How to choose the right flooring for your flat

Whether you have purchased or are renting a flat, there are many aspects you may want to change to make the space feel like home, from the colour of the walls to the flooring. However, before making any changes, there are several factors to consider when selecting flooring for a flat. With neighbours on all sides, sound insulation should be a top priority, but the type of flat you live in will also influence your decision.

There are key differences between selecting flooring for a flat versus a house. In a house, your personal taste and lifestyle are the primary considerations. In a flat, however, you need to account for neighbours living above, below, or next to you, making quieter flooring a necessity, among other factors.

• Good sound absorption – Noise travels easily, so selecting flooring with excellent sound absorption is crucial. This is especially important if you live with someone who may have a heavy step or a loud voice. A high-quality underlay can also help with noise reduction.
   
• Durability – With a single floor and fewer rooms, foot traffic tends to be higher throughout the space. Choosing a highly durable flooring option is essential, particularly in rented flats where multiple tenants may occupy the property over time.
   
• Ease of maintenance – If you rent your flat or plan to rent it out in the future, low-maintenance flooring that is stain-resistant and easy to clean is a practical choice.
   
• Cost-effectiveness – Many flats serve as a first home rather than a permanent residence. As a result, it may not be wise to invest heavily in flooring if you plan to move within a few years.

The layout and type of flat you live in will also impact your flooring choices, as each presents unique challenges:

• Studio apartment – With living, dining, and sleeping areas combined, your flooring must be a versatile, multi-functional option.
   
• Open-plan apartment – Using the same flooring throughout your space creates a sense of continuity and makes the area feel larger.
   
• Ground-floor flat – If you have a garden, you’ll likely have muddy footprints coming inside, so water-resistant flooring is essential. Ground-floor flats also tend to be colder, so good thermal insulation is necessary.
   
• First-floor flat – With neighbours both above and below, soundproof flooring is vital to reduce noise from footsteps and conversation.
   
• Top-floor flat or loft apartment – These flats receive ample natural light, often requiring UV-resistant flooring to prevent fading from sunlight exposure.

If you’re a landlord, the most cost-effective flooring solutions are those that are durable and easy to clean. The following flooring types are well-suited to rented flats:

Carpet – A popular choice due to its insulating and sound-absorbing properties. High-quality carpets are available that are robust, stain-resistant, and soft underfoot. When paired with luxury vinyl in kitchens and bathrooms, they offer a practical combination.

Laminate – A favourite among landlords due to its affordability, durability, and low maintenance. It replicates the look of real wood and is easy to replace if individual planks become damaged. However, underlay is necessary for noise reduction.

Luxury Vinyl (LVT) – Though more expensive than laminate, luxury vinyl is water- and stain-resistant, making it ideal for high-footfall areas. Some styles include built-in underlay for extra insulation and comfort, and it is available in both wood and stone tile designs.

Vinyl – A budget-friendly smooth flooring option that mimics the appearance of ceramic tiles. Available in a variety of colourful and stylish designs, some vinyl ranges feature cushioned felt backing for improved sound and heat insulation.

Engineered Wood – If you’re looking to invest in your flat, engineered wood flooring adds a touch of luxury. Comprising multiple layers, it reduces sound transmission and is a superior choice to solid wood for flats.

Before installing laminate flooring in your flat, check your legal documentation. Many leasehold agreements prohibit hard flooring in flats above the ground floor due to noise concerns. If you install laminate flooring in violation of leasehold rules, you may need to remove it before selling the flat. Consulting your flat management company beforehand can prevent costly mistakes.

There are numerous flooring choices available for flats, and budget is often the deciding factor. Your decision should be based on how much you want to invest versus how long you intend to live in the property. Visiting a flooring specialist can provide valuable insight, allowing you to explore different samples and find the perfect flooring solution for your home.