Choosing new flooring is a big decision. It affects how your home looks, feels, and functions every single day.
In 2026, flooring trends have shifted. Cool greys are out. Warmth, texture, and authenticity are in. Homeowners want floors that are beautiful but also built for real life — easy to maintain, durable, and genuinely comfortable.
Whether you are renovating a single room or planning a whole-home refresh, from flooring supply to professional flooring installation, this guide covers everything you need to know about the top flooring trends in 2026 — including what looks great, what materials work best, what things cost, and which mistakes to avoid.
The Biggest Flooring Trends of 2026 at a Glance
Here is a quick snapshot of what is trending in flooring right now:
- Warm tones are back. Honey oak, caramel, and chestnut are replacing cool grey.
- Wide planks dominate. Bigger boards make rooms feel more open and luxurious.
- Patterns are having a moment. Herringbone, chevron, and checkerboard are everywhere.
- Matte is the new gloss. Low-sheen finishes look more natural and hide daily wear better.
- LVP keeps improving. Luxury vinyl now looks and feels closer to real wood than ever before.
- Large tiles for clean, modern spaces. Fewer grout lines, sleeker look.
- Sustainability matters. Cork, bamboo, reclaimed wood, and low-VOC carpets are mainstream.
- Carpet is making a comeback. Warmer, bolder, and more design-forward than before.
- Smart floors are emerging. Underfloor heating and sensor-compatible flooring are growing fast.
Trend 1: Warm Wood Tones and Honey Oak
Why This Trend Is Taking Over in 2026
For several years, grey-washed floors were everywhere. Light, cool, and minimal. Now the pendulum has swung the other way.
In 2026, warm wood tones are the dominant flooring colour story. Think honey oak, caramel maple, golden walnut, and chestnut brown. These tones feel inviting, organic, and timeless.
They also pair well with almost everything — brass hardware, terracotta accents, deep green textiles, and white cabinetry. That versatility is a big reason homeowners love them.
What Shades Are Most Popular?
- Honey and golden oak — light, airy, Scandinavian-inspired
- Mid-tone caramel and amber — warm without being too dark
- Rich walnut and chestnut — dramatic, cosy, works beautifully in living rooms and studies
- Soft greige (grey + beige) — a warm neutral that bridges cool and warm palettes
Which Materials Come in These Tones?
You can get warm wood tones in:
- Solid hardwood — the real thing, beautiful but sensitive to moisture
- Engineered hardwood — real wood veneer, more stable, suitable for underfloor heating
- Luxury vinyl plank (LVP) — waterproof, durable, excellent for families
- Laminate — more affordable, improved quality in 2026
Best Rooms for Warm Wood Tones
Living rooms, bedrooms, dining rooms, hallways, home offices. Basically, anywhere you want warmth and comfort.
Trend 2: Wide Plank Flooring
The Case for Going Big
Wide-plank flooring has been gaining momentum for years. In 2026, it is firmly at the top of every designer’s list.
Traditional floorboards are around 2 to 3 inches wide. Wide planks start at 5 inches and often go to 7, 9, or even 12 inches.
Why does width matter? A wider board means fewer seams across the floor. Fewer seams make a room feel bigger, cleaner, and more cohesive. It is one of the simplest ways to make a space feel more luxurious.
Wide planks also show off the natural grain of the wood. With a narrow plank, grain patterns get interrupted. With a wide board, you see the full beauty of the wood or wood-look surface.
Wide Plank Options by Material
| Material | Typical Width | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Solid hardwood | 5″–8″ | Classic look, best for dry rooms |
| Engineered hardwood | 5″–10″ | More stable, works with underfloor heating |
| LVP | 6″–12″ | Waterproof, ideal for busy households |
| Laminate | 5″–8″ | Affordable, good visual impact |
Design Tip
In smaller rooms, wide planks laid lengthwise along the longest wall make the space feel longer and more spacious. In open-plan spaces, they create a sense of flow across the whole floor.
Trend 3: Herringbone and Patterned Layouts
Why Patterns Are Back
Patterned flooring was once seen as old-fashioned. Not anymore. In 2026, herringbone, chevron, checkerboard, and parquet flooring are among the most requested styles by homeowners and interior designers alike.
The reason is simple. Pattern adds personality. It turns a floor from a backdrop into a design feature.
Herringbone vs. Chevron: What’s the Difference?
