Choosing the best flooring for your conservatory

If you are wondering which flooring to install in a new or existing conservatory, you are probably weighing up the advantages and disadvantages of the various options. While the best choice will depend on a number of factors, such as the size and aspect of your conservatory, your budget, the climate where you live and how you use your conservatory, there are a few things you should know about the available flooring types.

Hardwood

Hardwood is one of the more expensive options and it is vital that you choose a product that can cope with the fluctuating temperatures of a conservatory. The main advantage of wood is that it is extremely attractive and can add value to your home when the time comes to sell; however, engineered wood tends to be a more practical choice.

Laminate

Laminate flooring is a popular option for conservatories, as it is relatively affordable yet creates a realistic wood-like finish. As it is available in so many finishes, it should be easy to find a shade and design that complements your conservatory. It is also easy to maintain, durable, and can be finished with a rug if you want to add more interest and warmth.

Stone or ceramic

While this looks very attractive, it will be cold in cooler weather and might not be the best option if you use your conservatory all year round. Adding a large, soft rug might be necessary to soften the chill from stone or ceramic in colder weather. It is great in warmer climates, however, or if you tend to only use your conservatory during the summer.

Vinyl

Affordable and available in a seemingly limitless variety of styles, colours and finishes, this is a low-maintenance option. While modern vinyl flooring is of high quality and stands up to heavy wear and tear, you should be aware that constant exposure to strong sunlight – such as in a south-facing conservatory – might fade some vinyl’s over time. On the plus side, it is hygienic, warmer than tiles, and softer underfoot than some options.

Carpet

Carpet is not a particularly popular choice for conservatories these days, but it is a great option if you want to use your conservatory in cooler weather. It provides a more luxurious finish than hard floor coverings; however, it is not suitable for conservatories with a lot of foot traffic – both human and animal. Carpet flooring in a conservatory might require more cleaning than carpets in other rooms of the house, so consider the upkeep before opting for this type of flooring.