Our Guide To Hybrid
Hybrid flooring is a type of flooring that combines features of laminate and vinyl to create a durable, versatile and affordable flooring option. Here are some key characteristics of hybrid flooring to help you decide whether Hybrid flooring is the right choice for you.
The Basics
Hybrid flooring typically consists of multiple layers. These usually include a top wear layer for protection, a decorative layer that mimics the look of wood or stone, a rigid core layer that provides stability and durability, and an underlayer for comfort and sound absorption. The rigid core layer, often made from materials like stone plastic composite (SPC) or wood plastic composite (WPC), makes hybrid flooring highly durable and resistant to dents, scratches, and impacts. This makes it suitable for high-traffic areas. The decorative layer of hybrid flooring can replicate the look of various natural materials, such as hardwood, stone, or tile, providing a wide range of design options to match different interior styles.
While hybrid flooring offers many benefits, there are certain situations where it may not be the best choice. We don’t recommend using Hybrid flooring in areas or homes that encounter extreme temperature fluctuations, are highly humid or spaces that are in direct sunlight.
Quality
The quality of the top coat wear layer should not be underestimated as this is what makes Hybrid durable, hardwearing and scratch-resistant. Scratches from debris, furniture moving and human interaction can be avoided by selecting a quality Hybrid that has a better wear layer. It is always good practice to lift furniture instead of dragging when moving it across your floor and using felt pads on the feet of furniture.
One of the standout features of hybrid flooring is its water resistance. It is often waterproof or highly water-resistant, making it suitable for areas prone to moisture, such as kitchens, bathrooms, and basements.
The built-in underlayment layer adds comfort underfoot and helps with noise reduction, making hybrid flooring a comfortable and quiet choice for living spaces.
Installation
Similar to Laminate, Hybrid flooring is designed for easy installation, often featuring a click-lock system that allows the planks to be installed without the need for glue or nails. This makes it a popular choice for DIY projects.
Maintenance
Hybrid flooring is relatively low-maintenance. It can be easily cleaned with regular sweeping and mopping using a spray mop with a microfibre head.