A common question. Here is the simple version:
- Herringbone — planks are cut at a 90-degree angle and laid in a zigzag pattern. The ends of the planks meet at a right angle—classic, timeless look.
- Chevron — planks are cut at a 45-degree angle so the pattern forms a clean V-shape. More geometric, sharper, very on-trend.
Both look stunning. Herringbone flooring tends to feel more traditional and warm. Chevron feels more modern and graphic.
Other Patterns Trending in 2026
- Checkerboard tile — black and white, or tonal contrasts. Perfect for entryways, kitchens, and bathrooms.
- Parquet panels — geometric wood arrangements, making a big comeback in living rooms.
- Terrazzo-inspired patterns — speckled stone-look tiles with coloured chips. Popular in bathrooms and utility rooms.
- Custom tile mosaics — used as focal points in bathrooms and kitchen splashbacks.
What Materials Work for Patterned Floors?
- Hardwood and engineered wood — for herringbone and parquet. Premium look.
- Luxury vinyl — herringbone LVP is now widely available. More affordable and waterproof.
- Porcelain tile — for checkerboard and geometric bathroom floors.
- Carpet tiles — modular, can be arranged in patterns. Very popular in home offices.
Design Tip for Patterned Flooring
Keep the rest of the room simple. Patterned floors make a statement on their own. Pair them with plain walls, simple furniture, and neutral soft furnishings for the best effect.
Trend 4: Matte Finishes Over Gloss
The Shift Away from Shiny
High-gloss floors were the standard for years. They catch the light, look polished, and photograph well in showrooms. But in real homes? They show every scratch, every footprint, and every smear.
In 2026, matte and satin finishes are the overwhelming choice. And it is not just a practical decision — matte looks genuinely better.
Why Matte Finishes Win
- They hide daily wear — scratches, scuffs, and dust are far less visible
- They feel more natural — wood looks like wood, not like laminate under a thick lacquer
- They photograph beautifully — no glare, no hot spots
- They suit more interiors — matte works with traditional, modern, rustic, and Scandi styles
- They develop character — especially on oiled or hardwax-oil-finished floors, which build a gentle patina over time
Finish Options Explained
| Finish | Sheen Level | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| High gloss | Very shiny | Showrooms (not homes) |
| Satin | Slight sheen | Bedrooms, dining rooms |
| Matte | Flat, no shine | Living areas, kitchens |
| Oiled | Near-flat, natural | Rustic and natural interiors |
| Hardwax-oil | Natural, develops patina | High-end hardwood floors |
Design Tip
Pair matte floors with textural elements — linen curtains, rattan furniture, natural fibre rugs. This creates a layered, tactile interior that feels genuinely warm and considered.
Trend 5: Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP) — Smarter Than Ever
Why LVP Is the Most Practical Flooring Choice in 2026
Luxury vinyl flooring has been growing for years. In 2026, it had matured into a genuinely impressive product category.
Today’s LVP is not the thin, flimsy vinyl of the past. Modern LVP features:
- Thicker wear layers — better scratch and dent resistance
- Embossed-in-register (EIR) printing — the texture of the surface aligns with the visual grain, making it feel and look remarkably like real wood
- 100% waterproof cores — not just water-resistant, actually waterproof
- Rigid core construction — better stability underfoot, less hollow feel
- Longer planks — up to 72 inches, creating a more realistic hardwood look
- Acoustic underlayment — quieter underfoot, warmer in feel
LVP vs. Hardwood: Quick Comparison
| Feature | LVP | Hardwood |
|---|---|---|
| Water resistance | Fully waterproof | Sensitive to moisture |
| Durability | Very high | High (scratches over time) |
| Installation | DIY-friendly click-lock | Often professional needed |
| Cost | Lower | Higher |
| Warmth underfoot | Good | Excellent |
| Look | Very realistic in 2026 | Authentic |
| Lifespan | 15–25 years | 25–100+ years |
Where LVP Works Best
- Kitchens and bathrooms — fully waterproof
- Basements — handles moisture and subfloor imperfections
- Families with pets and kids — scratch and stain-resistant
- Rental properties — durable and cost-effective
- Whole-home installs — consistent look from room to room
Trend 6: Large-Format Tiles
The Clean, Modern Look of Oversized Tiles
Large-format tiles — typically 24×24 inches or bigger — have been growing in popularity for several years. In 2026, they are a defining feature of modern interiors.
