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Why Wood Effect Flooring Over Natural Wood Flooring?

September 27, 2018

Tile nerds to the core, we make it our daily mission to stay atop tile trends. As of late, one of the most frequently mentioned trends is the growth in demand for wood effect flooring versus natural wood flooring.

It is no secret that wood flooring has always been a sought-after addition for interior designers everywhere. However, economic shifts are leveling the landscape and rebuilding the popularity of wood flooring, without the actual wood.

But, why?

It will take years of research and data collection to draw out a clear answer to that one. But, being the surface obsessed, design professionals we are, we have a lot to offer when it comes to this growing trend.

Let’s get to it!

The emergence of wood effect flooring

When consumers are working with designers to select products for a space, there is usually a checklist of questions to be answered before the process begins:

  • Where will the product be used?
  • How should the product function?
  • What is the personal style of the consumer?
  • What is the budget?

It is common for the adjectives “comfortable and warm” to be part of the overall gameplan for a space, which inevitably leads designers to browse some kind of wood option. It’s traditional, versatile, and timeless. The one thing missing from that lineup of pluses is “functional.” Natural wood flooring is porous and susceptible to damage from moisture or a high flow of traffic.

With the advances in printing technology, wood effect flooring could be placed next to natural wood flooring and most people would not be able to tell the difference.

It only makes sense that wood effect flooring, without the worry of damage and lack of longevity, would take the limelight.

How wood effect flooring is different

At the end of the day, wood effect flooring is not real wood. Those who love the traditional style of wood might view this as a bad thing. We, however, think it’s a great thing!

Unlike natural wood flooring, wood effect products are made using sand, feldspar, and clay. This combination is the sturdy material behind some of the world’s most durable flooring designs.

Other than the longevity of these kinds of products, there isn’t much of a difference because what’s left is visual. And, visually, technology has made it easier than ever to replicate real, natural elements (like wood) without anyone knowing the difference.

The main benefit of wood effect flooring

In case you missed it, the main benefit of wood effect flooring is its superb durability and overall functionality. Unlike real hardwood flooring, products made to imitate the look of wood are far more resistant to water damage, scratches, flexion, and staining.

Another benefit to note is the price tag. Wood effect products are usually cheaper than real hardwood options.

Lastly, but certainly not the least impactful of the benefits, the style can be customized to fit the designer’s needs. Designers can’t alter nature, but they can alter wood-like products.