Flooring Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Welcome to the Designa Floors Frequently asked flooring questions. On this page, we hope that you will be able to find any missing information you may find relevant. We have tried to cover as many search topics as possible, but obviously, there may be questions or information you can’t find. If this is the case, please don’t hesitate to reach out with your question using the contact form at the bottom of the page.
What direction should my Laminates be laid?
Aesthetically, you should aim to lay your Laminates with the flow of the room in mind. So, wherever your main entrance is or the way in which the light comes into the room.
In which area do I start laying my Laminates?
As a rule, start from the upper left corner of the room, usually in the same direction as the main light source. Laminates must not be laid flush against the wall to allow for expansion.
Why is a moisture barrier used?
A moisture barrier prevents damage to your floor should your subfloor be susceptible to moisture or if your flooring is laid in an area like a bathroom where it is exposed to dampness. The moisture barrier is simply a thick sheet of plastic that is laid on top of the subfloor. Your laminates are laid on top of this.
What is the toughest floor covering?
Depending on your area, the maintenance and aesthetic, tough means a few things:
- Hardwood – although durable and can last many years these are susceptible to more wear and tear, for example, water damage and cracks
- Laminate – probably the least maintenance, most durable and also very affordable.
- Cork – Both durable and environmentally friendly, especially great for high traffic areas, but there is a downfall in that it can chip with sharp objects such as heels.
- Vinyl – A very durable and affordable product and offered in an array of styles and colours.
What is the easiest floor covering to maintain?
When it comes to maintaining a flooring type, Vinyl is probably the one to go for. Most have a 15-year warranty, and they are easy to clean, well-priced and versatile too.
Why do I leave a gap when laying Laminates?
Laminates need to expand and contract in accordance with the humidity and temperature of the areas. If you do not leave a gap this may cause your laminates to bulge or pop.
Does Vinyl expand?
All types of vinyl flooring are not just water-resistant but are waterproof. Sheet vinyl, vinyl tile, and luxury vinyl flooring are usually made with materials that are 100-per cent waterproof. In full bathrooms and damp locations such as basements, vinyl flooring materials excel over laminate materials.
Can I put furniture on my Vinyl?
Yes, for extra protection use furniture pads under the legs of chairs, couches and tables etc.
Is Vinyl and Linoleum the same?
No, although they are similar in colour and style and very versatile when it comes to installing, they are made differently, so it really is a matter of choice. Vinyl is a synthetic product and composed of PVC and is waterproof, whilst Linoleum is made up of more natural materials such as cork dust, linseed oil and wood flour etc. and may need extra care when installing and requires waterproofing.
What problems does Vinyl have?
Correct floor installations will go a long way in preserving your Vinyl floor, but general wear and tear can be the cause of problems. Stains, scratches, peeling etc can be evident depending on maintenance and care of your floor.
Is Vinyl flooring padded?
Most good quality Vinyl products have a padded underlay so can be installed over a clean, smooth concrete subfloor, or over other floor surfaces. This makes it softer underfoot and warmer than ceramic tiles.
What types of Vinyl are there?
- LVT (Luxury Vinyl Tiling)
- Glue Down – 2 to 3 mm thick – these are not padded and are usually stuck down directly on the subfloor/smooth cement screed.
- SPC – (stone plastic composite) Durable and waterproof, mimicking stone and wood.
- WPC – (wood plastic composite) Waterproof, interlocking system, engineered planks which makes for easy DIY instalment and compliments for a modern look, giving a realistic wood appeal.
Can I rent flooring?
Yes! We have partnered with MobiCred to allow our customers to affordably rent-to-own their flooring.
What is Rent-to-own flooring?
- We provide you with a small selection of laminate or vinyl flooring options to choose from.
- These options are carefully selected to ensure colour and stock availability.
- We come and lay your selected choice of flooring on top of your current flooring, without causing any damage.
- You pay for your new floor using Mobicred option.
- This will allow Mobicred to carry the cost of your purchase while you make affordable monthly repayments, then,
- When it comes time for you to leave, we come and uplift the flooring and refit it for you in your new space!
- If you need more flooring because your new space is larger, we simply organise some more and you settle the balance.
What happens to my old flooring when it is removed?
Designa Floors looks to give back wherever we can. As such, we have started an initiative whereby we work closely with community leaders within disadvantaged communities to donate the undamaged portions of flooring that we remove. This flooring is taken into these communities where it is fitted into their homes. This helps keep out the cold to provide warmth and comfort.
How does MobiCred work?
MobiCred is a financial institution that is capable of providing credit that is not linked to your credit card or bank at all! Using your MobiCred account to make a purchase means that MobiCred will carry the cost of your purchase, allowing you to make affordable monthly repayments.
Can I buy flooring with MobiCred?
Yes! We have partnered with Mobicred to make purchasing your flooring a little more affordable. Now you can have the floor of your dreams for a small monthly fee.