So, you've decided you would like a wooden floor. It's probably not too long until you have quite a few questions about wood flooring and the right one to choose. Not all wood flooring is equal and there are a number of things to consider such as grade, surface finish and plank size. You may also be wondering what the difference is between engineered wood and solid wood flooring.

How is solid wood different to engineered wood flooring?

Composition

The main difference between solid and engineered wood flooring is its composition. As the name suggests, solid wood flooring is made up of solid wood throughout the entire plank, whereas engineered wood is made up of various layers beneath the top solid layer, such as pine or plywood. This top layer is made up of your chosen wood species, such as oak, walnut or birch and is called the wear layer. The base layers beneath are fitted at a 90 degree angle to the top layer and make engineered wood flooring dimensionally stable. 

Durability and longevity

The composition of engineered wood is what makes it extremely dimensionally stable. Beneath a top layer of solid oak, our engineered wood flooring planks each have a spruce pine middle layer and a counter layer veneer below. This evens out the tensions in the wooden plank and prevents the wood from bending in areas of changing moisture. Coupled with a click-lock connection, engineered wood flooring is easy to install and provides superb durability that will withstand everyday modern life. 

Sustainability

Engineered wood flooring is also a far more environmentally-friendly option over solid wood. The top layer of solid oak used in an engineered wood floor is more than substantial enough to last a lifetime - so it's not necessary to have a solid wood plank throughout where the majority of the premium wood will never be seen and is effectively wasted beneath the surface. Including alternative materials such as pine or plywood within the composition of the plank not only makes it more practical, it's also significantly more sustainable. 

Surface finish

Engineered wood flooring also comes in a variety of surface finishes including natural oil, matt lacquer, brushed and unfinished. The majority of our wood floors are finished in either natural oil or a matt lacquer. Natural oil brings out the original character and beauty of the wood whilst providing added protection. Our Heritage Collection utilises natural oil and brushed surface textures, which perfectly compliments the aged aesthetic of this handcrafted collection. Matt lacquer provides robust protection against abrasion and dirt and will withstand everyday use. White matt lacquer, such as that used to treat our St Ives Oak, accentuates the natural grain of the plank and provides a contemporary edge.

Remember if you would like any information or advice on any of our floors you can call our friendly team on 01905 340238, or email us at sales@thewoodflooringco.com. You will also find product information and installation guidelines which are available to download on each product page.