Engineered flooring has always been a popular choice for homeowners who want the beauty of wood without the hassles of traditional hardwood. But in 2024, the trends in engineered flooring are taking things up a notch. Whether you're sprucing up your home or diving into a full-scale renovation, these trends are sure to inspire. And the best part? Many of them are perfect for DIYers, looking to get the job done with your own hands and save a bit of money along the way.
Let’s dive into the top 10 engineered flooring trends you need to know this year.
1. Wide Plank Designs: Go Big or Go Home
What’s the Deal with Wide Plank Flooring?
Wide plank flooring is all the rage in 2024, and for good reason. Unlike traditional narrow boards, wide planks can make a room feel larger and more open. They create a seamless, modern look that’s both sophisticated and cozy.
Why It’s Trending
As more homes embrace open-plan living, wide plank flooring complements these expansive spaces beautifully. The wider the plank, the fewer seams you have, which means less visual clutter and a more cohesive look. It’s a simple way to make a big impact.
DIY Installation Tips
Installing wide plank flooring is a bit different from working with narrower boards. The key is to properly prepare your subfloor—make sure it’s level, clean, and dry. You’ll also want to acclimate the planks to your home’s humidity for a few days before installation to avoid warping. A few precision tools and a steady hand will help ensure those wider boards lock together perfectly.
2. Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Options: Going Green Never Looked So Good
Why Choose Sustainable Flooring?
If you’re eco-conscious, you’re not alone. In 2024, sustainability is a major trend, with homeowners opting for eco-friendly materials like bamboo and responsibly sourced engineered wood. These options are perfect for those who want their home to look great and feel good about their choices.
Why It’s Trending
Consumers are more aware than ever of their environmental impact, and sustainable flooring is an easy way to make a positive change. Bamboo, for instance, is a renewable resource that grows quickly, making it an excellent alternative to traditional hardwoods. Engineered flooring, often made with less wood than solid hardwood, also leaves a smaller carbon footprint.
DIY Considerations
When shopping for sustainable flooring, look for certifications like FSC (Forest Stewardship Council) or GreenGuard. These labels ensure you’re buying products that meet rigorous environmental standards. Installation-wise, bamboo and other eco-friendly materials are generally DIY-friendly, but as always, following the manufacturer’s guidelines is crucial for a successful project.
3. Natural and Neutral Colours: Timeless Elegance
What’s So Special About Natural Tones?
Natural and neutral colours are making a strong comeback this year. Think warm oak, soft beiges, and light greys that add warmth without overpowering the space.
Why It’s Trending
These colours are timeless and versatile, making them a safe bet if you’re planning to sell your home in the future or just want a look that won’t go out of style. They also create a serene, calming atmosphere that pairs well with almost any décor, from rustic to modern.
DIY Colour Matching
When choosing a floor colour, consider the existing tones in your home—walls, furniture, and even the amount of natural light you get. If you’re uncertain, neutral colours are a great starting point as they blend seamlessly with most designs. Remember, lighter shades can make a room feel more spacious, while darker tones add coziness and drama.
4. Textured Finishes: Feel the Difference
What is a Textured Finish?
Textured finishes like hand-scraped, wire-brushed, or distressed flooring are becoming increasingly popular. These finishes add character and depth to your floors, making them stand out in any room.
Why It’s Trending
Textured finishes not only look unique but also offer practical benefits. They can help hide minor scratches and dents, making them a great choice for high-traffic areas or homes with kids and pets.
Installation Tips
While textured flooring is stunning, it does require careful handling during installation. Pay extra attention to alignment and use spacers to maintain consistent gaps between planks. This will ensure that your floor looks even and professional. Also, keep in mind that the texture can add a bit of a challenge when cutting planks, so having sharp tools on hand is essential.
5. Waterproof and Water-Resistant Flooring: Perfect for Any Room
Why Go Waterproof?
Waterproof engineered flooring, especially SPC Hybrid Flooring, is a game-changer. It’s designed to withstand moisture, making it ideal for kitchens, bathrooms, and even basements where traditional wood flooring would be a no-go.
Why It’s Trending
With the increasing demand for open-concept living, more homeowners are looking for flooring that can flow seamlessly from room to room, including wet areas. Waterproof flooring allows you to achieve a uniform look throughout your home without worrying about water damage.
