Niquel

Most balcony floors fail on one of two counts, sun or blown rain, and a condominium balcony gets both in the same week. Niquel is rated for outdoor use and takes them. The grey is cool rather than warm, so it sits quietly next to the aluminium railings fitted to almost every new launch unit. Matt texture keeps grip when the floor is wet and throws no glare back into the living room. There are only 3 random faces, so on anything larger than about eight square metres, open several boxes and mix before laying. Five planks of 200 x 1200 mm per box, 1.20 m2, 25 kg.

• Will Niquel swell in a humid climate?

  No. Niquel is glazed ceramic with 6 to 8 percent water absorption, so humid months do not make it swell, cup or warp the way timber and laminate can.

• How many boxes of Niquel for a 3 x 3 m bedroom?

  A 3 x 3 m room is 9 m². With 10 percent extra for cutting, that is 9 boxes, since each box of 5 planks (20 x 120 cm) covers 1.20 m² and weighs about 25 kg.

• Can Niquel go on a balcony or porch?

  Yes. Niquel is rated for outdoor use, so covered balconies, porches and walkways can have a wood deck look without the upkeep of real timber.

• How do I clean Niquel?

  Sweep, then mop with a mild floor cleaner. The glazed satin textured face needs no oiling, sanding or polish.