Modern kitchen design featuring beautiful Australis Spotted Gum engineered timber flooring. Warm, natural wood tones complement the island and cabinetry.
Modern kitchen with Australis Spotted Gum engineered timber flooring, stone island bench, and sleek cabinetry.Modern kitchen with Australis Spotted Gum engineered timber flooring, stone island bench, and sleek cabinetry.

The Ultimate Flooring Guide

Find the Perfect Fit for Your Home

So, you've decided it's time for a new floor—but where do you start? Questions like "Which one is the best?" and "Can I afford it?" might be running through your head. Here’s a little secret: there’s no single “best” floor. Instead, the best floor is the one that suits your home, lifestyle, and budget. 

At Beaumont Tiles, we live and breathe flooring (yes, even beyond tiles!), and we’re here to simplify your decision-making. Whether you want a sleek and modern feel, a rustic timber aesthetic, or something that can handle the chaos of kids and pets, we’ve got you covered. 

Let’s dive into the world of flooring, exploring different types and key considerations so you can make the best choice for your home. 

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The Main Flooring Types & Their Features Explained 

Flooring has come a long way, and today’s market offers a variety of stylish, durable, and practical choices. 

Here’s a quick rundown of what’s available here at Beaumont Tiles!

 

Luxury Vinyl Plank 

This isn’t your grandma’s old-school lino! Our Luxury Vinyl Plank range delivers the warmth of timber with the durability of a high-performance floor. Water-resistant, scratch-resistant, and incredibly easy to maintain, it’s ideal for busy homes, rental properties, and commercial spaces. 

Technical Benefits: 

✔ Water Resistant – Suitable for use in most indoor areas, offering reliable water resistance. Not recommended for spaces with consistently high moisture, such as bathrooms, powder rooms, laundries, or outdoor environments.

Importantly, a plank can always be waterproof on its own, but that doesn’t necessarily mean your floor will be fully waterproof once laid (unlike a tiled floor). That’s why we say water-resistant when talking about hard flooring (in fact, it’s a requirement in the building industry)! 

✔ High Durability – Built to handle the hustle of daily life—from playful pets to busy feet—while keeping its look intact.

✔ Realistic Design – Advanced printing technology mimics authentic timber, stone, and tile textures.

✔ Soft & Quiet – The underfoot feel is softer than tiles or timber, and built-in acoustic backing minimises noise.

✔ Easy Installation – Suitable for direct stick/glue-down installation

 Best for: High-traffic areas, commercial spaces, and rental properties.

For more detail on cleaning your chosen hard flooring material:

 

Stylish bedroom with Tranquil Blackbutt luxury vinyl plank flooring, minimalist decor, and grey feature wall.Stylish bedroom with Tranquil Blackbutt luxury vinyl plank flooring, minimalist decor, and grey feature wall.
Featured Product: 1295563 Tranquil Blackbutt Luxury Vinyl Textured
Living room featuring Charm Natural Oak Herringbone hybrid flooring with textured finish, complemented by modern furniture and neutral decor.Living room featuring Charm Natural Oak Herringbone hybrid flooring with textured finish, complemented by modern furniture and neutral decor.
Featured Product: 1299524 Charm Natural Oak Herringbone Hybrid Textured

Hybrid Flooring

Can’t decide between laminate and vinyl? Hybrid flooring has a revolutionary combination of laminate and vinyl flooring technologies. It consists of a UV-protected top layer, a decorative film, a rigid core, and an acoustic underlay. Our hybrid flooring core is Stone Plastic Composite (SPC).

Technical Benefits: 

✔ Water Resistant – Suitable for use in most indoor areas, offering reliable water resistance. Not recommended for spaces with consistently high moisture, such as bathrooms, powder rooms, laundries, or outdoor environments.

Importantly, a plank can always be waterproof on its own, but that doesn’t necessarily mean your floor will be fully waterproof once laid (unlike a tiled floor). That’s why we say water-resistant when talking about hard flooring (in fact, it’s a requirement in the building industry)! 

