Plank flooring just means the boards are long and rectangular—basically like floorboards. The main difference is in the format. While some floors come in sheets (like sheet vinyl) or tiles (like square laminate), plank flooring mimics traditional hardwood planks. This gives your space a clean, seamless look that flows nicely from room to room. You’ll find plank styles in hybrid, vinyl, laminate, and timber options. The beauty of it is that it works in almost any setting—coastal homes, city apartments, rentals, renos, and more. Plank flooring is also easier to install and more forgiving visually than smaller formats like herringbone or tile. It hides joins better and helps make smaller rooms feel longer. It’s simple, stylish, and just works.

The biggest benefit is how good it looks. Plank floors have that classic, high-end feel—like real timber boards—but without the maintenance and cost. They also help visually stretch a room, making it feel more open. If you run the planks lengthwise with the longest wall, you’ll get a nice sense of space and flow. Plank flooring is also super versatile. It works with pretty much any design style—Hamptons, industrial, modern, Scandi, you name it. Most plank options today (especially hybrid and vinyl) are waterproof and scratch-resistant, which is a game changer for kitchens, living areas, or anywhere with pets and kids. Add in easy installation, and you’ve got a floor that looks amazing, doesn’t break the bank, and holds up to real life.

Yep—most plank floors are made to be DIY-friendly. Hybrid, laminate, and vinyl planks usually come with a click-lock system, so you don’t need nails, glue, or special tools. Just make sure the subfloor’s flat and clean, let the planks acclimatise, and follow the layout plan. If you’re doing one or two rooms, it’s totally doable over a weekend. Engineered timber planks can also be installed as floating floors, but you’ll want to take a bit more care—or bring in a pro if the layout’s tricky. The only type that might be tougher is solid timber plank, which needs sanding, finishing, and a more precise install. But for most modern plank floors, the DIY route is a great way to save money and get the job done fast.

Right now, it’s all about wide plank flooring with natural or muted finishes. Think light oaks, weathered greys, warm neutrals, and soft matte textures. These tones work well in open spaces and give a relaxed, clean look. People love that coastal or Scandi vibe, and plank flooring delivers it perfectly. If you’re going for something more dramatic, darker walnut or smoked charcoal planks are still in—but paired with light walls and warm accents. Textured finishes (like embossed grain or brushed surfaces) are also big, since they give more of a real-wood feel. Whether you’re styling a new build or revamping an older space, plank flooring has the range and the colour options to fit whatever look you’re after.

Definitely. Plank flooring—especially in hybrid or vinyl—is built to handle day-to-day life. It’s scratch-resistant, waterproof, and doesn’t dent easily, so it’s a solid choice if you’ve got pets, kids, or heavy foot traffic. Maintenance is easy too. Sweep it regularly, mop it with a damp cloth, and avoid harsh chemicals or steam mops. Laminate planks are also low-maintenance, just a bit less forgiving with moisture. Engineered timber planks are a little more delicate, but still way easier than solid timber. You don’t need to worry about sanding or polishing unless it’s a major refresh. If you want that “floor looks great but I barely have to do anything” vibe, plank flooring’s a strong pick. And if you keep it clean and use floor protectors under furniture, it’ll last you ages.