Timber flooring is an enduringly popular choice for Australian homeowners. Timber brings a warm and natural beauty to a home, and it's versatile enough to look fantastic in any style of home. If you'd like to install timber flooring but you're afraid the cost of removing your existing flooring will make the project unaffordable, then a floating timber floor is a great option. Here are reasons why it might be a smart choice for your home.

1. It's fast to install

Because floating timber flooring is installed on top of your existing flooring, it's fast to install. It doesn't require the extensive support of a stand-alone timber floor because the support structures are already in place. The flooring is laid on top of a low-set, timber frame that is fast and easy to assemble.

2. It involves low labour costs

Traditional timber floors require a lot of time spent on building a structurally sound framework for the floor. If you're removing an existing floor first, then this will also require many hours of labour performed by your flooring contractor before the flooring construction can even begin.

Alongside the cost of materials, labour is the most costly part of any home renovation project. A floating timber floor can be fully installed in a matter of days, instead of potentially weeks for a traditional timber floor, which means huge savings for you.

3. It provides excellent insulation

Having a well-insulated home is a high priority for most Australian homeowners. It will not only make your home a more comfortable environment, but it will also save you a considerable amount of money on heating and cooling costs.

Floating floors provide excellent insulation because they combine the insulation from your existing floor with a small pocket of air between the two floors. This air pocket acts as an effective thermal barrier, preventing heat loss and heat gain via your home's floors.

4. It can be installed on any surface

One of the most appealing aspects of a floating floor is that it works perfectly with any type of existing floor surface. Carpets, tiles, concrete and vinyl-covered floors can all be quickly and effectively hidden beneath an attractive new timber floor.

There is no elaborate preparation work needed to prepare an existing floor for a new floating floor installation. It's wise to ensure that it's clean, dry and free from mould or insect infestation prior to installation. For carpets, this may require a professional chemical or steam clean.