a pro this autumn

Simple floor solutions

Many vinyl and laminate planks convincingly mimic real timber, and can even be laid in a herringbone pattern

Foot soldiers

Transform one of your home’s major surfaces speedily with a quick flooring fix

If daggy flooring is letting down the side, raising your interiors game might be easier than you think. For a more complete resolution than simply adding a rug, there are many quick-fix DIY solutions to choose from in vinyl and laminate. “Vinyl planks and tiles come in a great variety of colours, patterns and timber looks, and can create a classy and budget-friendly solution for everybody, even renters,” says interior designer Martina Hayes. “It’s a great way to add your own personality and a pop of colour.”

Get the look “The wide selection of designs, price points, finish and method of installation means there is a vinyl flooring option for everyone,” says Denise Retallick from Gerflor. “Light-coloured, ultrarealistic timbers, such as oak in blond or grey tones, are trending right now. These have the look and feel of real timber without the expense, high maintenance and gaps of solid timber floors.” Love the chequerboard look? There’s a vinyl tile for that, while hybrid options include tiles made to look like concrete or stone.

Pros and cons An appealing aspect of vinyl flooring for the DIYer is that it often does not need underlay. “The surface you lay it over just needs to be stable, level and sealed against moisture,” says Denise. It’s easy on your wallet, long-lasting and comfortable underfoot. For renters, peel and stick vinyl is a fantastic option. “The removable adhesive leaves little or no residue, making it easy to replace or remove,” explains Martina.

Preparation, as always, is the key to success. “If laying peel and stick over tiles, fill the grout crevices using self-levelling compound, so the new floor doesn’t take on the profile of the tiles underneath,” says Denise.

Vinyl is waterproof when properly laid, the only downside being it shouldn’t be installed in a shower. On the other hand, laminate – with a fibreboard and resin core – is only water-resistant, so is not recommended for wet areas. A better alternative is hybrid flooring, which has a waterproof core.

Easy does it “Vinyl is often one of the first DIY flooring projects completed by those who are upgrading a room,” says Denise. “You can even move furniture around as you work, because the peel and stick tiles can be walked on straightaway.” Trimming vinyl tiles or planks to fit can be done with a score and snap method using a utility knife (see our story on the following page for a step-by-step guide to laying vinyl planks).

Laminate and some vinyl planks use an interlocking system that clicks into place and can be laid over existing flooring, provided it’s smooth and level. The trickiest part with laminate is cutting the boards to fit – you’ll need a handsaw or circular saw – but nevertheless it’s a simple way to give your room a whole new look in as little as a weekend. ◆

Senso ‘Urban’ 914mm x 152mm x 2mm self-adhesive vinyl planks in Whitetech, $60.95/pack of 16 (2.20sqm, $27.70/sqm), I/N: 6600075

Hanwood 61cm x 30.5cm vinyl hybrid tile in Alpine Marble, $78.05/pack of 12 (2.23sqm, $35/sqm), I/N: 0177388

Senso ‘Rustic’ 914mm x 152mm x 2mm self adhesive vinyl planks in Walnut, $60.95/pack of 16 (2.20sqm, $27.70/sqm), I/N: 6600039

Senso ‘Prime’ 305mm x 305mm x 1.3mm vinyl tiles in Slate Anthracite, $14.32/pack of 11 (1.15sqm, $11.02/sqm), I/N: 8916167 Some products are not available at all Bunnings stores, but may be ordered

Pro tip

To cut vinyl tiles, press down on the vinyl to create a crease, or score top and underneath before cutting. You can also use a hair dryer to soften the vinyl and make a sharper crease

A black and white tile option is a classic look with retro vibes that will never go out of style. For similar, try Senso ‘Prime’ 305mm x 305mm x 1.3mm vinyl tiles in Black, $14.32/1sqm, I/N: 8916165, and 305mm x 305mm x 1.3mm vinyl tiles in White, $14.32/1sqm, I/N: 8916162

Watch it!

Update your space with laminate planks: bunnings. co.nz/how-to-laylaminate-flooring