Brown Paper Flooring: A Comprehensive 4-Year Durability Review & DIY Guide
Our journey into the world of budget-friendly, DIY flooring began over four years ago, and it quickly became one of the most talked-about projects on An Oregon Cottage. What started as an experiment to replace a “disgusting carpet” in our daughter’s room with an affordable, unique alternative has blossomed into a viral sensation. Our initial tutorial, the original brown paper flooring video, captured the imagination of countless DIY enthusiasts and sparked a wave of similar projects across the globe. The sheer volume of inquiries and enthusiasm led us to create a comprehensive FAQ page dedicated to brown paper flooring techniques, addressing everything from preparation to sealing.
Yet, one question consistently stands out: “How does it truly hold up over time?” Four years is a significant test for any flooring, let alone one made from craft paper. This pressing question, coupled with many others, motivated us to produce this follow-up. We wanted to offer an authentic, long-term perspective on the durability and overall performance of our brown paper floors, revisiting them to share our honest observations and continued insights.
The Genesis of Our Brown Paper Floor Project
It was more than four years ago when Brian and I embarked on a mission to transform our daughter’s room. The existing carpet was, to put it mildly, an eyesore – stained, worn, and far beyond its prime. We were on a tight budget but refused to compromise on aesthetics or durability. That’s when we stumbled upon the idea of using brown craft paper as a flooring alternative. The concept was intriguing: an affordable, customizable, and seemingly robust solution that could mimic the look of leather or even certain types of natural stone, all while being a fantastic DIY project.
Our chosen canvas was the existing particle board subfloor. After tearing up the old carpet, we meticulously cleaned and prepared the surface, knowing that proper preparation is key to any successful flooring installation. We then painstakingly covered the particle board subfloor with brown craft paper, overlapping sheets, tearing edges for a unique pattern, and sealing them with several coats of a durable, water-based polyurethane. We documented every step, not anticipating the massive impact our video tutorial would have. We initially thought a few thousand people might find it interesting; little did we know, it would reach hundreds of thousands, inspiring a global community of DIYers.
This project wasn’t just about saving money; it was about proving that creative, unconventional materials could yield stunning and long-lasting results. The initial installation was straightforward but required patience, allowing each layer of glue and sealer to dry thoroughly. The finished product immediately impressed us with its unique character and surprising resilience, laying the groundwork for what would become one of AOC’s most popular features.
Four Years Later: A Deep Dive into Durability and Wear
Now, with four years of daily life having unfolded on our brown paper floors, we have a wealth of information regarding their long-term performance. From everyday foot traffic to spills and sunlight exposure, these floors have seen it all. Our follow-up video and this detailed review aim to provide a transparent look at how this DIY alternative has truly stood the test of time.
High-Traffic Areas: How Do They Hold Up?
One of the primary concerns for any flooring is its ability to withstand high-traffic zones. In our daughter’s room, areas directly in front of the door, around the bed, and near the desk naturally see more footfall. We are pleased to report that the brown paper flooring has performed remarkably well in these spots. There’s a slight, subtle sheen difference and a bit more patina in these areas, which is to be expected with any floor that sees consistent use. However, there are no significant signs of tearing, peeling, or excessive wear through the protective layers. The multiple coats of polyurethane we applied have created a robust barrier, protecting the paper underneath from scuffs and abrasions.
The “leathered” effect of the crumpled paper actually helps to camouflage minor imperfections that might be glaringly obvious on a perfectly smooth surface. This unique texture adds to its charm, making it a forgiving choice for active households.
Low-Traffic Areas: Preserving Their Original Luster
In contrast, areas under furniture or along the perimeter of the room, which experience minimal traffic, look almost as good as the day they were installed. The deep, rich tones of the sealed paper have maintained their integrity beautifully, offering a glimpse into the initial beauty of the floor. This consistent appearance in low-traffic zones highlights the effectiveness of the sealing process and the inherent durability of the material when not subjected to constant friction.
The Impact of Area Rugs and Furniture
Area rugs are a common addition to any room, offering comfort, warmth, and stylistic elements. We’ve had several rugs in our daughter’s room over the past four years. While they protect the floor beneath, it’s important to note their effects. When a rug is eventually moved, you might observe a slight difference in appearance between the covered and uncovered areas. This is primarily due to sun fading (discussed next) and the natural aging of the exposed floor versus the protected parts.
