When it comes to flooring, we believe nothing can beat the classic beauty and elegance of wood flooring. Engineered wood flooring is the modern alternative to solid wood flooring, providing the perfect combination of natural wood and engineering that offers a stylish and durable flooring option. But with so many options available, choosing the right one can be overwhelming. In this post, we’ll help you make an informed decision by identifying six things to consider when buying an engineered wood floor.

Quality 

Not all engineered wood flooring is created equal. The quality can vary greatly, depending on factors such as thickness, number of plies, and the quality of the wood veneer. Multi-ply flooring is generally more durable and stable, while poor quality veneers may crack or peel over time. Look for flooring that meets industry standards and has a reputable manufacturer warranty.

Wood Species

Engineered wood flooring comes in a variety of wood species, including oak, maple, birch, and more. Each type of wood has unique characteristics, such as colour, grain pattern, and hardness. Consider the overall look you’re going for, and select a wood species that complements your decor.

Practicality

Where you plan to install your engineered wood flooring should be a crucial consideration. Think about your lifestyle, how much foot traffic the room will receive, and whether children and pets will be present. For example, if you have kids or pets, you may want to choose a wood floor with a matt lacquer finish that resists scratches and stains.

Engineered wood flooring is extremely durable and an ideal option for high traffic areas in the home. However, it is not suitable for bathrooms or wet rooms, since puddled water can make it swell and cause permanent damage if left for long periods of time. Consider our No-Vinyl Tiles for these areas which are highly authentic and have the look and feel of a real wooden plank whilst being 100% waterproof. 

Clevedon Oak engineered wood flooring

Installation 

Engineered wood flooring can be installed floated over underlay. All of our engineered wood flooring is manufactured with a click installation system for quick and efficient fitting. We recommend glue-down installation for our parquet or chevron floors which will provide a more stable base, but will be more time-consuming to install. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s installation instructions carefully or hire a professional installer.

Maintenance and Aftercare

All floors require some level of maintenance, but some types of floors are easier to care for than others. Engineered wood flooring typically requires light sweeping/hoovering. Mopping with an overly wet mop should be avoided since you'll want to avoid water from seeping into the grain. If it does need a deeper clean, use a dryer, wrung out mop or a damp cloth. Avoid using harsh chemical cleaners that can damage the finish or the wood veneer. Follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for care.

Engineered wood floors are usually treated with an oil or lacquer at production, so there is no need to retreat your new floor following installation. You may want to refresh your engineered wood floor every 5 years or so when you will be able to sand it down and reapply the oil or lacquer to bring it back to its former beauty. We can recommend suitable products for this purpose across our wood flooring range.

Finishing Touches

Once your flooring is installed, you can add finishing touches to create a cohesive look. Skirting boards, scotia beading, and flooring trims can provide a polished and professional touch. Choose accessories that complement your floor’s colour and finish. You should also use transition strips between rooms or flooring types for a seamless look. At The Wood Flooring Co. we can supply matching flooring trims and scotia beading for each of our engineered wood floors, which we stain by hand for the perfect finish. You can select this option on the product page for each wood floor. 

Conclusion

Choosing the right engineered wood flooring for your home requires careful consideration of several factors. Quality, wood species, practicality, maintenance, installation, and finishing touches all play important roles. By thinking through your needs and preferences, you can find the perfect flooring that offers beauty, durability, and practicality. Remember to follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for care and maintenance to keep your floor looking great for years to come. With these tips, you’ll be sure to select an engineered wood flooring that meets your needs and makes your home look stunning.