The appeal is visual. Fewer grout lines mean a cleaner, more seamless appearance. A floor tiled with large-format porcelain can look almost like a single unbroken surface. It is especially dramatic in open-plan spaces.
Popular Large-Format Tile Styles in 2026
- Porcelain marble-look tiles — all the beauty of marble without the maintenance
- Concrete-look tiles — industrial but warm, especially in greige and soft charcoal
- Slate and stone-look tiles — textural, earthy, work with natural interior schemes
- Terrazzo tiles — colourful, playful, work in bathrooms and utility rooms
- Large hexagonal tiles — geometric, statement-making
Tile Size Guide
| Tile Size | Best For |
|---|---|
| 12″x12″ (small) | Bathrooms, small kitchens |
| 24″x24″ (standard large) | Kitchens, living areas |
| 24″x48″ (slab format) | Open-plan spaces, hallways |
| 48″x48″+ (very large) | High-end spaces, open plan |
Design Tip
In small bathrooms, use large tiles to make the space feel bigger. Run them up the wall as well as the floor for a seamless spa-like effect.
Trend 7: Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Flooring
Green Flooring Goes Mainstream in 2026
Sustainability is no longer a niche concern. In 2026, eco-conscious flooring choices are mainstream. Consumers are asking questions about where materials come from, how they are made, and what their environmental impact is.
The good news is that eco-friendly flooring has never looked better or been more affordable.
The Best Sustainable Flooring Options
Cork Flooring Cork comes from the bark of cork oak trees. The bark is harvested without cutting the tree down, so it regrows. Cork flooring is soft underfoot, naturally warm, and a great sound absorber. It is ideal for bedrooms, nurseries, and home offices.
Bamboo Flooring Bamboo grows incredibly fast — up to four feet per day — making it one of the most renewable materials available. Modern bamboo flooring is very hard and durable. It works well in kitchens and hallways.
Reclaimed Wood Reclaimed wood flooring uses timber salvaged from old buildings, barns, and industrial spaces. Every plank has a history. The character and warmth of genuinely aged wood is impossible to replicate. It is a premium choice with outstanding environmental credentials.
Linoleum Real linoleum — entirely different vinyl — is made from linseed oil, wood flour, and jute. It is biodegradable, naturally antibacterial, and extremely durable. It is having a strong revival in 2026, now available in beautiful colours and patterns.
Low-VOC Carpets Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are chemicals released by some flooring products that can affect indoor air quality. In 2026, look for carpets made from recycled fibres with FloorScore or GREENGUARD certification. They are healthier for your home, especially if you have children or anyone with asthma.
Recycled-Content LVP Some luxury vinyl products now incorporate recycled plastics and wood fibres in their core construction, reducing their environmental footprint while maintaining excellent performance.
Eco Certifications to Look For
- FSC (Forest Stewardship Council) — responsible wood sourcing
- GREENGUARD — low chemical emissions
- FloorScore — indoor air quality certification
- Cradle to Cradle — broader sustainability assessment
Trend 8: Carpet Is Back — With a Modern Twist
The Comfort Revolution
Carpet fell out of fashion for a while. Hard floors dominated interiors for most of the 2010s. But comfort is having its moment, and carpet is benefiting enormously.
In 2026, carpet is back — but it looks very different from the beige pile carpet of the 1990s.
What is Different About 2026 Carpet Trends?
Colour and pattern. Instead of safe neutrals, homeowners are choosing:
- Rich jewel tones — deep teal, forest green, sapphire blue
- Earthy terracottas and warm ochres
- Statement patterns, including geometric prints and abstract designs
- Textured loop pile that adds visual depth
Better performance. New carpet fibres are stain-resistant, durable, and easier to clean. Wool-blend carpets offer natural luxury with improved resilience. Recycled fibre carpets are eco-friendly and very durable.
Bolder applications. Carpet is showing up in:
- Living rooms with rich, saturated colours
- Staircase runners with a pattern
- Home offices with statement carpet tiles
- Even dining rooms, where it was once considered impractical
Best Rooms for Carpet in 2026
| Room | Recommended Carpet Style |
|---|---|
| Master bedroom | Soft wool, neutral or jewel tone |
| Children’s bedroom | Durable, low VOC, easy-clean |
| Living room | Statement colour or subtle texture |
| Home office | Carpet tiles — flexible and practical |
| Staircase | Runner style, patterned |
Trend 9: Statement and Bold Pattern Floors
When the Floor Becomes the Feature
Not every floor is meant to blend in. In 2026, one of the most exciting flooring directions is using the floor as a genuine design centrepiece.
