Yes we are replacing treated pine with a hardwood this time but I just want to make the right choice. Still it's nice to hear you are happy with it . Anything will be a big improvement I do like the idea of an Australian hardwood that is from sustainable sources though . I gather it's been down a few yrs and you haven't experienced the shrinkage someone else complained of ? Thanks for the feedback . This site is great :)

A great alternative to timber, especially if your budget is tight. Definitely depends on the quality of the vinyl planking you select but generally it is quite hard wearing and easy to keep clean. One of the disadvantages I see is that most options have a grain pattern 'engraved' into the planking which can make it a bit harder to keep clean than conventional smooth-sanded timber floors, for example. Another advantage is that vinyl planking can be used in wet areas so there is the option to use the same flooring throughout the entire house if desired. http://www.realtor.com/advice/pros-cons-vinyl-flooring/ http://www.homeflooringpros.com/blog-guides/pros-and-cons-of-laminate-flooring-vs-hardwood-and-vinyl-flooring/

If you're going over concrete laminate flooring can be cold under foot in winter. Both will require care and maintenance and both will mark if it's not looked after.

I have two dogs and they both live and play inside. At one stage we had three. Our floors look no more worn than the day I oiled then 6 years ago. We will be selling in around a year and at that time I may rotary with a white pad (never need to sand again)but really there is no need. After 30 years of fixing timber issues, it breaks my heart to see such a beautiful substance treated with a toxic plastic bag. This is our puppy the other day with a sore foot.