As for furniture, heavy pieces can leave indentations, much like they would on wood or laminate flooring. We recommend using furniture pads under legs to distribute weight and prevent permanent marks. While the paper itself is resilient, concentrated pressure over long periods can compress the layers of paper and sealer. Moving furniture should be done with care, lifting rather than dragging, to avoid scuffing the surface.
Sun Fading: An Unavoidable Reality
Like many flooring types, brown paper floors are susceptible to sun fading, especially in rooms that receive abundant natural light. Over four years, the areas directly exposed to sunlight near windows have lightened slightly compared to the more shaded parts of the room. This isn’t a flaw but rather a natural process of materials reacting to UV exposure. The fading is subtle and generally blends into the overall aesthetic, contributing to the aged, patinated look that many find appealing. For those who prefer to minimize fading, strategically placed curtains or blinds can help control direct sunlight exposure, especially during peak hours.
The “Mistake” We Made: A Cautionary Tale
In our initial enthusiasm and learning curve, we did make one notable mistake during the installation process that has become more apparent over time. In a particular section of the room, near a corner, I rushed the application of the polyurethane sealer. Instead of applying thin, even coats with adequate drying time between them, I applied one coat too thickly, and the subsequent coats were applied before the previous one was fully cured. This resulted in an area where the sealer didn’t fully harden as uniformly as the rest of the floor.
Consequently, this specific spot feels slightly softer underfoot and has shown a bit more wear, almost like the top layer is less bonded. While it hasn’t compromised the integrity of the floor significantly, it serves as a crucial reminder: patience and meticulous application of the sealer are paramount. Each coat of polyurethane must be applied thinly and allowed to cure completely according to the manufacturer’s instructions to ensure maximum durability and a uniformly hard surface. Learning from this, we emphasize that attention to detail, especially during the sealing phase, will greatly contribute to the longevity and performance of your brown paper floor.
Maintenance and Longevity: Keeping Your Paper Floors Beautiful
Maintaining brown paper flooring is surprisingly simple, resembling the care required for laminate or sealed hardwood. Regular cleaning is key to preserving its beauty and durability.
Cleaning Routine
For everyday cleaning, we simply sweep or vacuum the floor to remove dust and debris. For deeper cleaning, a damp mop with a small amount of pH-neutral floor cleaner is sufficient. It’s crucial not to saturate the floor with water, as excessive moisture, especially if it seeps through compromised sealer, can potentially damage the paper underneath. Always wring out your mop thoroughly. Spot cleaning can be done with a damp cloth for spills, which should be wiped up immediately to prevent any staining or penetration of the sealer.
Minor Repairs and Refreshing
One of the advantages of this DIY flooring is the ease of repair for minor scuffs or dull spots. For areas that might appear dull over time due to heavy traffic or cleaning, a light sanding with fine-grit sandpaper followed by an additional coat of the original polyurethane sealer can revitalize the surface. This re-sealing process helps restore the protective barrier and refresh the floor’s appearance. Small tears, though rare if properly sealed, can sometimes be patched with a bit of paper and sealer, blending seamlessly into the distressed aesthetic.
Protecting Your Investment
Prevention is always better than cure. Using felt pads under all furniture legs is highly recommended to prevent scratches and indentations. Placing doormats at entryways will help trap dirt and grit, minimizing the abrasive wear on the floor. While the sealer provides excellent water resistance, it’s not entirely waterproof, so promptly cleaning up spills, especially standing water, is essential for the long-term health of your brown paper floor.
Answering Your Most Asked Questions (FAQs)
Since our original video and comprehensive FAQ page garnered immense interest, we’ve received hundreds of questions. Here, we address the most common inquiries, providing insights directly from our four-year experience with brown paper flooring.
Is it *really* durable?
Yes, absolutely. Our experience over four years has proven that brown paper flooring, when properly installed and sealed with multiple coats of a high-quality water-based polyurethane, is remarkably durable. It stands up well to everyday foot traffic, playful children, and general household activity. While it’s not indestructible, its resilience is comparable to many laminate or engineered wood options, offering a robust surface that can withstand the rigors of daily life.
What about water spills?
The key to handling water spills is the polyurethane sealer. A well-sealed brown paper floor is water-resistant, meaning that spilled liquids will bead up on the surface, giving you time to wipe them away. However, it is not waterproof, especially if the sealer is compromised or if water is left to sit for extended periods. Promptly clean up spills with a dry cloth. For high-moisture areas like bathrooms or kitchens, we recommend even more coats of sealer and extreme care, though it’s generally best suited for bedrooms, living areas, or offices.
