in the meantime this high-quality material, which is besides easily available. Architects and craftsmen make particular use of the versatility of bamboo.

The range of applications in Asia extends from house construction and furniture manufacture to bridge structures. In Europe, the material is mainly used for interior finishing, and bamboo parquet has been on the market here for about 20 years. Various quality features make it a solid floor, which also harmonizes well with underfloor heating.

High quality - low environmental impact

A mature Moso bamboo trunk has high physical qualities. These include great elasticity and extreme hardness with easy processing. In addition, this material is durable and reliable, it has only a low swelling and shrinkage behavior. Compared to a European wood such as spruce, bamboo is highly superior in two areas: The compressive strength is two and a half times greater and the tensile strength one and a half times greater than that of spruce.

In addition, there are ecological aspects: Bamboo grows without the help of fertilizers and can be harvested for the first time after only three years. By comparison, larch needs ten years before it can be used as timber. For sustainability-oriented use, the usable biomass is also an important yardstick. Compared to concrete, bamboo requires only twelve percent of the energy needed to produce and use it as a material. These and other properties show that bamboo is a sustainable material and flooring material and can be used in many ways.

Good parquet - efficient underfloor heating

Bamboo can be processed excellently into floor parquet. This brings into the house all the properties that the building material parquet generally guarantees. It is durable and forms a stable, pleasant unit, especially when glued to the subfloor over the entire surface. It does not matter which of the many available variants is chosen for processing. Whether country house plank style, industrial parquet or bamboo plank nature: The traditional building material from Asia is always ready as a reliable partner.

These designs are some of the options for processing bamboo parquet in connection with underfloor heating (FBH). However, it is necessary to take into account a few things. Bamboo parquet is suitable only for hot water underfloor heating, it is not suitable for electric FBH systems. To maintain the value of the parquet floor, a room temperature of 20° Celsius and a relative humidity of 55 to 65 percent are ideal. Significant deviations from this will lead to the formation of gaps, and this, in turn, will affect the functionality of the underfloor heating system.

Wood flooring types and planks Wood types

It is indeed a smart sight when a wooden floor is resplendent in the apartment. In general, planks look classy, highly decorative and suitable in almost any ambience. No matter whether a futuristic style or rather the rustic type of furnishing is desired. It is important, however, that the quality of the planks does not leave anything to be desired. High-quality materials are of fundamental importance. But also the installation itself should be professional and well thought out.

Whether spruce, maple, oak, fir or pine, each of these species is well suited for use as a floorboard. Experts advise to store the planks for a few days, if possible, in the room where they will be installed. In this way, the natural material can best adapt to the new climatic conditions, and thus later less inclined to expand and contract. Nevertheless, the formation of joints is avoided as far as possible. By the way, it is quite possible to stack the boards on top of each other.

If you decide to buy pre-treated planks, the price will be affected, but this additional investment will pay off in the long run. Because the material becomes more resistant and it "works" less. In well-stocked specialty stores today are mostly offered planks, which are equipped with tongue and groove. Thus, laying the boards is facilitated in some respects, so that, as a result, it is possible even for the layman to professionally lay the new wooden floor.

Working steps - laying wooden floor

The following steps are to be carried out when laying the floorboards:Measuring the room(s)

• Laying out the timber

• Nailing or screwing the planks, taking into account the distances

• observe the distances to the walls

• Remove wedges and spacers

• If necessary, refinish planks

• Clean up

Once the measuring of the space in question has been done, the necessary materials are purchased. Among the utensils needed are:

• Floorboards
• Tension iron
• Bearing timbers
• Hammer
• tapping block
• spirit level
• Tape measure
• Nails or screws
• Cordless screwdriver
• Drill
• Saw and jigsaw
• Pencil

Laying wooden floor instructions

First of all, it is important to note that the planks should never be laid directly on the subfloor. Rather, for the purpose of stabilization should be laid wedges or bearing timbers.

Tip: if these are insulated by gaps, later you can guarantee a straight laying of the planks.
Usually it makes sense to install a so-called moisture barrier. Especially in the case of apartments on the first floor, such a step is convenient to prevent the penetration of moisture from below.

The plank, which is laid first, should be laid with the groove side facing the wall, that is, across the bearing timbers. In view of the possible formation of joints later on, it is important to maintain a distance of about one centimeter from the walls right from the start. In the course of this, the other planks are also fixed. The last plank in the row may have to be cut to fit exactly.

Proceed in the same way in the second to the last row. The last plank of the room is again cut to size as needed, and inserted into the row with the help of the pull iron. Only then can the finishing strips be applied. If the planks were untreated, it is now necessary to apply a special protective stain. After that, the entire room will impress with an attractive appearance.

Plank flooring costs and prices wood flooring

The choice in terms of wooden floors and floorboards is truly diverse. For every need, for every requirement, for every space - whether indoors or outdoors - for every budget you can find the right wooden floors and planks. In fact, the installation of wooden floors and planks enjoys great popularity not only inside living rooms. But also on terraces, balconies and in conservatories they are always real eye-catchers. For outdoor use, for example, the so-called terrace planks are available, which are an inexpensive alternative to stone or concrete flooring.

