Engineered Wood Flooring
What is Engineered Wood Flooring?
Engineered wood flooring, also known as engineered hardwood flooring, is a type of flooring that is made from multiple layers of wood. It is designed to mimic the look and feel of traditional hardwood flooring while offering added stability and durability. The construction of engineered wood flooring typically consists of a top layer or veneer of real hardwood, which provides the desired aesthetic appeal. This top layer is bonded to several layers of high-density fibreboard (HDF) or plywood underneath, known as the core layers. The core layers are arranged in a cross-grain pattern, which enhances the stability and strength of the flooring.
Benefits of Engineered Wood Flooring
Engineered wood flooring offers several benefits compared to other flooring options. Here are some of the key advantages:
Durability: Engineered wood flooring is designed to be highly durable. It consists of multiple layers of wood that are bonded together, making it more resistant to warping, cupping, and other forms of damage compared to solid hardwood flooring.
Stability: The construction of engineered wood flooring, with its multiple layers of wood, provides enhanced stability. This makes it less susceptible to changes in temperature and humidity, reducing the risk of expansion and contraction that can occur with solid hardwood floors.
Wide range of styles: Engineered wood flooring comes in a variety of styles, finishes, and wood species. Whether you prefer a classic oak look or a more exotic wood species, you can find engineered wood flooring that suits your aesthetic preferences.
Easy installation: Engineered wood flooring is typically designed for easy installation. It often comes in a click-lock or tongue-and-groove system, allowing for straightforward installation without the need for extensive adhesives or nails. This makes it a popular choice for DIY enthusiasts.
Compatibility with underfloor heating: Engineered wood flooring is generally compatible with underfloor heating systems. Its construction allows for better heat transfer compared to some other flooring options, making it an efficient choice for heating your home.
Cost-effective: Engineered wood flooring can be more affordable than solid hardwood flooring, making it a cost-effective alternative. Additionally, its durability and long lifespan contribute to its value for money.
Eco-friendly: Engineered wood flooring utilises less solid wood compared to solid hardwood flooring, making it a more sustainable choice. It also often incorporates recycled materials in its construction, reducing waste.
Easy maintenance: Engineered wood flooring is relatively easy to maintain. Regular sweeping or vacuuming, along with occasional damp mopping, is usually sufficient to keep it clean.
Compatibility with various subfloors: Engineered wood flooring can be installed over a variety of subfloors, including concrete slabs and radiant heat systems, expanding its versatility and suitability for different environments.
Resale value: Engineered wood flooring is highly sought after by homebuyers due to its durability, timeless appeal, and high-quality appearance. Installing engineered wood flooring can enhance the resale value of your home.
Care and Maintenance of Engineered Wood Flooring
Proper care and maintenance are essential to keep your engineered wood flooring looking its best and prolong its lifespan. Here are some guidelines to follow:
Regular Cleaning: Sweep or vacuum your engineered wood flooring regularly to remove dirt, dust, and debris. Avoid using vacuums with beater bars or hard bristle attachments that can scratch the surface. You can also use a damp mop or microfiber cloth for light cleaning, ensuring it is only slightly damp and not wet.
Wipe Spills Immediately: Clean up any spills or liquid accidents promptly to prevent moisture from seeping into the wood. Use a soft cloth or paper towel to blot the spill gently. Avoid using excessive water or harsh cleaning chemicals as they can damage the finish.
Avoid Excessive Moisture: Engineered wood flooring is more moisture-resistant than solid hardwood, but it is still susceptible to damage from prolonged exposure to water. Wipe up spills immediately and avoid wet mopping. Use a damp cloth or mop instead.
Protect from Scratches and Indentations: Place door mats or rugs at entrances to trap dirt and prevent it from scratching the floor. Felt pads or furniture coasters should be placed under furniture legs to avoid scratching when moving them and indentations. Trim pets’ nails regularly to prevent scratches.
Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Use only manufacturer-recommended cleaning products or mild, pH-neutral cleaners specifically designed for engineered wood flooring. Avoid using harsh chemicals, abrasive cleaners, wax, oil soaps, or steam cleaners, as they can damage the finish or cause discoloration.
Control Humidity Levels: Engineered wood flooring can be affected by changes in humidity. Maintain a consistent humidity level in your home, ideally between 30% and 50%, to prevent the wood from expanding or contracting excessively. Use a humidifier or dehumidifier if necessary.
Protect from Sunlight: Direct sunlight can fade and discolour wood flooring over time. Use curtains, blinds, or UV-protective window films to minimise exposure to sunlight.
Periodic Maintenance: Depending on the wear and tear, you may need to periodically refinish or recoat your engineered wood flooring. You should consult the manufacturer’s guidelines or seek professional advice on the appropriate maintenance procedures.
Fitting Engineered Wood Flooring
This type of wood flooring should only be fitted by experienced flooring contractors. The fitting process is accomplished by following a few key steps.
Acclimatise the Flooring: Before installation, it’s essential to let the engineered wood flooring acclimate to the room’s temperature and humidity. This helps prevent any future warping or buckling of the boards. The acclimatisation period varies depending on the manufacturer, but typically ranges from 48 to 72 hours.
Prepare the Subfloor: After removing any existing flooring materials we will address any irregularities or damages on the subfloor. If necessary, we will use a self-levelling compound to correct any uneven areas. In certain situations, particularly over concrete subfloors, a moisture barrier may be necessary to prevent damp from seeping into the engineered wood.
Laying the Flooring: Before we start we will plan the layout of the flooring, considering factors like the room’s shape, entrances, and natural lighting. It’s generally recommended to install the boards parallel to the longest wall for aesthetic purposes. Spacers will be used along the walls to allow for expansion.
Finishing Touches: Once all the boards are installed, we will remove the spacers and install the baseboards or mouldings to cover the expansion gaps. We will also install transition strips where the engineered wood flooring meets different types of flooring or in doorways.
If you would like help with fitting engineered wood flooring in your home or office then get in touch today.
What rooms are suitable for Engineered Wood Flooring?
Engineered wood flooring is a versatile flooring option that can be used in various rooms and settings. Although it can handle some moisture, it is not recommended for rooms with excessive water exposure, such as bathrooms and laundry rooms. In those areas, it’s better to consider waterproof flooring options like vinyl or tile. The following rooms are ideally suited to engineered wood flooring:
Living Room: Engineered wood flooring adds warmth and elegance to living rooms, creating a welcoming and cosy atmosphere.
Bedrooms: It’s a popular choice for bedrooms as it offers a comfortable surface to walk on and can be combined with rugs or carpets for added softness.
Dining Room: Engineered wood flooring is durable and can withstand the occasional spills and foot traffic associated with dining areas. It can enhance the visual appeal of your dining room.
Hallways: These areas typically experience heavy foot traffic, and engineered wood flooring can handle it well while still maintaining its beauty.
Home Offices: Engineered wood flooring can provide a professional and sophisticated look to home offices. It creates a pleasant environment for work and can withstand the movement of office chairs.
Kitchens: While solid hardwood may not be suitable for kitchens due to its sensitivity to moisture, engineered wood flooring can be a viable option. However, it’s essential to wipe up spills promptly to prevent water damage.
Basements: Engineered wood flooring is more resistant to moisture than solid hardwood, making it a better choice for basement areas where moisture can be an issue.
As it is so stable, engineered wood is suitable for both domestic and commercial settings. Take a look at some of our recent projects below.