This is the trend for people who want their home to make a statement. And it does not have to be over the top. Even a simple checkerboard tile in a hallway, or a narrow diamond pattern in a bathroom, can completely transform a space.
Bold Flooring Ideas for 2026
- Black and white checkerboard — works in kitchens, bathrooms, and entryways. Classic and striking.
- Encaustic cement tiles — hand-painted decorative tiles in geometric or floral patterns. Incredible in bathrooms and kitchen splashbacks.
- Bold terrazzo — colourful, chunky, joyful. Works in contemporary spaces.
- Mixed-material inlays — combining different woods or tiles to create custom bordered or geometric designs.
- Coloured grout on neutral tiles — sometimes the bold statement is in the detail.
How to Use Statement Floors Without Overdoing It
Balance is key. If your floor is bold, your walls and furniture should be calm. Choose one statement surface per room — either a feature wall or a feature floor, not both.
In open-plan spaces, use a bold floor in a defined zone (like the kitchen or entryway) and a more neutral option in the adjacent living area.
Trend 10: Smart Flooring and Underfloor Heating Compatibility
Flooring That Works With Modern Technology
This is the trend competitors miss almost entirely. In 2026, flooring choices are increasingly made with technology in mind.
Underfloor heating (UFH) is becoming more common in renovations and new builds. It is efficient, comfortable, and keeps floors warm in winter. But not all flooring materials work well with UFH.
Which Floors Work with Underfloor Heating?
| Flooring Type | Compatible with UFH? | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Tile (porcelain, ceramic) | Excellent | Best conductor of heat |
| Engineered hardwood | Good | Designed for UFH — check manufacturer specs |
| Stone | Excellent | Great heat conductor |
| LVP/LVT | Good | Check for temperature rating |
| Solid hardwood | Limited | Can warp — check specs carefully |
| Laminate | Variable | Some products are rated for UFH |
| Carpet | Poor | Insulates against heat |
Smart Floor Features Emerging in 2026
- Temperature sensors — built into subfloor systems, monitor conditions and protect flooring
- Humidity sensors — alert you to moisture issues before damage occurs
- Heated tile systems — individual tile mat systems with smart controls
- App-controlled underfloor heating — time and temperature controlled from your phone
If you are installing new flooring and your home has or may have underfloor heating in future, always check compatibility before you buy.
Flooring by Room: What Works Where
One of the biggest mistakes people make is choosing one flooring type for the whole house without considering how different rooms are actually used.
Here is a practical guide to the best flooring choices by room in 2026.
Living Room
The living room needs to look beautiful and withstand daily foot traffic.
Best choices:
- Engineered hardwood in a wide plank, warm oak tone
- LVP for families with pets or children
- Carpet in a statement colour or rich texture if you want warmth
- Herringbone LVP for something more distinctive
Avoid: High-gloss finishes (show everything). Overly light colours if you have pets.
Kitchen
The kitchen needs to handle spills, drops, standing for long periods, and heavy foot traffic.
Best choices:
- Large-format porcelain tiles — durable, easy to clean
- LVP or LVT — waterproof and comfortable underfoot
- Vinyl sheet — budget option, fully waterproof
Avoid: Solid hardwood (moisture damage risk). Carpet (impractical).
Bathroom
Bathrooms need fully waterproof, slip-resistant flooring.
Best choices:
- Porcelain tile — the gold standard. Use a textured or matte finish for grip.
- Vinyl — affordable, waterproof, comfortable
- Large-format marble-look tile for a luxury finish
Avoid: Laminate (edges swell with moisture). Solid hardwood.
Bedroom
Bedrooms are about comfort, warmth, and quiet.
Best choices:
- Carpet — soft, warm, sound-absorbing
- Engineered hardwood flooring with a rug on top
- Cork — soft, warm, natural
Avoid: Cold tile without underfloor heating. High-traffic commercial-grade flooring.
Hallway and Stairs
These are high-traffic zones that need maximum durability.