Their main advantage is that they do not heat up excessively even in intense, prolonged sunlight. In the shade, in turn, decking boards do not cool down too quickly. Today, most modern decking boards have such a smooth surface that splintering is virtually impossible. Barefoot walking is therefore possible without further ado.

Laying multilayer or solid wood planks

For indoor installation, a distinction is usually made between so-called solid wood planks and multi-layer planks. Both variants are usually equipped with a tongue and groove system, which makes laying the individual boards much easier. Solid wood planks are the more durable variant. They can be used in almost any room and - thanks to modern sealing processes - are now even suitable for laying in the bathroom or kitchen.

Solid wood planks are characterized by their high load-bearing capacity and warm appearance. And the fact that they do not have to be torn out after years of use, but can be refinished, also speaks for itself. True, solid wood planks are usually a little more expensive to buy, like two-layer or multi-layer planks. But according to experts, it is always a very worthwhile purchase. Solid wood planks can be easily used in living rooms across generations, if desired.

Laying two-layer or multi-layer plank flooring

Two-layer or multi-layer planks are floor coverings that are equally made of different types of wood . However, their surface is comparatively thin and has been fixed to a special, very robust carpet pad (usually made of softwood or comparable materials) as part of a usually complex production process. As a rule, they are equipped with a click system, so that the installation of these planks is easy and uncomplicated.

Whichever wood variant you choose - whether cherry, oak, beech, maple and so on: if you take a little time in your search and compare the relevant offers, you can definitely save money.

Planks are either cut to fit exactly and then laid from wall to wall, or they are available in certain fixed lengths, which sometimes makes laying a little easier for inexperienced DIYers.

Laying plank flooring costs

Basically, all wooden floors are characterized by the fact that they are easy to clean, hygienic and extremely durable. Of course, modern products also meet the ecological requirements in every respect. Thus, these environmentally friendly types of planks are manufactured without glue, and even more so free of environmentally harmful dyes and varnishes. The disadvantage is that these floorboards are somewhat more expensive to purchase, but the environment is happy.The cost of floorboards varies in part greatly. Here it is necessary to take into account the type of wood, thickness, length, as well as the surface finish (treated or not).

• Cost of solid wood planks: on average about 50 to 55 euros / sq.m.

• Cost of two-layer or multi-layer planks: about 25 to 35 euros/sq.m.

• Decking boards (with treated surface): about 12 to 20 euros/sqm

Country house planks prices

The so-called country house style is "in". And so also country house floorboards enjoy a constantly increasing popularity. They adapt to a wide variety of living styles, and their appealing appearance always creates an attractive, inviting ambience. Country house floorboards are available in the brushed variant, in sanded form, planed, in a rustic look or even in an antique look. In this context, there are virtually no limits to the creative imagination of manufacturers. By the way, country house floorboards can be found in both private and commercial areas (restaurants, cafes, offices et cetera).

Oiled planks and plank installation

A special role in the production is played by environmentally friendly processing. As a rule, all planks are treated with special natural oils. Moreover, many of these products are treated with a special sealing oil, which provides additional protection against scratches and other damage.

Unlike most paints and varnishes, for example, this oil glaze allows country house floorboards to "breathe" and thus retain their first-class quality in the long term. In essence, especially allergy sufferers benefit when their own four walls are equipped with country house floorboards. This is because the fact that high-quality products do not contain solvents and other chemicals makes it easy to breathe in the premises. So unlike some other floor coverings.

Highlight house style with planks

If you wish to furnish the floor in your own home similar to mansions, mansions or castles, country house floorboards are indeed the right choice. This will highlight the individual, sophisticated style in a very special way.

• In the antique variant, mainly high-quality woods with strong grain, branching, aged surfaces or cracks are selected for production. Thus, an "antique" character is achieved.

• Hand-planed planks are - each for itself - truly unique. The impressive cross and longitudinal graining is particularly impressive. When laid side by side, the result is an individual overall appearance.

• Country house floorboards with a brushed surface give the flooring a very special appearance. The process used for this is quite complex, which ultimately also has an effect on the price. But the decisive factor, in the opinion of many discerning consumers, is the expressive design.

• Even in the classic form, stylish planks always come out very well. For example, the smoothly sanded surfaces are either smoked or left as they are. A special oiling gives the products the final "touch".

• Most plank models today have special tongue-and-groove systems, or they are equipped with a simple click system instead. This makes them easier to install, and the eager DIYer can enjoy an attractive "new" home sooner.

• Even as ready-made parquet planks are available today. They are usually three-layer or multi-layer planks, each of which is very stable in shape. Despite the usually low thickness, they are very robust and are often even suitable for laying over underfloor heating.

As high quality and versatile as country house floorboards are today, they are still partly inexpensive . However, it depends here admittedly on the individual condition: which kind of wood, which form of the coating, two- or three-layer parquet, the thickness as well as the respective dimensions and so on. The average purchase price is about 35 to 38 euros, with virtually no limits on the scale upwards.

Since the interior decoration is never finished, you are also certainly interested in our wallpaper calculator