Hybrid flooring is the latest innovation in interior flooring in Australia that is slowly becoming one of the most popular choices for customers.
Hybrid flooring is composed of a stone, wood or infused polymer composite core, which provides the structural base for the print and wear layer.
Hybrid flooring gives the benefits of waterproof vinyl plank flooring, and the click-lock system and high scratch resistance of laminate flooring, to create a sustainable, durable, and aesthetic solution to domestic and commercial floor spaces.
The click-lock floating system makes hybrid flooring easy to DIY for interested customers since it does not need to be glued/nailed to the subfloor, which does not have to be perfectly leveled. Most of our hybrid boards come with underlay pre-attached for even greater ease of installation.
Hybrid Types
Hybrid flooring comes in several different types, including SPC, WPC and IPC. These different types are based on the core composition and structure of the board. All types of hybrid flooring have a surface wear layer and UV coating for protection over a wood print design.
SPC – (Stone Polymer Composite)
SPC Hybrid Boards have a core made of limestone particles and UV stabilisers, constructed for maximum durability and waterproofing.
WPC – (Wood Polymer Composite)
WPC Hybrid Boards have a core made of wood particles as well as wood/bamboo flour, limestone particles, stabilisers, a foaming agent and PVC.
IPC – (Infused Polymer Composite)
IPC Hybrid Boards have a core that is infused with wood or stone particles. IPC cores are aerated for higher flexibility and strength.
The maintenance required for Hybrid Flooring depends on the specific type of flooring, but generally, the following tips can help keep your hybrid flooring looking its best:
Clean regularly: Regular cleaning with a damp mop or cloth can help keep your flooring looking clean and free from dirt and debris.
Avoid harsh chemicals: Avoid using harsh chemicals, such as abrasive cleaners or strong solvents, on your hybrid flooring.
Protect from scratches: Place rugs or mats at doorways and high-traffic areas to protect your flooring from scratches and scuffs.
Use furniture pads: Place furniture pads under heavy furniture to avoid scratches or dents.
Avoid standing water: Do not allow standing water to sit on your hybrid flooring for extended periods of time, as this can cause damage.
The cost of installing Hybrid Planks varies depending on several factors, including:
Size of the room: The larger the room, the higher the cost of installation.
Type of Hybrid Planks: The cost of different types of Hybrid Planks may vary, with some being more expensive than others.
Labour costs: The cost of installation can vary depending on the complexity of the project and the experience of the installer.
Additional costs: There may be additional costs involved, such as subfloor preparation or the cost of underlayment materials.
On average, the cost of installing Hybrid Planks ranges from $25 to $40 per square metre, but it can be higher or lower depending on the specific circumstances of the project. It is best to get a quote from us for an accurate estimate of the cost of installation.
Like Vinyl flooring, Hybrid planks are highly resistant to damage by short term water or moisture exposure, unlike Laminate, Engineered Timber or Solid TImber flooring. However, long term moisture exposure in the case of floods or other accidents may cause the flooring to warp, fade or delaminate. In such cases it is often best to check the residential warranty of your product.
Hybrid flooring has the versatility to be suited for any room in a house, from the living room to the kitchen even to the bathroom. When selecting what type of Hybrid flooring to choose, it is important to consider the acoustic and dimensional requirements, as these will impact the thickness of the boards needed. Also if installation is needed to be done DIY, thinner boards are much easier to lay down onto the subfloor, which may be an important consideration.
As compared to traditional hardwood or vinyl floors, which have dyes that struggle to resist UV light, hybrid flooring will maintain its original colour and design long term. However, proper care is always needed and this is assuming that it is not constantly direct sunlight. Curtains and UV blocking windows are a great way to mitigate sunlight fading.
Hybrid flooring commonly comes in a floating click-lock system, in which each plank is laid down and interlocked without needing glue or nailing to the subfloor. This makes it very easy for customers to DIY, and reduces the time needed for professional installation
Hybrid flooring is the perfect combination of style and substance. It offers the perks of vinyl flooring such as being waterproof and durable, while being easy to install and aesthetically matching hardwood floors, like laminate and engineered flooring. Being scratch resistant it is also pet friendly. So if you’re looking for a flooring option that is both stylish and practical, hybrid flooring is the way to go.