Expert Tips for Comparing Wood Flooring Samples and Choosing the Right Look

With more than 35 years of experience supplying premium timber floors to homeowners, interior designers and architects, family-run Bristol business Chaunceys Timber Flooring understands how important it is to get the choice right.

Managing Director Ian Tomlinson believes the decision should never be rushed. “A floor sets the tone for the entire home. It needs to be practical, durable and in tune with the character of the space,” he explains. “The best way to make the right choice is to spend time with samples and see how they work in the context of your own interiors.”

Ian’s Six Tips for Comparing Engineered Wood Flooring Samples

1. Check the Top Layer Thickness

The wear layer determines durability. Thicker oak layers can be sanded and refinished, extending the floor’s life. Thinner layers, often found in lower-quality boards, limit longevity and reduce future maintenance options.

2.Examine Base Material Quality

A stable, multi-ply base resists warping and performs well, even with environmental changes. High-quality boards tend to use birch, which maintains flatness and resists moisture. Avoid floors with softer, less reliable ply that can swell or warp.

3.Consider Plank Length and Width

Always check the full range of dimensions available for each sample to ensure a fair comparison. Board size greatly affects how a room feels. Longer planks create a seamless flow and reduce visible joins, while wider boards can make spaces feel larger and more open.

4.Test Flatness and Fit

Place samples on a flat surface to check for warping or uneven edges. High-quality boards sit flat and straight, indicating good manufacturing standards. This step also indicates how the floor will behave with underfloor heating. If it's arching across the width, this is a sign that the plank is poorly constructed and will not create a stable, dependable floor.

5.Consider Finish and Wood Grain

Surface finish affects both durability and character. Different oil colours, brushed textures and sheen levels each create a different mood. View samples in your own space and lighting to see how the tone and grain complement walls, furniture and textiles.

6.Observe Natural Variation

Wood is a natural material, and every plank is unique. Examine colour variation, knots, and grain across several samples, and ask your supplier for images of the flooring in completed projects to understand the range you’re likely to see once installed. This avoids surprises and helps the floor harmonise with your interior vision.

Ian’s Practical Interior Advice

Take samples home and observe them at different times of day. Natural and artificial light can dramatically change the look of a floor. Lighter tones brighten smaller rooms, while darker floors can add depth and grounding to larger spaces.

While budget-friendly flooring may be tempting, the difference in quality is noticeable. Cheaper boards often have shorter lengths, thinner wear layers and lower-quality materials. Premium flooring, made with long, wide planks from sustainably sourced European oak, offers durability, elegance and long-term appeal, making it a worthwhile investment.