Can you clean it like regular flooring?
Yes, cleaning is straightforward. You can sweep or vacuum regularly to remove loose dirt. For deeper cleaning, use a damp mop with a mild, pH-neutral floor cleaner. The crucial part is to avoid excessive water. A well-wrung mop is your best friend. Harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners should be avoided as they can damage the polyurethane finish.
How does it compare to laminate or real wood?
Brown paper flooring offers a unique aesthetic that can mimic certain qualities of both laminate and distressed wood floors. In terms of durability, it holds its own against mid-range laminates, especially when it comes to scratch resistance due to the thick polyurethane layer. It’s significantly more budget-friendly than real wood and often easier for a DIY enthusiast to install. However, real wood can be refinished multiple times, a benefit that paper flooring doesn’t fully share. Laminate usually offers more consistent patterns, whereas paper flooring is inherently unique and organic in its appearance.
What kind of subfloor can it go on?
Brown paper flooring is quite versatile regarding subfloor compatibility. Our project was installed directly over a particle board subfloor, but it can also be applied over plywood, concrete, or even existing linoleum or vinyl as long as the surface is clean, dry, smooth, and structurally sound. Any irregularities in the subfloor will show through the paper, so proper preparation, including patching holes and ensuring a level surface, is essential for the best results.
Is it slippery?
When properly sealed with polyurethane, the surface of brown paper flooring is not excessively slippery. The slight texture from the crumpled paper and the finish of the polyurethane provide adequate grip. However, like any smooth floor, it can become slippery if wet. Choosing a satin or matte finish polyurethane can also help reduce slipperiness compared to a high-gloss finish.
Can you repair damaged sections?
Yes, minor repairs are relatively easy. For small tears or scuffs that go beyond the sealer, you can carefully patch with a piece of matching brown paper, glue it down, and then re-seal the area with a few coats of polyurethane. Because of the inherent “distressed” look of the paper, these patches often blend in seamlessly, enhancing the floor’s unique character rather than detracting from it. For dull or worn spots, a light sanding and re-application of sealer can refresh the entire area.
What about pets?
Pets are a common concern for any flooring. Our experience suggests that brown paper floors can coexist happily with pets, especially if their nails are regularly trimmed. The polyurethane finish is quite tough against scratches, but very sharp claws or prolonged scratching could potentially penetrate the sealer over time. Minor pet accidents are generally not an issue if cleaned promptly, thanks to the water-resistant sealer. For homes with multiple large, active dogs, while it can work, regular maintenance and quick cleanup will be essential.
What kind of sealer did you use?
We used multiple coats of a high-quality water-based polyurethane sealer for our brown paper floor. Specifically, we recommend a durable, clear, non-yellowing polyurethane, often available in satin or semi-gloss finishes. The number of coats is critical; we applied at least 4-5 coats, allowing ample drying time between each. This heavy application creates the protective, hard-wearing layer that gives the paper its remarkable durability and water resistance. It’s the most crucial step in ensuring the longevity of your DIY paper floor.
Our Final Verdict: Is Brown Paper Flooring Worth It?
After more than four years of living with brown paper flooring, our verdict remains overwhelmingly positive. This DIY alternative has proven to be an incredibly durable, aesthetically pleasing, and budget-friendly solution for our home. It has maintained its unique charm, developed a beautiful patina, and generally withstood the test of time far better than we initially anticipated.
The initial investment in time and materials is minimal compared to traditional flooring options, making it an excellent choice for those looking to renovate on a budget or add a custom, artisanal touch to their space. While it requires careful application of the sealer and diligent maintenance, the rewards are significant.
We’ve learned invaluable lessons, particularly the importance of patience during the sealing process, and we’ve gained a deeper appreciation for creative, unconventional home improvement projects. For anyone considering a distinctive, durable, and cost-effective flooring solution, brown paper flooring offers a compelling alternative. It’s a testament to the power of DIY and the beauty that can be found in unexpected materials.
We encourage you to watch our follow-up video, where we provide visual evidence of its wear and tear, demonstrate solutions to common issues, and answer even more of your questions directly. We hope our long-term experience inspires you to consider this fantastic DIY option for your next home transformation project!