✔ Easy Installation – Quick and easy floating floor system with click-lock interlocking planks.

✔ Low Maintenance – Resistant to stains and scratches. 

 Best for: Homes with pets, families with kids, and high-traffic spaces.

For more detail on cleaning your chosen hard flooring material:

Laminate Flooring

If you love the look of timber but need something tougher and more affordable, laminate flooring is a fantastic choice. It’s made from compressed wood with a photographic timber design layer, giving it a realistic woodgrain appearance without the cost of real hardwood.

Laminate flooring features a high-resolution wood-look print over a high-density fibreboard (HDF) core, protected by a durable wear layer. 

Technical Benefits:

✔ Budget-Friendly – One of the most affordable wood-look flooring options.

✔ Scratch-Resistant – Great for homes with pets and kids.

✔ Easy Installation – Quick and easy floating floor system with click-lock interlocking planks.

✔ Water Resistant Laminate – Unlike most laminate flooring, Beaumonts sell two ranges of water-resistant laminate, This means you can safely use your steam mop to clean your spectaular new floor!

Importantly, a plank can always be waterproof on its own, but that doesn’t necessarily mean your floor will be fully waterproof once laid (unlike a tiled floor). That’s why we say water-resistant when talking about hard flooring (in fact, it’s a requirement in the building industry)! 

 Best for: Bedrooms, living areas and kitchens.

For more detail on cleaning your chosen hard flooring material:

Living room featuring Harmony Linen Oak water-resistant laminate flooring with textured finish, complemented by modern furniture and neutral decor.Living room featuring Harmony Linen Oak water-resistant laminate flooring with textured finish, complemented by modern furniture and neutral decor.
Featured Product: 1297048 Harmony Linen Oak Water Resistant Laminate
Modern living room featuring Australis Blackbutt engineered timber flooring with textured finish, complemented by contemporary furniture and neutral decor.Modern living room featuring Australis Blackbutt engineered timber flooring with textured finish, complemented by contemporary furniture and neutral decor.
Featured Product: 1297987 Australis Blackbutt Engineered Timber Textured 14/3 Nested

Engineered Timber Flooring

Want the warmth and beauty of real timber without the hefty price tag of solid wood? Engineered timber consists of a real hardwood veneer layer bonded to a multi-layer plywood, making it more stable than solid timber. 

Technical Benefits: 

✔ Genuine Timber Aesthetic – Provides the warmth and beauty of real wood.

✔ Stable Construction – Less prone to expansion/contraction compared to solid timber. 

✔ Traditional tongue and groove installation – Offers flexibility based on preference and subfloor conditions, suitable for both floating and direct stick applications 

 Best for: Upscale homes, living spaces, and apartments.

For more details and inspiration on Engineered Timber Flooring: 

Tiles

Tiles are a safe and practical flooring choice, a material proven for millennia to be durable and beautiful. Their hygienic and clean nature makes them ideal for use throughout your entire home.

Technical Benefits:

✔ Pet-Friendly – One of the most affordable wood-look flooring options.

✔ Scratch-Resistant – One of the hardest floor coverings

✔ Underfloor Heating Compatible – Indulge in comfort underfoot with warm tiles during the cold months 

✔ Waterproof – Suitable for mixed use and wet areas with the correct slip rating

✔ Photo Quality Designs - Stone, Timber, Terrazzo

✔ Low Maintenance – Easy to clean

 Best for: Indoor/Outdoor Transitions, Hallways, Bathrooms, Kitchens, Outdoor, Open Plan Living, Splashbacks, Feature Walls

Tiles can be used throught your home but ensure you are using the correct slip rated tiles. For more detail on installing your chosen tiles:

Outdoor featuring Crossland Match Extra Textured tiles, complemented by minimalist furniture and neutral decor.Outdoor featuring Crossland Match Extra Textured tiles, complemented by minimalist furniture and neutral decor.
Featured Product: 1293656 Crossland Match Extra Textured Tile

Smart Flooring Starts Here: Key Factors to Consider When Choosing Flooring 

To help you navigate the often overwhelming world of flooring options, we've outlined the crucial key factors that will guide you towards a satisfying and long-lasting choice.