Best choices:
- Porcelain tile — almost indestructible
- LVP — durable and easy to clean
- Herringbone hardwood — statement-making in an entrance
- Carpet runner on stairs — practical and beautiful
Avoid: Light-coloured flooring that shows every mark. Low-quality laminate that will scratch quickly.
Home Office
Home offices benefit from flooring that reduces noise and is easy to maintain.
Best choices:
- Carpet tiles — practical, replaceable, noise-absorbing
- LVP — easy to clean, works with chair mats
- Cork — quiet, comfortable for long hours of sitting
Avoid: Loud, hollow-sounding laminate. High-gloss tiles.
Basement
Basements often have moisture issues and are below grade, so moisture resistance is critical.
Best choices:
- Luxury vinyl (LVP/LVT) — fully waterproof, handles subfloor imperfections
- Porcelain tile — waterproof and durable
- Engineered hardwood — check moisture levels first
Avoid: Solid hardwood (will warp). Carpet (holds moisture and mould).
How to Choose the Right Floor for Your Lifestyle
The Right Questions to Ask Before You Buy
Before you fall in love with a flooring trend, ask yourself these questions:
1. Who lives in the home?
- Small children? Choose something soft underfoot, stain-resistant, and durable.
- Pets? Look for scratch-resistant surfaces and colours that hide pet hair.
- Elderly family members? Non-slip surfaces are a priority.
2. How much traffic does the room get?
- Heavy traffic areas (hallways, kitchens) need maximum durability.
- Light-use rooms (guest bedrooms, home offices) can accommodate more delicate materials.
3. Is moisture an issue?
- Bathrooms, kitchens, basements, and laundry rooms need fully waterproof flooring.
- Living rooms and bedrooms can use wood or carpet safely.
4. What is your budget?
- Set a budget per square metre, including installation and underlay.
- Remember that installation can cost as much as the flooring itself.
5. Do you have underfloor heating?
- If yes, check compatibility before choosing your flooring.
6. How much maintenance are you willing to do?
- Natural stone and hardwood look beautiful but need more care.
- LVP and tile are very low-maintenance.
- Carpet needs regular vacuuming and professional cleaning every 12–18 months.
Lifestyle Guide: Quick Reference
| Lifestyle | Recommended Flooring |
|---|---|
| Young family with kids | LVP, carpet in bedrooms, tile in wet areas |
| Pet owners | Scratch-resistant LVP, easy-clean tile |
| Renters or landlords | Durable LVP — cost-effective and tenant-proof |
| Eco-conscious | Cork, bamboo, reclaimed wood, linoleum |
| Design-focused | Herringbone hardwood, statement tile, wide plank wood |
| Budget-conscious | Laminate (improved quality), LVP entry-level |
| Luxury upgrade | Wide plank engineered oak, natural stone, custom parquet |
Flooring Cost Guide 2026
Competitors rarely include real cost data. Here is a practical breakdown.
All prices are approximate and vary by region, brand, and installer.
Cost Per Square Metre (Supply Only)
| Flooring Type | Budget | Mid-Range | Premium |
|---|---|---|---|
| Laminate | £8–15 | £15–25 | £25–40 |
| LVP / LVT | £12–20 | £20–40 | £40–70 |
| Carpet | £8–15 | £15–30 | £30–80+ |
| Engineered hardwood | £25–40 | £40–70 | £70–120+ |
| Solid hardwood | £35–60 | £60–100 | £100–200+ |
| Porcelain tile | £15–30 | £30–60 | £60–120+ |
| Cork | £20–35 | £35–55 | £55–80 |
| Bamboo | £20–40 | £40–65 | £65–100 |
| Natural stone | £40–80 | £80–150 | £150–400+ |
Installation Cost
Always budget for installation on top of material costs.
- Basic laminate or LVP click installation: £8–15 per m²
- Herringbone pattern installation: £15–30 per m² (more complex layout)
- Tile installation: £20–40 per m²
- Carpet fitting: £5–12 per m²
- Hardwood installation: £15–30 per m²
- Natural stone: £30–60 per m²
Don’t Forget Hidden Costs
- Underlay — needed for laminate, LVP, and carpet. Budget £3–10 per m².
- Subfloor preparation — levelling, damp proof membrane, and screeding.
- Skirting board replacement — often needed after flooring installation.
- Waste allowance — add 10% to your measurement for cuts and waste. For herringbone, add 15%.
