If you have been researching flooring options for your next project, you’ve probably come across engineered wood flooring. While it may look and feel like traditional hardwood, engineered wood flooring has unique properties and benefits that set it apart from solid hardwood. In this article, we’ll cover what engineered wood flooring is, how it’s made, its advantages and disadvantages, and how it compares to other flooring options.
What Is Engineered Wood Flooring?
Engineered wood flooring is a type of wood flooring constructed from multiple layers of material, with a real wood veneer on top. This top layer is typically a thin slice of hardwood that gives engineered wood its authentic look, while the core layers are made from high-quality eucalyptus or birch plywood. These core layers are arranged in a crisscross pattern, giving engineered wood flooring superior stability compared to solid hardwood.
How Is Engineered Wood Flooring Made?
Engineered wood flooring is manufactured using a layered construction process, designed for durability and stability. Here’s a breakdown of the typical layers in engineered wood flooring:
1. Top Layer (Wear Layer):
The top layer, or wear layer, is made from real hardwood, such as oak. This layer gives engineered wood its aesthetic appeal, and because it’s made of real wood, it can be sanded and refinished (though less often than solid hardwood).
2. Core Layers:
The core consists of several layers of eucalyptus or birch plywood. These layers are stacked in alternating directions and bonded together, creating a stable structure that is less prone to warping or expanding when exposed to moisture or temperature changes.
3. Backing Layer:
Some engineered wood floors include a backing layer for added support and stability. This layer helps prevent the flooring from bowing or bending, enhancing durability.
The layered construction gives engineered wood flooring its unique ability to handle humidity and temperature fluctuations better than solid wood. This makes it suitable for environments where solid hardwood might not be ideal, such as basements, kitchens, and even bathrooms with proper care.
Advantages of Engineered Wood Flooring
Engineered wood flooring combines the best of both worlds: the look of real hardwood with added durability and stability. Here are some of the top advantages:
1. Authentic Look and Feel
2. Improved Stability
The layered construction of engineered wood makes it more resistant to expansion, contraction, and warping caused by moisture and temperature changes. This stability is especially beneficial in areas like basements, kitchens, or homes in humid climates.
3. Refinishing Options
4. Eco-Friendly Choice
Because engineered wood uses a thinner layer of hardwood on top, it uses less solid wood overall, making it a more sustainable option. The use of plywood layers also allows for more efficient use of resources.
5. Lower Cost Compared to Solid Hardwood
Want to use engineered wood flooring for your next project?
Engineered wood flooring is a versatile, durable, and visually appealing option that offers the beauty of real wood with added stability and moisture resistance. While it may not last as long as solid hardwood in some scenarios, its affordability and compatibility with different environments make it an attractive choice for homeowners and designers alike. Whether you’re renovating or are embarking on a brand new build, engineered wood flooring offers a balance of beauty and resilience that makes it a strong contender for any project.
Silvanus Flooring offers a range of exquisite luxury engineered wood flooring options, all finished with imported oils and lacquers from Rigo Verffabriek, a world-renowned flooring coatings manufacturer based in The Netherlands. These products, combined with our exceptional quality floor boards, ensure longevity and aesthetic appeal for any flooring installation.
Let's chat!
We are ready to chat about your engineered wood flooring needs! Give as a call on +27 87 153 6390 or email info@silvanusflooring.co.za to discuss your specific project requirements.