 

5 Essential Factors to Consider Before You Commit

Avoid costly mistakes, ask yourself these important questions. If you're unsure, talk to one of our experts!

  1. Property Type & Usage: Where am I going to use this?

    • Residential: Choose based on comfort, aesthetic preference, and maintenance needs.

    • Commercial: Prioritise durability, slip resistance, and ease of cleaning.

  2. Moisture Resistance: How resistant do I need the product to be? 

    • Wet areas (bathrooms/laundry): Tiles

    • High moisture (kitchens): Hybrid, Vinyl, Water Resistant Laminate and Tiles

    • Dry areas (living spaces/bedrooms): Laminate, Engineered Timber, Hybrid, Vinyl or Tiles 

    • Outdoor Areas: Tiles or Porcelain Paver.

    • Slip ratings are important factors to consider too 

  3. Foot Traffic & Durability: Consider how frequently the space will used. 

    • Residential: Will it just be your family and pets?
    • Commercial: Will it be needed for a higher traffic space like commercial?

  4. Installation Method: Will this be for DIY or will you hire a professional?

    • Provided you have relevant DIY experience and have thoroughly reviewed the product documentation and warranty terms, you can proceed with confidence.

    • Here at Beaumont Tiles we always recommend a professional to come and install.

  1. Budget Breakdown

Type of Floor 

Residential Durability 

Water Resistance 

Apartment Suitability 

Installation

    Market Price (inc installation) 

    Luxury Vinyl

High

 Medium-High

 Yes 

Easy installation, expert subfloor preparation required

Affordable
($55 – $70/sqm) 

     Hybrid

High

 Medium-High

 Yes 

Easy installation, expert subfloor preparation required 

 Affordable
($55 – $70/sqm) 
    Laminate 

Medium – High

 Low – High

 Yes 

 Easy installation, expert subfloor preparation required

Affordable
($40-$75 /sqm) 

    Engineered Timber 

Medium 

 Low – Medium 

 Yes 

 Expert installation recommened 

Moderate
($100-$150/sqm) 

    Ceramic Tiles 

Execellent

High

 Sometimes 

 Various: Easy DIY to expert installation

Moderate
($80-$140/sqm) 

Beaumont Tiles: Your Trusted Flooring Experts 

With over 60 years of experience, Beaumont Tiles is Australia’s leading flooring and tile specialist. We offer:

✅ Australia’s Largest Range of tiles, hybrid, vinyl, laminate, and Engineered timber flooring.

✅ Industry-Leading Warranties to give you peace of mind.

✅ Expert Advice & In-Store Consultations to help you choose the perfect floor.

✅ Professional Installation Services across Australia.

✅ Price Beat Guarantee – If you find a better price, we’ll beat it!

Hot Tip: If you are unsure what your best option is talk to one of our experts.

 BOOK YOUR IN-STORE CONSULTATION

Frequently Asked Questions 

Got flooring questions? We've answered the most common ones to help you choose the perfect option.

  • How do I decide what flooring to buy?

    Choosing flooring is all about finding the perfect balance between style, function, and budget. Here’s how to make the best choice:

    • Aesthetics: Do you love the warmth of timber, the sleek look of tiles, or the cushioned feel of vinyl? Choose what makes your heart (and feet) happy!

    • Lifestyle: If you have pets, kids, or a clumsy streak, durable and water-resistant options like hybrid or vinyl flooring or water resistant laminate might be your best bet.

    • Existing Décor: Make sure your flooring complements your furniture, wall colours, and overall home vibe.

    • Comfort: If you’re on your feet all day, a softer surface like vinyl might be preferable to hard tiles.

