What is the best flooring for cold weather?

It’s no secret that the weather in Scotland isn’t exactly tropical, especially once November hits. The Scottish Highlands, in particular, can get pretty nippy when those North Sea and Atlantic winds hit and heating and electricity bills are sure to rise during late autumn and winter months.

One way to try and cut those down and save a little extra as Christmas approaches is to improve the insulation in your house. One great way of providing insulation (and style) is to get specific with your flooring. When it comes to temperature regulation, not all flooring is created equal. Here are some options.

1. Carpet

A smart choice of flooring for a colder climate is Carpet. Carpet works well for colder weather because it naturally traps warm air within the fibres to create a resistant barrier. Also, using a quality underlay before your carpet is fitted, adds to the heat proofing of the room. We always recommend wool carpets due to their robust and durable qualities. They are also easier to clean than synthetic carpets, are more stain-resistant, and just bring a natural warmth to any home – perfect if you are hosting any festive gatherings.

2. Engineered wood flooring

Engineered wood flooring is made with a series of compressed wooden layers and finished with a layer of solid wood veneer. Made of genuine wood, it brings a natural look for your home to add character to the decor. The way that this flooring is made means that it is a very stable material that isn’t so reactive to temperature and humidity changes in colder climates. Partnered with a good quality underlay for underfloor heating, engineered wood flooring is a great choice for colder climates.

3. Laminate

Laminate mimics the look of traditional Hardwood flooring but is less expensive. When paired with a good quality underlay, it keeps in heat well and is also less affected by heat or moisture. Another benefit of using laminate in a cold climate is that this flooring is easy to clean. Usually cold weather means rain and snow which means it can often adversely affect your floor’s finish.

4. How To Warm Up Your Existing Flooring?

One of the best ways to add warmth to your home without redoing all of your flooring is by simply adding rugs. This simple, yet timeless solution can do a lot to make your space warmer, more inviting and add to the character of the room. To find out more about which rug would best work for you, read our blog here.

At Sharon Leon we have an incredible range of flooring options to help keep your home warm and cosy in the winter. With over 50 years of experience in flooring – and being Highlands-based, we know what it takes to keep a home warm. If you have any further questions or are wondering what is the best solution for you, please contact us or visit our showrooms. Our home flooring consultants are always on hand to advise on the best flooring to suit your home, decor and budget.