Hardwood flooring is a go-to for many people because of its timeless aesthetics and durability. Over time, many new options have hit the market to meet demand. Engineered hardwood, for example, is a popular choice as a solid wood alternative. It’s uniquely constructed, cost-effective, and can fulfill all your flooring needs. With that in mind, let’s explore more benefits of engineered hardwood floors to help you decide if they are the right choice for your next renovation project.
What is Engineered Hardwood?
Engineered hardwood is a type of flooring made of multiple layers. The top layer is a hardwood veneer made from real wood, like oak, maple, or cherry, while the bottom layers are high-quality plywood designed for stability and durability.
The pieces of plywood are glued together in a criss-cross pattern for maximum core strength, which helps prevent the flooring from warping due to temperature and humidity changes.
Seven Benefits of Engineered Hardwood Floors
There are several benefits of engineered hardwood floors, including the following:
1. Durability
Due to the many layers bonded together, engineered hardwood flooring is highly durable and can withstand heavy foot traffic and other forces that may contribute to wear and tear.
2. Affordability and Sustainability
One of the best benefits of engineered hardwood floors is that you still get the same quality look of solid wood at a more cost-effective price. This affordability is possible because the middle and bottom layers consist of high-quality plywood, leaving only a single top layer of natural wood.
Additionally, since engineered hardwood uses less solid timber, this helps conserve natural resources.
3. Less Expanding and Contracting
A downside of solid wood flooring is that it will expand and contract depending on moisture and temperature levels. Engineered hardwood floors provide an excellent solution to this issue. Thanks to its unique construction, this option works particularly well in areas of your house or building with fluctuating environments and moisture levels, like the kitchen or bathroom. Less expansion and contraction contribute to reduced warping and cracking, preserving the material’s longevity.
4. Variety
Engineered flooring typically comes in various grades, colours, and finishes. Additionally, since the core layers are plywood, the boards can be manufactured a lot wider than solid wood flooring allows, making for easier installation.
This variety and endless finishing options allow you to make your renovation your own with few limitations holding back the project.
5. Low Maintenance
While you can refinish engineered flooring, its top protective coating means that it may not be as necessary as it would be with traditional hardwood. Typically, all you need to do for maintenance is vacuum regularly, sweep away dust and dirt, and clean up any liquid spill as soon as possible to avoid staining. Of course, if repairs are needed, an experienced flooring professional can easily do this for you.
6. Looks Natural
Engineered flooring has come a long way regarding appearance. These days, good-quality options look exactly like solid wood. Since the top layer of engineered hardwood is made of real wood, it’s difficult to distinguish the difference once installed.
7. Easy to Install
If you’re looking to put in your own engineered hardwood flooring, the good thing is that the process can be quick and easy with the right tools. Some types also have a click-in system, which makes installation even more accessible.
However, if performing your own installation is not for you, reach out to our team at Rome Flooring. We’ve been installing floors for over 40 years and will ensure you reap all the benefits of engineered hardwood. We’re committed to accurate fits, premium finishes, quality service, and materials that stand the test of time.