What Is Engineered Timber Flooring?

What exactly is engineered wood flooring?

Engineered wood flooring is a type of wood flooring that is made up of multiple layers of wood. The top layer is made of hardwood, such as oak or maple, while the bottom layers are made of softer woods like pine. Engineered wood flooring is more stable than solid wood flooring and can be used in areas where there is high humidity or temperature fluctuations. Engineered wood flooring is available in a variety of colours and finishes and can be installed over existing floors.

Most engineered timber flooring products are prefinished, meaning that they come with a factory-applied finish that does not require any additional work once the flooring is installed. This makes engineered timber flooring a good choice for busy households as there is no need to sand or seal the floors after installation.

Engineered timber flooring is a popular choice for homes and businesses as it offers the look and feel of real wood floors with the added stability and durability of engineered wood. If you are considering engineered timber flooring for your home or business, be sure to speak to a qualified flooring professional to ensure that it is the right choice for your space.

Advantages of Engineered Wood Floors

There are many advantages to choosing engineered timber flooring over other types of flooring, such as:

An engineered timber floor is a more cost-effective option than a solid timber floor. This is because it’s made from a selection of different timbers, many of which are available in reclaimed wood, which is much cheaper than new timber. This also means that engineered timber floor is better for the environment, as it diverts waste wood from the landfill and instead repurposes it as flooring.

You can also create a wider floor with engineered timber flooring than solid timber, as you don’t need to use one single board. This will be much more cost-effective in the long run, as you won’t need to replace the floor as often.

You can install engineered timber floors yourself, but if you have no experience with this type of flooring, it’s advisable to hire a professional. If you do decide to install the floor yourself, be aware that it comes in panels that are 12–60 inches long. This means you’ll have to install it in two-panel sections and either leave a gap in between or cut out the panels at wall junctions.

It’s much easier to install engineered timber floor than solid timber floor, as it’s lighter and comes with pre-grooved panels that fit together with a tongue-and-groove system. To help you even more, many engineered timber floor brands also offer a click-together installation method.

As engineered timber floor is manufactured from a selection of different timbers, it’s a very versatile flooring choice. You can match wood tones and colour combinations to almost any home décor, whether you want to create a rustic, country-style home or a minimalist, modern space. You can also choose from a wide range of different species of timber, letting you add even more character to your home.

Engineered timber floor is also great for creating a floor that ties together different rooms in your house. For example, if you have a large open-concept house with a kitchen, living, and dining room all in one space, and engineered timber floor will tie all these areas together.

Engineered timber floor looks and feels like real timber. You can choose from a wide selection of species, which will affect the colour of the flooring. There are also many different finishes available, so you can make your flooring dark or light, with or without knots. Engineered timber floors can also be built up with a raised pattern, either to create a texture or to hide imperfections in the boards.

Solid timber flooring is naturally long-lasting, but engineered timber floors can be even more durable. This is because manufacturers combine different types of woods that are known for their strength and durability, such as oak, ash, maple, and beech. You can also choose low-stain timbers, such as hickory, maple, and oak, which will minimize the amount of maintenance your flooring will require.

Solid Timber Flooring vs. Engineered Timber Flooring

Solid wood flooring and engineered timber flooring are both made of timber, but there are some key differences between the two. The biggest difference is the thickness of the boards. Solid wood flooring boards are usually around 2" thick, whereas engineered timber flooring boards are usually 1/2" to 3/4" thick. This means that solid wood flooring is heavier than engineered timber flooring, making it much harder to install. It also means that solid wood flooring is much more expensive and may be beyond the budget of many homeowners.



How to Install Engineered Timber Floorboards

The most common way to install engineered timber is by gluing the boards to the subfloor. This method is suitable for all types of subfloors, including concrete, plywood, and particle board. You will need to use a moisture barrier between the engineered timber floors and the subfloor to prevent moisture from damaging the floor.

Another option is to float your engineered wood floor. This means that the boards are not attached to the subfloor and can move slightly. This is a good option if you have an uneven subfloor or if you live in an area with high humidity. You will still need to use a moisture barrier as well as an expansion gap around the perimeter of the room.

Engineered wood floors can also be nailed or stapled to the subfloor. This is the most traditional method of installation and is suitable for all types of subfloors. You will need to use a moisture barrier and an expansion gap with this method as well.

Engineered timber floorboards can be installed over almost any type of subfloor, making it a versatile option for your home. It is important to choose the right method of installation for your subfloor and to use a moisture barrier to protect your flooring. With proper care, your engineered wood floor will last for many years.

How to Care for Engineered Timber Floor

Engineered timber floor is a low-maintenance option, but there are still some things you need to do to keep it looking its best. The first thing you should do is sweep or vacuum your floor regularly to remove any dirt or dust. You should also mop your floor with a damp cloth or mop to remove any spills or stains.

When you first get your engineered wood flooring, you should also apply a coat of sealant or wax to protect the surface. You should reapply this every few years, or as needed. You can tell if your floor needs to be resealed if water no longer beads up on the surface or if the colour of the wood starts to fade. Applying a sealant will not only protect the timber but will also add depth to the finish, helping it to stand out in your home. You’ll also want to use felt pads on all furniture legs to prevent them from scratching the floor.

Engineered wood floor is a great option for anyone who wants the look of real wood without the high cost or maintenance. It’s also a good choice for homes with pets or children because it’s more durable than solid timber floors. If you take care of your engineered timber floor, it will last for many years.

Enhance Your Home

If you’re looking for a new flooring option for your home, engineered timber flooring products are a great choice. Burrows Carpets and Floors in Canberra have a wide range of flooring to choose from such as timber, vinyl, laminate flooring, and more. Contact us today to learn more about our engineered timber flooring options and how we can help you enhance your home or business space.