There are many types of wood flooring out there. However, one type of wooden flooring that is becoming increasingly popular is engineered wood flooring.
Before we go into the advantages and some disadvantages of this flooring type, let’s look at what engineered flooring actually is.
What is Engineered Wood Flooring?
This type of flooring consists of multiple layers of wood. Typically three to four layers of either HDF (High-Density Fibreboard) or plywood, which are glued together to create a plank.
This plank is around 14mm thick and will have a final layer on top. This is 4mm of real-wood veneer to give it an authentic look.
Engineered wood is normally installed with a tongue-and-groove system. This requires it to be glued into place, however, a click-and-lock variant is also available.
Resilient to Humidity
Engineered wood is made from plywood or rigid HDF. This means its construction is more resilient to humidity and temperature changes. Compared to solid wood, which can warp a lot easier when in humid conditions such as bathrooms.
Engineered Wood Is Versatile
Engineered wood flooring is able to go in a lot more places. Compared to solid wood due to it being less sensitive to the environment.
For example, if you need to lay it in a kitchen you will have no issues with the floor getting occasionally wet from washing up.
As a rule of thumb, anywhere solid wood can go, engineered wood can definitely go.
How Much Does Engineered Wood Cost?
Another great advantage of this type of wood is that it is reasonably priced for its quality.
Since the real-wood layer is only on the top, this can cut costs on the production of it.
The average cost you can expect is from £19 per square metre, up to more than £166 for the more expensive wood variants.
To put this into perspective, if you have been looking to install rare wood on your floor but it’s not within your budget, installing the engineered wood version will be able to make the cost a lot less for you.
Engineered Wood Can Be Restored Instead of Replaced.
Since engineered wood has a 4mm layer of real-wood veneer, you have some leeway for it if it becomes scuffed or worn. It can be sanded back and re-treated to look brand new.
However, a small disadvantage is that as the real wood is just 4mm thick and not 18-20mm thick (typical solid wood thickness), you will not be able to restore it as much as solid wood flooring.
Sussex Floor Restoration
Here at Sussex Floor Restoration, we provide floor restoration services to a host of different audiences including schools and other commercial buildings, but we also work with domestic clients to improve the look of flooring in your home.
To see how we can restore your flooring click here, call us on 01444 810505, or fill out our contact form.
