What is the better flooring option for the kitchen/dining room – timber or vinyl? We are a family of five, including three teenagers.

Both timber and vinyl have their merits, and both can do the hard yards in the kitchen. Depending on the finish you choose, there's probably more upkeep with a timber floor. Vinyl is softer underfoot, but you'll probably have to replace it sooner than you would a timber floor. Being a recent convert to timber flooring myself, I am thrilled at how well timber works in the kitchen and the clean-up is not too bad. If you can't decide, there's always the option of vinyl printed with a timber pattern. Forbo Flooring Systems manufactures amazingly ‘real' plank-patterned vinyl. Have a look at the website – you can even order a sample. Forbo Flooring Systems; 1800 224 471.