Natural flooring in a conservatory - Good idea or Bad?

[Adrian_Bristol]

Hi,

I am in the process of having a conservatory built and am very keen on having a coir/seagrass floor fitted on completion.

I have had some advice that seagrass would not be the best due to shrinkage and am aware that this is probably the biggest hurdle when considering a natural floor. Also that the specialist underlay is very important.

Has anyone fitted this type of flooring (coir etc) in a conservatory or have any comments that will help when making the decision?

Thanks in advance, Neil

 

[WoodYouLike]

With all natural flooring, the products needs to adjust to the in house climate. Before installing, leave it - under normal conditions - for 3 -4 days in the room you want lay it in.

In conservatories the temperature can change very quickly from low to high, but as long as you keep the air humidity as stable as possible, it shouldn't react extremely. Ventilation is also a thing to be aware of, open a window or door on a regular base ('t only needs 15 - 20 minutes, but will keep the room 'healthy').

Hope this helps

 

[flooringman]

This type of flooring is probably best left to a professional. It should be installed using a double stick method i.e. the underlay (eg Durafit) is stuck to the floor and the sisal/seagrass is stuck to the underlay.

As WYL says it is important to acclimatise the product and it will alter colour in strong sunlight (but then most things do).

If you fancy having a bash, say and I will give you the basics.

 

[Adrian_Bristol]

Thanks for this - I think that we are going for Sisal or Coir as they appear to be the most hardwearing of the natural flooring available.

In terms of the discoloration: How severe can this be (I appreciate it depends on the sun we get)?

In terms of the wear and tear, how long can we expect the floor to last (I appreciate again this depends on footfall and use) considering we will be using the conservatory as a dining room and lounge area.

My main concern is the floor looking like a doormat after 6 months!!!

Any further advice greatly appreciated.

 

[WoodYouLike]

T

My main concern is the floor looking like a doormat after 6 months!!!

Wouldn't think os, IF you read the cleaning/maintaining instructions well and use the specified materials for it (presuming the product comes fro a company that does supply you with these instructions.)

 

[flooringman]

Sisal is very hard wearing(more so than coir). We've had it on our stairs for three years and it looks as good as new. (Must stop climbing up the bannister!!)

You can get the carpet pre treated with a stain protector(about £3/sq. mtr. but check) by some companies-might be worth considering.