WORDS OF WISDOM
Greg Elliot, head of technical at Havwoods, offers expert advice on fitting wood flooring in the kitchen
Is it a good idea to choose wood flooring for the kitchen?
As a rule, wood flooring is not well suited to wet or humid environments, but if you are set on introducing wood into the kitchen then an engineered board is the best option. Its multi-layered construction means it is less prone to warping in areas where moisture is present and temperatures fluctuate, such as the kitchen. Engineered flooring is less likely to swell, shrink, or gap. What’s more, its stability also means that most products are suitable for installing over underfloor heating, which is not usually the case with solid wood.
What’s the best way to protect it?
Wood is naturally absorbent, and prolonged contact with liquids will result in warping or staining – making a water-resistant finish essential. A polyurethane-lacquer coating will fill pores in the surface, protecting the flooring from dirt and moisture ingress. Alternatively, a Uv-cured hardwax oil combines the durability of a lacquer with the subtlety of an oil coating.
How can I keep it looking its best?
Particles of dirt and grit traipsed onto a wooden floor will erode protective treatments and make the surface dull. Avoid wearing outdoor shoes on the floor and place a large mat that absorbs both grit and moisture next to external doorways. Matting should allow two steps across. You also need to protect the floor against marks made by moveable furniture, such as tables and chairs. A simple solution is to apply felt feet to the underside of the furniture legs. Regularly check and clean the felt feet to avoid embedded grit from scratching the wood surface. Regularly cleaning and polishing the floor with a specialist wood cleaner will also ensure that the floor retains its shine.