What Is an Engineered Wood Floor?
Welcome back to the George Hill blog. Here you'll find products, tips and advice for your bespoke home project needs. Today it's about flooring and specifically answering the common question of “what is engineered wood flooring?” So let's dive in!
What is an engineered wood floor?
Good question; engineered wood floors are a type of flooring that consists of multiple layers of wood veneer. The veneers are glued together, and then the flooring is finished with a top layer of hardwood.
These types of floors are considered more stable than solid hardwood floors, making them ideal for all areas of the home that experience changes in temperature and humidity because they can also be installed over radiant heating systems, helping them stay true to their design and style.
Why opt for an engineered wood floor?
- More stability: They are far less likely to warp or cup than solid hardwood floors. The multiple layers of wood veneer help to prevent the flooring from expanding and contracting with changes in temperature and humidity.
- Easy installation: Engineered wood floors can be installed over a variety of subfloors, including concrete, plywood, and even existing hardwood floors. They can also be installed using a floating floor system, which is ideal for do-it-yourselfers.
- Versatility: These types of floors also come in a wide range of colours, textures, and finishes. You can choose from hand-scraped and distressed options for a rustic look or opt for a smooth and shiny finish for a more modern aesthetic.
If you're considering engineered wood flooring for your home, here are a few tips to keep in mind:
- When choosing an engineered wood floor, make sure to pick one that has a thick top layer of hardwood veneer. The thicker the veneer, the more times the floor can be sanded and refinished.
- Be sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully. Engineered wood floors must be acclimated to the room before installation, so it's essential to allow time for this process.
- Consider sand engineered wood floors, they help the floor to appear refinished just like solid hardwood floors.
- Engineered wood floors come in a variety of wood species, so you can choose the one that best fits your décor.
- It’s worth noting that engineered wood floors can be installed over concrete or plywood subfloors, making them ideal for homes with problematic foundation issues.
If you're thinking about installing engineered wood floors in your home, it's a good idea to consult with a flooring professional to discuss your options. They can help you choose the right product for your needs and budget, and they can also handle the engineered wood floors installation process from start to finish.
Caring for engineered wood floor
Caring for an engineered wood floor is similar to caring for any other type of hardwood surface. Regular sweeping and vacuuming will help to remove dirt and dust, and a damp mop can be used for occasional cleaning.
- Brushing engineered wood floors helps to increase its longevity. Choose a soft-bristled broom or vacuum attachment to avoid scratching the surface. Engineered wood floors can be cleaned with a damp mop, but be sure not to flood the area with water.
- You may also need to use a mild cleaning solution if the floor becomes excessively dirty. Avoid cleaners that contain wax, oil, or silicone, as these can damage the finish.
- Once your engineered wood floors are installed, be sure to protect them from furniture scratches by placing felt pads under all chair and table legs. It would be best if you also vacuumed or swept the floors regularly to remove dirt and dust.
- Engineered wood floors can be refinished just like solid hardwood floors, so they can be easily refreshed if they start to show wear and tear.
We're here for you!
Choosing quality Flooring Sourcing quality wood to create bespoke engineered wood flooring for your home is essential, and we hope this helps. If you need support in choosing or caring for an engineered wood floor, please reach out to us. We're always happy to help!
Not sure where to start?
George Hill Timber and Building Supplies is your go-to wood supplier. We provide premium quality timber and other types of wood for all of your engineered wood floor needs.
Feel free to contact us before starting your engineered wood floor project for further information. We are available to advise and answer any questions you may have to ensure you achieve a perfect finish for your interior.