A flooring solution for getting the timber look in wet areas

In recent years, the NZ Building Code has undergone significant changes, particularly in relation to E3/AS1 guidelines governing the use of wood flooring in wet areas. These changes have far-reaching implications for homeowners and architectural specifiers. 

Understanding the E3/AS1 changes

The E3/AS1 regulation signifies a pivotal shift in the way wood flooring is used in wet areas within New Zealand homes. In essence, traditional timber flooring is no longer permissible in areas like kitchens, laundries, and bathrooms due to its inherent lack of waterproof properties. 

This rule change has left homeowners and specifiers in search of alternative flooring solutions that can offer both the aesthetic appeal of timber and the durability required for wet areas.

Introducing Corepel flooring: the ultimate timber look-alike

Corepel flooring, available through Parks Flooring, has emerged as an exceptional choice to address the challenges posed by the E3/AS1 guidelines. This innovative product brings the timeless elegance of timber into wet areas while surpassing the stringent requirements set by the NZ Building Code.

Parks Flooring Commercial Manager David Hong says this newly launched product means homeowners can get the look of timber, but without the waterproofing issues. 

"Timber flooring is no longer allowed to go into the kitchen, lobby, bathroom, toilet or laundry areas, because it’s not waterproof. To solve this issue, Parks Flooring brought in Corepel flooring which is more durable and meets the Building Code and council regulations."

Corepel flooring is engineered to meet the E3/AS1 regulations and offers a range of features and benefits that make it a preferred choice:

1. Durability beyond compare

Corepel flooring boasts at least five times the strength of traditional timber flooring, as well as hybrid flooring or vinyl alternatives. It is designed to withstand the rigours of daily life, ensuring it remains in pristine condition even in high-traffic areas.

2. Eco-friendly composition

Corepel flooring incorporates 50% natural wood fibres, sourced from Swiss pinewood, into its composition. This environmentally conscious approach enhances its sustainability and appeals to eco-conscious homeowners and specifiers.

3. Timber-look aesthetic

Corepel flooring captures the authentic beauty of timber. It comes in a variety of colours, including natural oak, white oak, brown oak, light grey, normal grey, and dark grey, allowing homeowners and specifiers to choose the perfect timber-like finish to match their design vision.

4. Thinner but stronger 

While Corepel flooring is slightly thinner than traditional timber, with an 8mm thickness, it excels in strength and resilience. The product features a 100% locking system with a compliant 5G drop-lock system, making it a breeze to install for DIY enthusiasts.

5. Versatility unleashed

Unlike some flooring options that are restricted to specific areas of the house, Corepel's timber-look waterproof flooring can be used virtually anywhere, except for the garage. This versatility ensures homeowners and specifiers have an array of design possibilities at their disposal.

6. Green Star Certified:

Corepel flooring has earned the prestigious Green Star certificate of compliance, making it an ideal choice for sustainable projects. Its commitment to sustainability aligns with the growing demand for eco-friendly building materials in modern construction.

Parks Flooring’s Corepel flooring is an ideal solution to the changing landscape of flooring regulations in New Zealand. It offers a timber-like aesthetic, unmatched durability, and eco-friendliness, all while complying with the stringent E3/AS1 guidelines. Whether you're a homeowner seeking an elegant flooring solution or an architectural specifier aiming to meet the latest Building Code requirements, Corepelt ticks all the boxes for style, strength, and sustainability.

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