There is now such a huge range of different types of wood flooring that it can be hard to know the difference between the variations on offer — or which one is best for you. 

Wood flooring is a hugely popular choice — and it is easy to understand why. Wood offers a charm and character to homes that can be hard to achieve with some other types of flooring. Even contemporary types of wood flooring can add a sense of warmth — something sometimes lacking in modern properties. 

As the name suggests, solid wood flooring is made from one solid piece of wood. It comes in many different forms, but is often shaped to have a tongue-and-groove edge so that boards fit together neatly. It is, however, also possible to buy solid wood floors without a tongue-and-groove edge. These are nailed down into existing joists and are often preferred by those after a more rustic, authentic look as the final finish is less perfect.

Solid wood flooring is available in various thicknesses from 15mm to 20mm, with the thicker boards being the most preferable. They are also available as finished or unfinished, stained, waxed or with a lacquer finish.