The modern world has given us some terrific flooring options, such as vinyl planks and engineered timber flooring. However, one of the most popular on the market right now is hybrid flooring. Here’s everything you need to know about using hybrid flooring for your renovation or new home.
What is hybrid flooring?
Hybrid flooring generally comes in two distinct types, being wood plastic composite (WPC) or stone plastic composite (SPC). WPC is made by mixing plastic composite with recycled wood, while SPC mixes plastic composite with compressed limestone. Both of them have basically the same four-layer structure, which is:
- Backing barrier: The base layer is usually made from cork or rubber. It adds to the stability of the floor, but also helps with thermal and acoustic insulation.
- Inner core: The main part of the flooring, made from WPC or SPC depending on your choice. The core is tough and waterproof to prevent damage.
- Decorative layer: This is the design of the flooring, which could be anything from woodgrains to marble.
- Protective layer: The top layer is a protective coating that prevents dents, fading, and stains and also makes it easier to clean.
One of the best things about hybrid flooring is that it’s designed to be a type of floating floorboard. A simple tongue and groove system makes it easy to install with no glue or nails required.
The benefits of hybrid flooring
There are so many reasons people are falling in love with hybrid flooring. It’s easy to install and looks amazing, but that’s only part of the appeal. Here are some of the benefits of hybrid flooring:
Easy to clean: No deep cleaning is required, just a vacuum, broom or mop and you can keep the floor clean at all times.
Great visual appeal: Several designs to choose from, including timber, marble stone and plenty more.
Simple to install: The click and fit installation method means anyone can lay hybrid floors. No sanding or staining is required.
Waterproof: Spills and pet accidents are no problem at all with waterproof hybrid flooring. This means it’s also practical for bathrooms and kitchens.
Cost-effective: Hybrid flooring is far cheaper than traditional hardwood floors, and it also requires less maintenance.
The benefits of hybrid flooring
There are so many reasons people are falling in love with hybrid flooring. It’s easy to install and looks amazing, but that’s only part of the appeal. Here are some of the benefits of hybrid flooring:
Easy to clean: No deep cleaning is required, just a vacuum, broom or mop and you can keep the floor clean at all times.
Great visual appeal: Several designs to choose from, including timber, marble stone and plenty more.
Simple to install: The click and fit installation method means anyone can lay hybrid floors. No sanding or staining is required.
Waterproof: Spills and pet accidents are no problem at all with waterproof hybrid flooring. This means it’s also practical for bathrooms and kitchens.
Cost-effective: Hybrid flooring is far cheaper than traditional hardwood floors, and it also requires less maintenance.
The best way to clean hybrid flooring
Many people ask how to clean hybrid floors, and it’s actually quite simple. Unlike carpet which can be a nightmare to clean, hybrid flooring is relatively easy. Basically, all you need is a vacuum, broom or mop depending on how dirty the floors are. Spills can be wiped up with a cloth easily, but for a deeper clean you’ll need to keep the following in mind.
- Don’t use harsh chemicals like bleach and other abrasive cleaners
- Don’t use steam mops or steam cleaners
- Don’t scrub with scourers, and don’t use waxes or polish
The best way to ensure your hybrid flooring stays in top condition is to use mats where appropriate and even felt pads under tables and chairs to avoid damaging the protective layer. While hybrid floors are more hard-wearing than timber, you should still take care to protect them from damage.
The best way to clean hybrid flooring
Many people ask how to clean hybrid floors, and it’s actually quite simple. Unlike carpet which can be a nightmare to clean, hybrid flooring is relatively easy. Basically, all you need is a vacuum, broom or mop depending on how dirty the floors are. Spills can be wiped up with a cloth easily, but for a deeper clean you’ll need to keep the following in mind.
- Don’t use harsh chemicals like bleach and other abrasive cleaners
- Don’t use steam mops or steam cleaners
- Don’t scrub with scourers, and don’t use waxes or polish
The best way to ensure your hybrid flooring stays in top condition is to use mats where appropriate and even felt pads under tables and chairs to avoid damaging the protective layer. While hybrid floors are more hard-wearing than timber, you should still take care to protect them from damage.
Do you need an underlay with hybrid flooring?
Thanks to the rubber or cork bottom layer on hybrid flooring, you don’t really need to use underlay. However, if you want even more thermal and acoustic insulation, you certainly can use it if you want. Any added layers will help to cushion the floor and make it feel better underfoot, as well as the extra insulation benefits.
It’s definitely not essential, but underlay is always a good idea. It’s a relatively inexpensive product and doesn’t complicate the installation process too much.
Can you install hybrid flooring yourself?
You can absolutely install hybrid floors yourself! Thanks to the easy tongue and groove style, the pieces just click together like floating floorboards. If you install the flooring yourself, just make sure the surface is flat and free of nails, glue and other pieces of the previous flooring that could make it uneven. Even if you use an underlay, the surface beneath that should be relatively flat and free of obstacles.
When it comes to cutting the pieces to fit around walls and other architectural features, simply use a ruler to ensure the cut will be straight. You can then simply use a knife to cut through the top layer, flip it over and snap it. Alternatively, circular saws can be used, but be careful not to damage the flooring.
If you’d like to know more about hybrid flooring or even check out some examples, contact the team at Find A Floor today. Being such a great DIY project, you can save plenty by ordering online, and we’ve got an incredible range to choose from.
