Wood Flooring in Wet Areas: A Stylish and Practical Choice
Is wood flooring suitable for wet areas like kitchens and bathrooms?
It's possible to enjoy the beauty of wood even in moisture-prone environments.
Why Choose Wood Flooring for Wet Areas?
Natural Beauty and Warmth: Wood flooring brings a timeless elegance and warmth to any space, creating a cozy and inviting atmosphere.
Durability: High-quality engineered wood flooring, like Marchand's, is designed to withstand moisture, humidity, and heavy foot traffic.
Sustainability: Engineered wood flooring is an environmentally friendly choice, using fewer natural resources and reducing waste.
Marchand: The Superior Choice for Wet Area Flooring
Marchand offers a range of premium engineered wood flooring options that are perfect for kitchens, powder rooms & laundries. Our products are engineered to withstand the challenges of moisture and humidity, while maintaining their stunning appearance. Why are we different? The answer lies in the cross threading of our 14mm plywood, our clever construction allows for no moisture to seep through the floor boards.
Key Factors for Success:
Engineered Wood Flooring: Our type of flooring is more stable and resistant to moisture damage than solid wood.
Water-Based Polyurethane Finishes: Our finishes provide a durable protective layer, shielding your floors from water and spills. We apply 9 layers of lacquer; the most in the NZ market.
Proper Installation: Adhering to building code regulations and industry best practices is crucial for long-lasting performance.
Guidelines for Installing Wood Flooring in Wet Areas
Ensuring Longevity and Performance
When considering wood flooring for wet areas like kitchens and bathrooms, it's crucial to adhere to specific guidelines and regulations to ensure its longevity and performance. In New Zealand, the E3/AS1 document provides essential guidance on building regulations for wood flooring in wet environments.
Key General Considerations for Wet Areas:
Substrate Compliance: Ensure the substrate meets the requirements of the NZ Building Code.
Proper Installation: Install the flooring correctly, avoiding large gaps between planks.
Humidity Control: Monitor and control humidity levels according to care instructions.
Perimeter Sealing: Seal the perimeter of the flooring with waterproof silicone.
Joint Sealing: Seal joints between planks with Unika Clic-seal or waterproof PVA glue.
Prompt Cleanup: Wipe up spills and surface water within one hour to prevent damage.
E3 Regulations for Wood Flooring in Wet Areas
In 2021, significant changes were made to the Building Code, impacting the use of wood flooring in wet areas.
Key E3 Regulation Considerations:
Moisture Protection: All wood surfaces must have moisture-protective sealing and finishing (Marchand has the most in the NZ market, protecting you long term)
Moisture-Resistant Substrate: The substrate and underlayment used beneath the flooring must be moisture-resistant.
Adherence to Installation Practices: Follow proper installation practices to meet E3 regulations.
Ventilation: Maintain adequate ventilation.
Regular Maintenance: Regularly maintain the wood flooring.
By carefully following these guidelines and regulations, you can confidently install wood flooring in kitchens, powder rooms & laundry areas, enjoying its beauty and durability for years to come.
Contact the Marchand team today to learn more about our range of high-quality wood flooring products and to get expert advice on your specific project.