- Threshold strips — where different flooring meets at doorways.
Flooring Maintenance Tips
Beautiful flooring lasts longer when it is cared for correctly. Here is what you need to know.
Hardwood and Engineered Wood
- Daily: Sweep or dust mop. Never let dirt accumulate — grit acts like sandpaper.
- Weekly: Vacuum on hard floor setting. Use a lightly damp mop with a pH-neutral wood floor cleaner.
- Never: Use steam mops, excessive water, or harsh cleaning products.
- Annually: Check for scratches. Engineered hardwood can be sanded and refinished once or twice in its lifetime.
Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP)
- Daily: Sweep or vacuum to remove grit.
- Weekly: Mop with warm water and a small amount of pH-neutral cleaner.
- Never: Use abrasive cleaners, wax, or polish. Never use a steam mop — heat can damage the wear layer.
- Tip: Use felt pads under furniture legs to prevent scratching.
Tile and Stone
- Daily: Sweep to remove grit.
- Weekly: Mop with a pH-neutral tile cleaner. For natural stone, always use a stone-specific cleaner — acidic products will etch the surface.
- Grout: Seal grout lines every 1–2 years to prevent staining. Clean with a grout brush and appropriate cleaner.
Carpet
- Daily/as needed: Vacuum high-traffic areas. Blot spills immediately — never rub.
- Weekly: Thorough vacuum with a good-quality cleaner, including edges.
- Every 12–18 months: Professional deep clean to remove embedded dirt and allergens.
- Tip: Rotate furniture occasionally to prevent permanent indentations.
Laminate
- Daily: Sweep or vacuum with a soft head.
- Weekly: Damp mop only. Avoid excess water — laminate swells with prolonged moisture.
- Never: Steam mop. Wax. Abrasive cleaners.
Cork
- Daily: Sweep gently.
- Weekly: Lightly damp mop with a mild cleaner.
- Annually: Reseal if you have an oiled or waxed cork floor. A sealed cork needs less maintenance.
- Avoid: Stiletto heels and heavy furniture without wide feet — cork dents more easily than hardwood.
Common Flooring Mistakes to Avoid
No competitor covers this. Here are the most common and costly flooring mistakes — and how to avoid them.
1. Not Acclimatising Wood Flooring
Wood expands and contracts with temperature and humidity. If you lay it straight out of the box, it may gap or buckle later. Let solid and engineered hardwood sit in the room where it will be installed for at least 48–72 hours before laying.
2. Ignoring Subfloor Preparation
A perfect floor starts with a perfect subfloor. Uneven, damp, or weak subfloors cause flooring to creak, buckle, or fail over time. Always fix subfloor issues before laying new flooring.
3. Choosing Style Over Function for the Room
Falling in love with a floor in a showroom is easy. Fitting solid oak in a downstairs bathroom, however, is a costly mistake. Always match the flooring to the demands of the room.
4. Forgetting to Add 10–15% for Waste
Measure your room and add at least 10% for cuts and waste. For patterned or herringbone layouts, add 15%. Running out of flooring mid-job is a nightmare — especially with natural materials where each batch can vary slightly in colour.
5. Choosing Flooring in Showroom Lighting
The light in a showroom is designed to make materials look their best. Always take samples home and look at them in your own light — morning light, afternoon light, evening light with lamps on. Colours can look completely different.
6. Overlooking Transition Strips
Where two different flooring materials meet — in a doorway, for example — you need a transition strip. Forgetting these creates an unfinished look and can also be a trip hazard.
7. Buying Based on Price Alone
The cheapest option often costs more in the long run. A low-quality laminate that scratches and swells after two years will need replacing far sooner than a mid-range LVP that lasts 20+ years.
8. Not Checking Warranty Terms
Always read the warranty before you buy. Check what it covers — manufacturer defects, wear, and waterproofing. Also, check whether DIY installation voids the warranty.
Flooring Buying Guide Checklist
Use this before making any flooring purchase.
Before You Buy
- Measure your room accurately (length × width + 10–15% for waste)
- Identify the room’s moisture level (is a damp proof membrane needed?)