    Need expert advice? Our Beaumont Tiles specialists are always here to help!

  • How do I calculate how many boxes of flooring I need? 

    Math may not be everyone’s favourite subject, but we promise it’s simple:

    1. Measure Your Space: Multiply the length and width of your room to get the total square metres.

    1. Add Extra for Offcuts: Factor in at least 10% extra to account for trimming and mistakes.

    1. Check Box Coverage: Each flooring type comes in boxes with different coverage amounts. Divide your total area by the square metre coverage of one box to see how many you’ll need.

    Feeling overwhelmed? Don’t worry—we can handle the calculations for you! Plus, we offer a full refund on any unopened boxes, so you won’t be stuck with extra flooring.

  • How many different types of flooring should be in a house?

    Less is more! To keep your home looking stylish and cohesive:

    • Stick to a maximum of two flooring types. Too many materials can make your space feel chaotic and impact resale value.

    • Create a seamless flow. Try to use the same flooring in open-plan spaces and keep transitions smooth between rooms.

    If you need help choosing the right combination, our team at Beaumont Tiles can guide you to the perfect flooring harmony!

  • How do I choose wood flooring?

    If you’re after that natural timber aesthetic, you have a few choices:

    • Engineered Timber Flooring: A real timber veneer over a plywood base. Looks like solid timber but with added stability and a lower price tag.

    • Laminate Flooring: A high-resolution timber-look print over a high density fibre core. Super durable, budget-friendly, and scratch-resistant.

    Need more guidance? Our range of timber-look and real wood flooring at Beaumont Tiles covers every budget and style!

  • What is the best type of flooring for high-traffic areas?

    If your floors are going to face a stampede of kids, pets, or high heels, here are your best bets:

    • Tiles: The ultimate in durability—scratch-resistant, water-proof, and easy to clean. Perfect for entryways, kitchens, and hallways.

    • Hybrid Flooring and Vinyl: A champion of water resistance and scratch durability, making it great for family homes and busy spaces.

    • Laminate Flooring: Hard-wearing, cost-effective, and built to handle heavy foot traffic with ease.

    Still unsure? We can help you find the perfect hard-wearing flooring solution for your home!

  • Which flooring options typically have higher VOC emissions that I should be careful of?

    You might have heard the term 'VOC' before, especially when talking about home renovations. It stands for 'Volatile Organic Compounds.' Think of them as chemicals that can be released as gases from certain building materials, like some flooring adhesives and finishes.

    While some products can release these VOCs and potentially affect indoor air quality, we've carefully selected our flooring options with your health and comfort in mind. That's why we carry a range of low-VOC products.

    Low VOC:

    Hybrid – Ava, Charm, Evo  

    Laminate – Brooklyn, Harmony, Mystic

    Luxury Vinyl – Tranquil

    Engineered Timber – Australis, Enchant, Jewel

    VOC Free

    Tiles – Tiles are naturally VOC-free due to their composition and manufacturing process.

    Choosing low-VOC flooring for your renovation is a smart move. It means you'll be creating a healthier environment in your home, especially important if you have children, pets, or anyone with sensitivities. You'll avoid that 'new product' chemical smell that some flooring can have, and you can breathe easier knowing you're making a responsible choice!

  • Can Engineered Timber flooring be refinished?

    Yes, your engineered timber flooring can be refinished. This is a job for the professionals because if sanding is needed, it needs to be super light to remove just the top lacquer coating, leaving the hardwood layer untouched. You don’t want to change the colour of your floor by removing the original staining colour. 

    A recoating lacquer such as Treffet lacquer will need to be applied to complete the refinishing.

EXPLORE ALL HARD FLOORING

Find Your Hard Flooring In-Store

Put on your shopping shoes and hit up those stores that have the goods. Luxury Vinyl, Laminate, Hybrid and Engineered Timber are avialable in selected stores, so it's time to get floored and take your home décor game to the next level!