Beautiful Floors Start Here
Engineered timber, hybrid, vinyl and laminate: quality flooring for every room, budget and lifestyle, with expert help from start to stunning finish.
In a Hurry? Here's the Short Version
Compare below, or browse the full range and we'll help you match the floor to your space, budget and application.
| Feature | Engineered Timber | Hybrid | Vinyl | Laminate |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| What it is | Real Timber veneer with multiple plywood core giving it greater stability than solid timber​ | Rigid Stone and Polymer Core with integrated underlay and protective wear layer on top​ | Flexible PVC based core with a décor layer and protective wear layer​ | High density Fiberboard core with realistic décor film to imitate real wood. ​ |
| Style & feel | ★★★★★ Natural & premium |
★★★★ Clean & modern |
★★★ Soft & quiet |
★★★★ Lifelike & detailed |
| Durability | ★★★★ | ★★★★ | ★★★★ | ★★★★ |
| Water resistance | ★★ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ | ★★ |
| Cleaning & maintenance | Medium | Low | Low | Low |
| Lifespan | 25–40 yrs | 15–25 yrs | 10–20 yrs | 10–20 yrs |
| Cost | $$$ | $$–$$$ | $–$$ | $ |
Get to Know the Basics
Short, plain-language explainers for the terms that matter when you're choosing a floor.
Subfloor Suitability
Subfloor is the base layer on which you will lay your new flooring. The type and condition of your subfloor plays an important role in the performance of your new flooring.
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All flooring types require a subfloor that is smooth, dry, and sufficiently level. Always check the installation guide for your chosen product to check the tolerance it can withstand and ensure it is suitable for your subfloor.​ Different flooring types can be installed over different subfloors.​
- Laminate Flooring can be installed over:
- - Concrete
- - Fibre cement sheeting​
- - Tiles​
- - Particle board​
- - Solid timber​
- Hybrid & Engineered Timber can be installed over:
- - Concrete​
- - Fibre cement sheeting​
- - Tiles​
- Vinyl can be installer over:
- - Concrete​
- - Tiles​
- - Particle board​
Wear Layer & Durability
Wear layer is measured differently depending on the flooring type​.
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- Hybrid & Vinyl: The wear layer is a transparent protective coating that helps resist scratches, scuffs & everyday wear. It is typically measured in millimetres (mm)​.
- Laminate: Laminate flooring has a clear melamine resin wear layer. Durability is typically indicated by its AC Rating (Abrasion Class), with higher ratings providing greater wear resistance.​
- Engineered timber: The wear layer is the real timber veneer on the surface. The thickness of this layer determines how many times the floor may be sanded and refinished during its life.​
Underfoot Comfort & Warmth
How a floor feels to walk on, and how warm or cool it stays.
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- Timber & hybrid: naturally warmer underfoot and softer to stand on for long periods than harder surfaces
- Laminate: a firmer feel, though a good underlay adds cushioning and warmth
- Vinyl: feels soft and quiet underfoot without the need for underlay
Installation Methods
How a floor gets laid, and what that means for cost and timeline.
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- Floating: Used for laminate, hybrid and many engineered timber floors. Planks lock together and are not fixed directly to the subfloor, allowing the floor to expand and contract naturally. Expansion gaps are typically covered with skirting boards or trims​
- Stick-down: Used with vinyl and engineered timber. Adhered directly to floor. For best results we advise this kind of installation be carried out by a professional installer​
Timber Flooring
Natural warmth, built to last. Engineered timber brings authentic grain and character to living spaces, delivering a floor that feels grounded and effortlessly liveable.
Hybrid Flooring
Built for busy family life. Hard-wearing hybrid flooring handles kids and pets without missing a beat, delivering a floor that feels grounded and effortlessly liveable.
Vinyl Flooring
Style that stretches further. Vinyl is the easy, budget-friendly choice for busy homes and rentals, simple to install and simple to live with.
Laminate Flooring
Style that stretches further. Hard-wearing laminate brings a timber look to high-traffic rooms, simple to install and simple to live with.
How Much Will You Need?
Work out your m² and number of boxes, then carry the result straight into your sample order.
Flooring FAQs
Common questions about buying, installing and caring for your new floor.
-
What types of flooring does National Tiles stock?
We stock a curated range including engineered timber, hybrid, vinyl and laminate, available in a variety of formats, colours and finishes to suit any room. -
Can new flooring be installed over my existing floor?
In many cases, yes: hybrid, vinyl and laminate can often be laid over a suitable existing hard floor. Suitability depends on your subfloor condition, so it's worth confirming against the specific product's installation guide. -
Does my flooring need underlay?
Laminate and most floating engineered timber floors require an underlay during installation. Hybrid flooring includes a built-in acoustic underlay but requires a moisture barrier (black plastic) to help protect against moisture from the subfloor.​ -
How do I clean and maintain my new floor?
A regular sweep or vacuum plus a damp (not wet) mop is usually all you need. Avoid steam mops and harsh chemical cleaners, which can damage the surface finish over time. For detailed care and maintenance instructions refer to the product’s catalogue​. -
Is flooring suitable for homes with pets?
Yes. Hybrid and laminate handle claws and everyday wear well thanks to their protective wear layer. Timber can be scratched by large pets over time so consider a rug in higher traffic zones or switching to a more pet friendly floor type if you have larger or more active pets. -
What's the difference between hybrid and laminate flooring?
Hybrid flooring offers a rigid, water-resistant construction for durability and everyday practicality. Laminate flooring delivers an authentic timber appearance, excellent durability, and great value, making it a popular choice for busy homes​. -
Do you offer a trade discount on flooring?
Yes. Tradespeople and commercial project managers can register for a trade account with National Tiles to access exclusive trade pricing across our flooring range.
Ready to get started?
We offer matching stair nosings and flooring accessories to complete your project. Visit your nearest National Tiles store for a complete flooring solution.
Proud Members of the Australian Timber Flooring Association
We are proud members of the Australian Timber Flooring Association (ATFA). Our membership reflects our commitment to delivering quality timber flooring products while upholding the highest standards of craftsmanship, safety, and sustainability.
As an ATFA member, we stay at the forefront of industry best practices, ensuring our products and advice align with recognised Australian standards to give our customers confidence in every project.