Wilmac Flooring

Is Parquet Flooring the Right Fit for Your Home?

With its striking patterns and classic feel, parquet flooring has been a favourite in grand homes for centuries and has made a strong comeback in modern interiors.

As a homeowner, you may be wondering whether parquet is the right choice for your home. In this blog we will run through the pros and cons so you can decide whether parquet flooring is a perfect fit for you.

Aesthetic Appeal

If you’re after flooring that turns heads, look no further than parquet. With patterns like chevron, herringbone and basket weave, it instantly brings character and a little old-school charm to a room. It works beautifully in both period homes and modern spaces, giving them a stylish edge. What’s more, there are plenty of wood types and finishes available. This means you can opt for a classic, warm look or something a little sleeker and more contemporary.

Durability and Longevity

Parquet flooring isn’t just about looks, it’s built to last. When properly cared for, it can stay in great shape for decades, making it a long-term investment. Hardwood parquet in particular is tough enough to handle everyday wear and tear. This means it’s a solid option for busy homes. Unlike carpets, which can wear down quickly, or vinyl, which can look tired over time, a well-maintained parquet floor just gets better and better with age!

Easy to Keep Clean

If you’re not a fan of spending ages scrubbing floors, parquet flooring really is for you. A quick sweep or vacuum is usually enough to keep it looking fresh, and an occasional mop with a damp (not soaking wet) cloth will do the trick. Unlike carpets which trap dust and allergens, parquet has a smooth surface. This makes it far easier to keep dust-free and brilliant if you’ve got allergies or just like a tidy home with minimal effort.

Lots of Design Options

One of the best things about parquet is that it comes in loads of different styles. This means you aren’t stuck with just one look. Whether you crave something classic like herringbone or a more eye-catching geometric pattern, there’s a style to suit every home. Plus, with different wood tones and finishes to feast your eyes on, you can go light and airy or dark and dramatic.

More Expensive Choice

The quality of materials and the time it takes to lay the patterns means it can be more expensive than standard wooden planks or laminate. If you’re on a tight budget, it might not be the most cost-effective choice, especially if you need a professional to install it. That said, it’s an investment. If looked after properly, it can last for decades so you won’t have to worry about replacing it any time soon.

Keep Away From Moisture

If there’s one thing parquet doesn’t get along with, it’s water. Like any real wood flooring, it can warp or swell if it’s exposed to too much moisture. This makes it a risky choice for bathrooms, kitchens or anywhere prone to spills. Even in drier areas of the house, you’ll need to be careful with mopping. Too much water can cause damage over time! If you love the look but need something more water-resistant, an LVT  (luxury vinyl tile) version of parquet could be worth considering instead.

Can Be Tricky to Install

Parquet flooring isn’t the kind of thing you can just click together like laminate. The detailed patterns take time and precision to get right, which usually means hiring a professional to do the job properly. This adds to the overall cost and means you can’t just lay it down in an afternoon. If you’re a DIY lover, it’s not impossible to fit yourself. However, it’s definitely more fiddly than standard wooden flooring.

Can Scratch and Fade Over Time

While parquet is durable, it isn’t completely invincible. Heavy furniture, pet claws and even high heels can leave scratches, so it needs a bit of care to keep it looking its best. Sunlight can also be an issue. If your room gets a lot of natural light, some areas of the floor might fade over time, while others stay darker. Using rugs in high-traffic areas and adding blinds or curtains to block out direct sunlight can help, but it’s something to keep in mind.

Parquet flooring is a real showstopper, bringing style to any home. But, as with any long term investment, it needs a bit of research to check it is the right fit for you. If you’re thinking about adding parquet to your home and want expert advice, we’re here to help!

Get in touch with our team today to explore your options and find the perfect parquet flooring in Chester for your space. Whether you opt for parquet or flooring that’s a little cheaper, we’re confident we’ve got what you need.