Parquet floors can add character and elegance to any home, but there are several factors you should take into account before committing. Cost is one of the key considerations – parquet floors can be costly.
Pattern selection will have an effect on cost; more complex chevron or herringbone designs such as herringbone may cost more than simpler brick or diamond patterns.
Patterns
There are an assortment of parquet patterns to choose from, each style representing various eras of history. Popular designs like herringbone or chevron have stood the test of time, offering timeless aesthetics suitable for both traditional and modern settings.
Basket weave parquet flooring patterns may also be highlighted with dark stain. Brickwork-patterned parquet is another variation that mimics the appearance of brick walls; perfect for rustic or contemporary decor settings.
Parquet floors can alter spatial perception by lengthening or widening a room depending on their laying pattern, creating the impression of more space in smaller or narrower areas. Herringbone, diamond and chessboard patterns work particularly well to give this effect; for a more modern feel you may prefer block herringbone with double borders which creates a striking design and fits larger rooms beautifully.
Materials
Parquet floors come in various species and designs of wood, from durable and stylish options to those made to appear more rustic or vintage over time. Depending on its style and construction method, parquet flooring may prove both durable and visually appealing; depending on its design it could even become very durable over time.
Prior to choosing a parquet flooring pattern for your room, take into account its size, amount of natural light available to it and your personal preferences. Darker floors tend to work better in larger, brighter spaces while lighter hues may suit smaller, darker spaces better. Also important is coordinating furniture colors with flooring colours so everything works together seamlessly.
Laying down a herringbone or chevron parquet floor may seem complex at first glance, but with proper planning it shouldn’t be too challenging. Even so, even small mistakes in layout could potentially wreak havoc with its final appearance; so professional installation should always be sought. Furthermore, wood can dehydrate easily so it is crucial that ambient humidity remain stable for best results.
Installation
Some homeowners opt to install parquet flooring themselves rather than hiring professional installers, taking great care in following manufacturer’s instructions for installation. When doing so, be sure to properly prepare the subfloor in advance – its foundational support is key to successful tile placement!
Surfaces should be clean and free of dirt, debris and grease; and dry; opening windows or using a dehumidifier may help. In case of flooding damage to a floor surface, immediate drying must take place as well as treatment against fungus or mold growth.
Maintenance of parquet wood floors is relatively straightforward. Sweeping and vacuuming regularly will remove dust and debris, keeping the wood looking its best. Oiled parquet should be re-oiled on an ongoing basis to avoid yellowing; sealed lacquers may simply need wiping with a damp cloth after use. Furniture pads may also help protect heavy pieces against scratches; various sizes are available to suit various kinds of furniture.
Maintenance
Although parquet floors tend to last a long time, proper care must be taken in order to preserve their beauty. Frequent sweeps and vacuuming should take place on a weekly or bi-weekly basis using soft bristle brooms that do not scratch or dull flooring surfaces; mopping with non-toxic liquid cleaner is also needed to eliminate dirt from these floors.
Doormats at all entrances should help prevent dirt from being tracked into your home, as well as carpet runners or rugs in high traffic areas. Regular nail trimming for pets should help avoid scratching up floors.
Scratches may occur, but small scratches on oil-treated parquet can usually be repaired with light re-oiling. Any loose blocks should be reglued using an appropriate adhesive.