- Confirm underfloor heating compatibility if relevant
- Set a total budget including materials, underlay, and installation
- Take samples home and view in your own light
- Check whether your subfloor needs preparation
Choosing the Product
- Check the wear layer thickness (for LVP) — aim for 6mm+ for heavy use
- Check the AC rating (for laminate) — AC3 minimum for domestic, AC4+ for heavy use
- Read the warranty terms
- Confirm the return/exchange policy before ordering
- Order 10–15% extra for waste
Before Installation
- Let the wood flooring acclimate in the room for 48–72 hours
- Ensure the subfloor is clean, dry, and level (within 3mm over 1.8 metres)
- Purchase appropriate underlay
- Organise transition strips for doorways
After Installation
- Allow adhesives or levelling compounds to cure before walking on the floor
- Fit skirting boards or replace architrave
- Keep a few spare planks or tiles from the same batch for future repairs
Conclusion
Flooring is one of the most impactful choices you can make in your home. The right floor does not just look good on day one. It works hard every single day, handles everything your family throws at it, and still looks beautiful years later.
In 2026, the direction is clear. Warmth, authenticity, and practicality are driving every major trend. Whether you go for wide plank honey oak, a striking herringbone layout, a bold statement tile, or a fully waterproof LVP that keeps up with pets and kids — there has never been a better time to upgrade your floors.
The beauty of today’s flooring market is choice. Every budget, every lifestyle, and every design taste is catered for. You do not have to compromise on style to get durability. You do not have to sacrifice practicality to get a floor that looks genuinely stunning.
Use the guides, room breakdowns, cost comparisons, and buying checklist in this article to make a confident, informed decision. Take your time. Order samples. View them in your own light, in your own home, before you commit.
And if you are still not sure where to start — browse our flooring ranges, request free samples, or speak to one of our flooring experts today. We are here to help you find the perfect floor, from the ground up.
FAQ: Your Flooring Questions Answered
What is the most popular flooring type in 2026?
Luxury vinyl plank (LVP) is the most popular flooring choice in 2026. It is waterproof, durable, extremely realistic in appearance, and available at a range of price points. Wide plank engineered hardwood is the top choice for those who want real wood.
What colour floors are trending in 2026?
Warm tones are dominating in 2026. Honey oak, caramel, chestnut, and mid-tone naturals have replaced the cool grey tones that were popular in the 2010s and early 2020s. Soft greige (grey-beige) is also very popular as a warm neutral.
Is herringbone flooring still on trend in 2026?
Yes, absolutely. Herringbone is one of the standout flooring trends of 2026. It is available in hardwood, engineered wood, LVP, and tile, making it more accessible than ever. Chevron is also very popular, especially in kitchens and bathrooms.
What flooring is best for homes with pets?
Scratch-resistant luxury vinyl plank (LVP) is the best flooring for pet owners. It is waterproof, durable, and comfortable underfoot. Choose a mid-to-dark tone to hide pet hair between cleanings, and look for a thick wear layer (6mm or more) for maximum scratch resistance.
What is the most durable flooring for high-traffic areas?
Porcelain tile is virtually indestructible and ideal for high-traffic areas like hallways and kitchens. LVP with a thick wear layer is the best choice if you want a wood look with excellent durability. For budget projects, an AC4-rated laminate is also a strong performer.
Is it worth spending more on engineered hardwood vs. laminate?
For most homeowners, yes. Engineered hardwood contains a real wood veneer and can be sanded and refinished once or twice, extending its life significantly. It also adds more to property value than laminate. However, a premium laminate can be an excellent choice for budget renovations or rental properties.
What flooring is best for a kitchen?
Porcelain tile or LVP are the two best options for kitchens. Both are waterproof, durable, and easy to clean. Porcelain tile lasts longer but is harder underfoot. LVP is warmer and more comfortable when standing for long periods.
What flooring adds the most value to a property?
Real hardwood flooring — both solid and engineered — consistently adds the most value to a property. Natural stone is also highly valued. Buyers associate these materials with quality, and they have a lasting appeal that trends come and go around.
How long does flooring installation take?
A typical room (20–25m²) can be laid in one day for click-lock LVP or laminate. Tile work takes longer due to adhesive and grout curing time — typically 2–3 days per room before the floor is ready to walk on. Herringbone layouts take longer than straight lays.
Should I use the same flooring throughout my home?
Using the same flooring (or very similar tones) throughout an open-plan space creates a sense of flow and makes the home feel larger. In multi-level homes, it is common to use hardwood or LVP on the ground floor and carpet upstairs. The key is to make sure transitions between different materials look intentional.
