Most Frequently Asked Questions About Flooring

At Best4Flooring's, we strive to be more than just a supplier of high-quality flooring products; we're also your go-to source for practical, no-nonsense information to help you make the best purchasing decisions.

We understand that choosing the perfect flooring for your space can be a confusing and daunting task, which is why we've compiled a list of the most frequently asked questions to ensure our customers are satisfied with their choices. 

In this blog, we'll address common queries like 'can you paint floor tiles?', 'how to clean floor tiles', 'how much laminate flooring do I need?', and 'what is the best flooring for allergy sufferers?'. Read on to explore these topics and more, providing you with essential tips and advice for all your flooring needs.

Can you paint floor tiles?

You can paint floor tiles if you want to, but the process isn’t always as straightforward as it is when painting walls. The tiles need to be prepared and you’ll need to ensure you are using the right materials for long-lasting results. 

Start by thoroughly cleaning and repairing any damaged tiles. Also check the grouting to see if it needs to be redone. If it does, ensure you do this before painting the tiles for best results. When you are ready to paint them, begin by using a high-quality adhesion primer to ensure the paint will stick correctly. 

After the primer dries, apply a suitable water-resistant paint in whatever finish you desire. It will likely take a few coats to achieve best results. Finish with a clear, protective topcoat to seal the paint and add durability. 

How to clean floor tiles?

Cleaning floor tiles couldn’t be easier thanks to their water-resistant and smooth surface. A little daily maintenance will go a long way towards keeping them looking like new. 

To clean floor tiles, start by sweeping or vacuuming them to remove any loose dirt, dust, and debris. Mix a solution of warm water and mild soap or use a specialist floor cleaner. Using a soft cloth or mop, clean the tiles with your chosen solution, avoiding abrasive tools that could scratch the surface. 

For stubborn stains, use a soft-bristled brush and a gentle scrubbing motion. Rinse the floor with clean water to remove any soap residue and dry with a clean towel or microfiber cloth to prevent water spots or streaks.

How much laminate flooring do I need?

To determine how much laminate flooring you need, measure the length and width of your room in metres with a tape measure. Multiply the numbers to calculate the total area in square metres. For example, if your room measures 8 metres long by 10 metres wide, you would need 80 square metres. However, we also recommend adding 5% to account for any waste (such as when you cut the flooring to size). 

Once you know how much flooring you will need, divide it by the coverage per box of laminate flooring to determine how many boxes you will need. Always round up to the nearest whole box to ensure you have enough material to complete your project.

To make it easy for you to ensure you are buying the right amount of flooring, we have a useful calculator tool embedded into each product page. Input the total square metres you need, and it will update the number of packs you should add to your basket. 

To make it easy for you to ensure you are buying the right amount of flooring, we have a useful calculator tool embedded into each product page.

What is the best flooring for allergy sufferers?

The best flooring for allergy sufferers doesn't harbour allergens like dust mites, mould, and pet dander. Hard flooring options such as hardwood, laminate, vinyl, and tile are ideal choices. They can be easily cleaned and don't trap allergens like carpets do. This is definitely something to consider when asking Should I Use Hardwood or Carpet?

You should also look for low-VOC (Volatile Organic Compound) flooring materials to minimise indoor air pollution and potential irritants. Keep in mind that even hard flooring surfaces can trigger allergies if they aren’t regularly cleaned. However, they are still much more allergy friendly than carpet. 

What is the best floor for underfloor heating?

The best floor for underfloor heating is one that efficiently conducts heat and provides even temperature distribution. Tile and stone flooring are top choices due to their high thermal conductivity and ability to retain heat. Engineered wood and luxury vinyl tile (LVT) are also suitable options, as they can withstand temperature fluctuations and have good heat transfer properties. 

Avoid thick carpets or materials with poor heat conductivity, as they can insulate the heat and reduce the efficiency of your underfloor heating system. The main type of flooring to avoid if using underfloor heating is solid wood. Hardwood floors will warp and contract when exposed to fluctuating temperatures. 

Do laminate floors need to acclimate?

Laminate floors do need to acclimate before installation. This helps to prevent potential expansion, contraction, or warping caused by fluctuations in temperature and humidity. 

Store the unopened boxes of laminate in the room where they will be installed for at least 48-72 hours. Ensure the room's temperature and humidity are consistent with the levels recommended by the manufacturer. 

Proper acclimation helps the laminate flooring adapt to the environment, reducing the risk of issues like buckling or gaps after installation.

What is the best flooring for a living room with pets?

The best flooring for a living room with pets should be durable, scratch-resistant, and easy to clean. Luxury vinyl tile, laminate, and porcelain or ceramic tiles are excellent options due to their resistance to scratches, stains, and moisture. 

LVT and laminate offer the beautiful appearance of hardwood without the susceptibility to damage from pet nails or accidents. Ideally, you should choose a flooring option with a textured surface to provide better traction for your pets to walk on too.

Does vinyl flooring fade in sunlight?

Vinyl flooring can fade in sunlight, particularly if exposed to direct sunlight for extended periods. Over time, UV rays can cause discoloration and deterioration of the material. 

To minimise the risk of fading, choose a high-quality vinyl product with built-in UV protection, or a wear layer that resists fading. You can also use window coverings like blinds or curtains to block direct sunlight and protect your floors from excessive exposure. Similarly, using a rug to cover the floor in areas exposed to direct sunlight can also reduce the risk.

What is the most affordable flooring for my home?

The most affordable flooring options for your home include laminate, sheet vinyl, and luxury vinyl tile. Out of the three, sheet vinyl is the least expensive option. While it was once thought of as “tacky”, these days sheet vinyl flooring boasts a stylish, high-quality design. It is water resistant and highly durable, providing you with excellent value for money. We have some useful guides covering everything you need to know about sheet vinyl, such as Can I Lay Sheet Vinyl Over Floorboards? And Can We Lay Cushion Vinyl Over Quarry Tiles?

Laminate flooring is another budget-friendly option. It offers the same stunning appearance of hardwood at a fraction of the cost and is also much easier to install. LVT meanwhile, combines the durability of vinyl with the look of more expensive materials like wood or stone. This makes it an attractive and affordable option for various rooms in the home.

Explore our complete range of high-quality, yet affordable flooring. You can also Take a look at other helpful guides available in our advice centre.