Engineered hardwood flooring — A favourite flooring choice

Today, engineered wood flooring is the most popular type of hardwood flooring. They’re strong, resistant to wear and tear, and preferred by homeowners who want a warm, hardwood option. Engineered hardwood flooring is a $30 billion booming industry that continues to grow. As with any burgeoning industry, the market is constantly evolving. Recent flooring options comprise environmentally sustainable wood pallets.

Unlike traditional hardwood flooring, engineered floors provide high resistance, durability, and maintenance. Several varying options are available choose from, including bamboo, oak, and birch, to name a few. Beyond the aesthetic appeal, homeowners and building constructors favour this type of hardwood for other reasons, which are discussed in this guide.

One Flooring Category, Several Flooring Styles

There is hardwood flooring, and then there is engineered hardwood flooring. Homeowners can get the latter not only in several species but also varying finishes. Such products include semi-gloss, high-gloss, and matte. Such features influence the quality, cost, and lifespan of the wood panels.

Additionally, homeowners can choose from a variety of effects to give the floor a unique look that complements the home’s overall design theme. These styles span from traditional to contemporary. A flooring option can appear slightly distressed for a rustic look and feel. Likewise, a hand-scraped engineered hardwood floor will have a worn appearance.

Are Engineered Hardwood Panels Durable?

Although hardwood floors are manufactured with the intent to last long, several factors influence performance and durability. They include:

• Flooring material quality
• The top surface layer (veneer) thickness, and
• Level of maintenance

Engineered hardwood, unlike certain other flooring materials, works well in every interior area, regardless of the structure. It increases property value, just like traditional hardwood flooring. And the best part? Engineered wood is more affordable than hardwood. However, installing it comes with a clause. The installation area must be free from moisture.

Property owners can install a protective layer to prevent moisture from coming in contact with the hardwood floor. By doing so, engineered flooring in areas that are prone to more extreme impacts from various activities, including bathrooms and basements, can retain its appeal and performance longer.

Is Engineered Wood Thicker Than Solid Wood

When compared to solid wood, engineered wood lacks slightly in thickness. While the former is available in sizes ranging from 1/2” to 3/4”, the latter sits anywhere between 3/8” to 3/4”. So, why is it classified as “engineered”? In the materials industry, an “engineered” item implies “engineered to withstand extreme stresses.” By way of explanation, engineered products are manufactured to withstand heat and intense pressure.

Engineered plywood is a popular example. Although it is not as thick as solid wood, its toughness makes it an excellent choice. Its added advantage also includes the fact that its installation doesn’t get in the way of doors — a factor that can’t be said for its counterpart.

How Long-Lasting Are Engineered Hardwood Panels?

On average, engineered floor panels still look stunning and perform excellently after 20 years. They need constant maintenance due to the solid hardwood veneer used as the top surface. While hardwood is typically the most durable flooring option, it is susceptible to wear and tear from friction with carpet, rugs, and even furniture.

Scratches are a common occurrence, which can be fixed using a piece of cotton fabric and rubbing alcohol or a wax repair kit. Likewise, a scratch-resistant topcoat will protect the top layer, keeping it as new as ever.

Comparing Engineering Wood to Laminate Wood

Both engineered and laminate woods look to be the same on the surface, which might be confusing. These flooring options, however, differ in the sort of material used to make them. As stated previously, engineered wood has a solid wood top layer. Laminated wood, on the other hand, has a photographic layer. But then, this component has a wood-like wear-layer coating applied to it.

Customizing Engineered Wood Flooring

One of the most appealing features of engineered hardwood is the ease with which it may be customized. Property owners can choose the type of stain, finish, design, and grade of their floors, among other options. The depth of the stain or the variety of finishes found in the industry is limited only by a floor owner’s desire to install the surface.

Choosing a high-quality engineered product that is durable and easy to care for is key in producing a floor that looks great and offers excellent value for years to come. Customization of this flooring option for building project owners include:

Choosing the Wood Species

Over 10 wood species exist in the hardwood flooring industry; this gives property owners a wide range of design options based on colour, grain, pattern, and thickness. Each species comes with its unique look and feel tailored to make an interior space more immersive. The style of engineered hardwood selected can make a home or office look more contemporary, modern, Scandinavian, minimalist, or even traditional.

Selecting the Ideal Width

Combing various widths in a flooring project gives the floor a variety of aesthetic designs. On the other hand, sticking to one dimension creates more uniformity. Individuals overseeing such constructions can choose either option, depending on their preferences.

Inspecting the Wood

The engineered wood product must be as carefully inspected, before installing it as a regular, finished floor. Any damage or defects could affect the installation of the new floor.Homeowners should consult with a professional before adding engineered wood to their home.

How Much Does Engineered Hardwood Cost?

The price for solid wood flooring range from $4 to $12 per square foot, whereas engineered hardwood costs anywhere between $2.5 to $10 per square foot.

The Bottom Line

Engineered hardwood is unique among wood floors in that it can be used as a stunning accent in any interior space while providing a waterproof and environmentally sustainable structure. Homeowners can also choose from a variety of stain colours.

When compared to most flooring options, engineered floor panels are tougher and more lasting. They can be used in small rooms like the kitchen and bathroom without compromising aesthetics.

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