A conservatory adds space and character to your home and with the right flooring, you can create an appealing and comfortable room that you’ll enjoy for years to come.
Conservatory flooring can be costly to buy and fit. So, it’s important to choose suitable flooring for your space.
Whether you’re looking to update a worn conservatory floor or design a brand new extension, read on for conservatory flooring ideas, from practical vinyl to rustic hardwood.
What to consider when choosing your conservatory flooring
When it comes to choosing the right flooring, here are our tips on what you should consider:
- What’s your budget?
- How do you utilise your extension?
- Is your conservatory an exit point to the garden, therefore, do you need durable and practical flooring?
- Does your conservatory flooring need to stand up against sun exposure?
- Will you require moisture-resistant flooring?
10 flooring ideas for your conservatory
To make the most of your light-filled space, choose a conservatory floor that complements your room and will withstand extreme temperatures — from scorching summers to frosty winters.
If you’re refreshing a tired space or installing a new conservatory, there are several factors to consider beyond flooring design and style, such as how much natural light your room receives.
Below, we break down ten of the best conservatory flooring options and highlight what you should keep in mind.
1. Water-resistant vinyl
Vinyl flooring for your conservatory can have a tasteful appeal if you choose the right design.
It is easy to clean and maintain and is water-resistant and less prone to fading when exposed to sunlight, making it an excellent choice for conservatories, while being cost-effective and hard-wearing.
Investing in luxury vinyl with UV resistance ensures long-lasting appeal, as lower-cost vinyl may fade over time.
2. Luxury hardwood
For a classic and natural look, hardwood flooring is a stylish choice for your conservatory.
We recommend engineered wood, as it’s more resistant to temperature changes than solid wood, which can lift, swell and warp when conditions fluctuate.
When installing, keep in mind that the click-and-lock design of engineered wood requires precise measurements. To achieve a seamless finish, getting the measurements spot-on is integral.
However, be aware that sun exposure can cause fading over time. Moisture can also lead to swelling between the seams, potentially damaging the floor.
To prevent such issues, it’s important to fix any conservatory leaks before installation.
3. Laminate with a wood effect
In some cases, laminate flooring can be difficult to install in a conservatory and installation costs can add up. However, when done correctly, it’s a worthwhile investment.
It’s a cost-effective, low-maintenance solution, with high-quality options offering water resistance and the ability to withstand temperature fluctuations.
If you’re aiming for a rustic or contemporary style, wood-effect laminate provides the appearance of natural wood while being more resistant to extreme temperatures and less prone to fading from direct sunlight.
4. Eco-friendly cork
Cork flooring is a great environmentally conscious choice. It’s a renewable material that provides excellent insulation and reduces noise, making your conservatory feel warm in winter and cool in summer.
While cork is naturally water-resistant, it is essential to seal it properly to prevent water damage. Regular sealing ensures longevity and keeps your flooring looking pristine.
5. Durable stone and tile
For a sleek look, stone and tile flooring options like marble, ceramic, porcelain and terracotta offer durability and timeless appeal. They are easy to clean but may require underfloor heating to prevent cold surfaces in winter.
To enhance safety, especially in high-traffic areas, be sure to choose non-slip finishes.
6. Cosy carpet
Soft carpet in a conservatory is less common than vinyl or laminate. However, it’s ideal if you’re looking to create comfort and warmth and is also arguably easier to install in comparison to other flooring types.
To add a statement, bright colours work well in a conservatory due to the amount of light. But, it’s worth keeping in mind that carpet can make your sunny garden room feel even hotter in the summer.
7. Bamboo flooring
For an eco-friendly alternative to hardwood, bamboo flooring brings a natural and stylish feel to your conservatory while also being strong and water-resistant.
As it’s a fast-growing and sustainable material, it’s an excellent choice for those seeking an environmentally friendly flooring option. To ensure it keeps looking its best, regular sweeping and occasional polishing will be necessary.
8. Patterned tiles
Hardwearing floor tiles are perfect for conservatories, as they’re long-lasting and easy to clean. Adding patterned tiles can help you add character and style to your space, with many options and colours to choose from.
If your conservatory is a high foot traffic area, choosing non-scratch tiles is best and will offer greater resistance to wear and tear.
If you’re installing them yourself, keep in mind that complex patterns may make the installation process more tedious.
9. Add a rug
A stylish rug will complement carpet, laminate and vinyl flooring in your conservatory — providing you invest in the right one.
If you have a lot of open space, a rug works best as a focal point and when used as a centrepiece, it can reinvigorate old flooring.
Affordable rugs for conservatories are often UV-resistant and quick to clean. Plus, you can easily replace a well-used rug once wear and tear starts to show.
10. Polished concrete
For a sleek, modern and minimalist design, polished concrete is great in your conservatory.
Lasting for decades, polished concrete floors can retain heat and can be paired with underfloor heating to keep your space warm. It does require sealing, but it’s a low-maintenance surface that is available in a range of colour finishes.
Tips to maintain your conservatory flooring
No matter what conservatory flooring you choose, you want it to keep looking its best. To help you do so, here are some of our general care tips for each:
- Vinyl and laminate – Sweep or hoover regularly to remove dirt and debris. Use a damp (but not soaking) mop with a gentle cleaner to prevent water damage.
- Hardwood and bamboo – We recommend using a damp cloth over a wet mop for cleaning. Apply wood-friendly polish occasionally to maintain shine.
- Stone and tile – Clean with a pH-neutral cleaner to prevent damage. Grout lines may need occasional resealing to prevent staining.
- Carpet and rugs – Hoover frequently and treat spills immediately. For deep cleaning, consider steam cleaning or a professional service.
- Cork flooring – To prevent water damage, wipe up spills quickly. Use a cork-friendly sealant to maintain its durability.
- Polished concrete – Re-apply a sealant periodically to protect against stains and moisture absorption. You should sweep and mop with a mild detergent only.
Add extra warmth with underfloor heating
Before making your final decision on which flooring type suits best, you may want to consider conservatory underfloor heating.
While it’s not expected that you’ll lose heat through a conservatory floor, underfloor heating might provide that all-important boost of heat you need when the weather turns colder.
Design your dream conservatory
IReady to transform your home? Whether you’re upgrading your flooring or planning a brand-new conservatory, our friendly team is here to help.
Explore our range of conservatories through our quote builder and discover how you can create a stylish, comfortable space that lasts for years.
