What is Engineered Wood Flooring?
The world of flooring offers a vast range of flooring options. Engineered wood flooring is a popular choice. So, what exactly is engineered hardwood flooring? Are there benefits to choosing engineered wood floors? And what are the options available to you?
What is Engineered Wood Flooring?
Engineered wood flooring is constructed with several layers of wood. It differs from traditional solid wood flooring as it contains only a top layer of hardwood. The core of engineered wood flooring is made up of plywood or high-density fiberboard (HDF).
Advantages of Engineered Wood Flooring
There are several advantages over solid wood flooring.
Stability
Engineered wood flooring provides incredible stability due to the multiple layers in the construction. At the same time, expansion and contraction is no problem for engineered hardwood flooring with changes in humidity. For areas with fluctuating humidity levels, such as kitchens and bathrooms, engineered wood flooring is a great option!
Versatility
Engineered wood flooring is extremely versatile and offers more installation options when compared to solid hardwood flooring options. It can be installed above grade, on grade, and below grade, over concrete slabs, and radiant heating systems.
Real Hardwood Look
Since the top layer is made out of real wood. The appearance of engineered wood flooring is no different from solid wood. Furthermore, it can be stained and finished to any design.
Long Life Span
Another major benefit to engineered hardwood flooring is that it can be refinished multiple times, just like solid hardwood flooring, giving it a long lifespan.
Easy Maintenance
Maintaining engineered wood flooring is as easy as using a manufacturer-approved wood floor cleaner for mopping together with regular sweeping.
It is always best practice to avoid excessive moisture exposure to solid hardwood or engineered wood flooring.
Homeowners and businesses alike are choosing engineered hardwood flooring as a preferred option because of the stability, versatility, and aesthetic appeal that it offers.
Cost Effective Flooring
Engineered hardwood flooring, per square foot, is substantially less expensive than solid wood flooring.
Disadvantages of Engineered Hardwood Flooring
As with anything, there are pros and cons to engineered flooring. Engineered hardwood flooring has more benefits and advantages than disadvantages.
Nonetheless, it is important to be aware of what these disadvantages may be.
Moisture Damage
Engineered has multiple layers in its construction whereas solid hardwood is one solid wood layer. Therefore, engineered flooring might be more prone to moisture damage when compared to solid wood.
Should the moisture penetrate through the top layer, which is a thin veneer of hardwood to the plywood or fiberboard, it may cause it to swell or warp.
The moisture damage of an engineered wood floor can be a costly repair.
Shorter Lifespan Compared To Solid Hardwood Flooring
Compared to solid hardwood, engineered flooring has a shorter lifespan.
Solid hardwood floors can be sanded down and refinished multiple times whereas there is a limit to how many times an engineered wood floor can be refinished.
Refinishing engineered flooring too many times will compromise the integrity of the floor.
Less Value Compared To Solid Wood Floors
It is also worth keeping in mind that engineered wood flooring may not add as much value to a home as solid hardwood. Homebuyers prefer the authenticity and durability of solid hardwood floors.
Consulting with a professional flooring company is the best solution to make an informed decision on h and weighing the pros and cons can help you make an informed decision when it comes to engineered flooring.
How to Install Engineered Hardwood Flooring
Professional installation of engineered hardwood is highly recommended. The process can be complex and you want it to be done effectively as well as efficiently.
Installing engineered hardwood flooring can be a complex process, but with the right tools and techniques, it can be done efficiently and effectively.
Here is a quick guide to the process of having a professional flooring company install your engineered hardwood flooring.
Once you have determined the type of hardwood veneer, design, and other particulars with a flooring company, the following process will take place.
Preparation
The subfloor will be cleaned, dried, and leveled. The old flooring, baseboards, or trim will be removed.
Lay Underlayment
An underlayment will be rolled out over the entire subfloor to provide moisture protection.
It also acts as sound insulation for your engineered hardwood.
Installation of the First Row
The first plank (and row) will be placed and spacers will be used to mark the next. The planks are attached using either the click-lock or glue-down method.
Continue with the Rest of the Rows
All subsequent rows will be joined. Usually, the planks are secured using a tapping block or hammer.
Cutting and Fitting
Once all the rows have been properly placed and secured, the cutting and fitting process takes place. This is to cover the areas around the engineered floor such as around the doorway and walls.
A miter saw or a jigsaw will be used for accurate cuts with a 1/2-inch expansion gap around all fixed objects.
Finishing Touches
Lastly, the finishing touches will be done and your engineered floor will be ready for use.
Carpet To Go – Your Flooring Expert
If you are looking for a flooring expert, look no further than Carpet To Go. Contact us today to discuss your engineered flooring needs.
