Choosing flooring is easier when you begin with the room, the way it will be used and the finish you want—then compare product specifications. This guide explains how to shortlist hybrid, laminate, engineered timber and herringbone flooring for an Australian home.
Start with the room
List every area included in the project and note entrances, direct sunlight, pets, children, rolling furniture and the likelihood of spills. Bathrooms, laundries and other wet areas require particular care: never assume a product is suitable solely because a plank or core is described as waterproof.
Choose the flooring character
Hybrid flooring
A practical resilient option with timber-look visuals and click installation. Compare the exact core, surface, acoustic system and wet-area limitations of each range.
Laminate flooring
A timber-look surface valued for visual choice and wear performance. Check whether the selected range is standard, water-resistant or waterproof-rated and follow its spill and maintenance conditions.
Engineered timber flooring
Uses a real timber surface over a constructed base, giving natural variation in grain and colour. Confirm the timber species, surface finish, installation method and maintenance expectations.
Herringbone flooring
A directional pattern that adds architectural character. It requires more detailed set-out, cutting and installation planning than straight planks.
Specifications worth comparing
- Room and moisture exposure: identify kitchens, entries, living areas and any spill-prone zones.
- Subfloor: confirm flatness, dryness, cleanliness and the installation system required.
- Product construction: compare total thickness, surface or wear layer, edge profile and integrated underlay where applicable.
- Pack coverage: calculate by square metres per box and allow an appropriate cutting margin.
- Warranty: compare residential and commercial terms, exclusions and installation conditions.
Measure and allow for cuts
Measure the net floor area, then allow for cutting and layout. Ten per cent is a useful starting point for many straight-plank projects, while herringbone, irregular rooms and detailed layouts can require more. Your installer should confirm the final allowance.
Plan the complete installation
Include underlay where required, trims, transitions, scotia or quad and stair details. Colour-matched accessories should be confirmed against the chosen flooring rather than selected by colour name alone.
Common flooring questions
How much extra flooring should I allow?
Ten per cent is a practical starting allowance for many straight-plank rooms. Herringbone patterns, irregular spaces and detailed layouts may require more, so the installer should confirm the final quantity before ordering.
Can flooring be used in bathrooms or laundries?
Only where the exact product and manufacturer instructions approve the intended area. A waterproof-rated plank or core is not a substitute for the required waterproofing system.
Can I arrange a flooring sample?
Contact Nextyl to arrange showroom collection or ask about sample delivery. Sample availability and any delivery cost will be confirmed before proceeding.
Important: Product specifications, installation requirements and warranty terms vary by range. Always check the individual Nextyl product page and the applicable manufacturer documentation before purchasing or installing.
Ready to plan your floor?
Explore Nextyl flooring, calculate the boxes required on your selected product page and submit one Request a Quote. We’ll confirm the colour, final box quantity, accessories and delivery details.
Explore flooring & request a quoteNo payment is required when you submit a flooring quote.