DIY Installation Guide
Installing waterproof flooring is straightforward, but preparation is key. Ensure your subfloor is perfectly level and clean. For DIYers, using a floating installation method with click-lock planks is usually the easiest option. It’s quick, requires no glue or nails, and can be done with basic tools.
6. Mixed Media Flooring: Get Creative
What is Mixed Media Flooring?
Mixed media flooring combines different materials, like wood and tile, in a single room. This trend is perfect for those who want a unique, custom look.
Why It’s Trending
Homeowners are increasingly looking for ways to personalise their spaces, and mixed media flooring offers endless possibilities. It’s particularly effective in areas like entryways or kitchens, where you might want a durable tile in one section and warm wood in another.
DIY Project Ideas
For a DIY project, consider starting with a small area, like an entryway, to experiment with mixed media. Use tile for a border or inlay within a wood floor to create a striking focal point. Precision is key, so measure twice and cut once. A laser level can be incredibly helpful in keeping everything aligned.
7. Herringbone and Chevron Patterns: A Touch of Elegance
What’s So Special About These Patterns?
Herringbone and chevron patterns are classic designs that are making a big comeback in 2024. These patterns add a sense of luxury and sophistication to any room.
Why It’s Trending
These patterns are timeless, adding both texture and movement to your floors. They’re perfect for making a statement in areas like foyers or dining rooms.
Installation Complexity
Installing herringbone or chevron patterns is more complex than laying standard planks, but it’s definitely achievable with some patience and precision. Start by planning your layout carefully and marking guidelines on your subfloor. Use spacers to maintain consistent gaps, and consider renting a flooring saw to make precise cuts.
8. High-Gloss Finishes: Shine Bright
What is a High-Gloss Finish?
High-gloss engineered flooring is all about sleek, polished surfaces that reflect light beautifully, giving your space a clean, modern feel.
Why It’s Trending
In 2024, high-gloss finishes are making a comeback as homeowners embrace minimalist, contemporary designs. The reflective quality of these floors can make smaller spaces feel larger and more open.
Maintenance Tips
While high-gloss floors look stunning, they do require regular maintenance to keep them looking their best. Dust and dirt can show up more easily on these surfaces, so frequent sweeping and occasional polishing are necessary. Using furniture pads can help prevent scratches, and be sure to clean up spills quickly to avoid water spots.
9. Engineered Flooring for Walls: Think Outside the Floor
Why Put Flooring on the Walls?
Engineered flooring isn’t just for your floors anymore. Using it on walls is a growing trend that adds warmth, texture, and a unique design element to any room.
Why It’s Trending
This trend is perfect for creating feature walls in living rooms, bedrooms, or even bathrooms. It’s a great way to tie the room together by extending the same material from the floor to the walls, creating a cohesive look.
DIY Wall Installation
Installing flooring on walls is similar to flooring but with gravity working against you. Use a strong adhesive suitable for wood and start from the bottom, working your way up. Make sure to secure each plank until the adhesive sets. If you’re going for a vertical pattern, stagger the seams to avoid a too-uniform look.
10. Custom Staining and Finishing: Make It Your Own
What’s Custom Staining?
Custom staining allows you to create a unique look by applying a stain to your flooring that’s tailored to your home’s design. It’s perfect for DIYers who want a truly personalized finish.
Why It’s Trending
Homeowners are looking for ways to express their personal style, and custom staining offers endless possibilities. Whether you want a deep, rich mahogany or a light, airy whitewash, you can achieve the exact shade you want.
DIY Customisation Tips
Custom staining is a fantastic DIY project, but it does require some practice. Start by testing your stain on a sample plank to see how it reacts with the wood. Use even strokes and wipe away excess stain to avoid blotches. Once you’ve achieved your desired colour, seal the floor with a high-quality finish to protect your work.
The Future of Flooring is Here
2024 is an exciting year for flooring trends, with something for every style and taste. Whether you’re drawn to the timeless elegance of herringbone patterns or the modern sleekness of high-gloss finishes, there’s a trend that will fit your home perfectly. And as a DIYer, these trends aren’t just for the pros—you can tackle these projects with confidence.
Remember, the key to a successful flooring project is preparation and patience. With the right materials, tools, and guidance, you can transform your home with the latest trends in engineered flooring. So why wait? View our collection of flooring online now.