Engineered wood flooring has become a popular choice for many homes. Solid wood floors are made from a single piece of timber, but engineered wood has different layers, which include a real wood top layer glued to several layers of plywood underneath. Let’s take a look at the pros and cons of engineered wood floors.
What Is Engineered Wood Flooring?
It might be best to think of engineered wood flooring as being like a sandwich. The top layer that you see and walk on is real hardwood, which gives it the natural look of wood. The lower layers then give strength and stability. This strong structure helps the floor resist warping if there are big changes in temperature.
The Good Points
The surface of engineered wood is made from real wood, so you get the same natural appearance but with added benefits. It also works well with underfloor heating systems, and the layered design also makes it less likely to expand or shrink with seasonal changes. Another plus is that engineered wood handles moisture better than solid wood, which makes it suitable for kitchens and basements. It’s also easy to install, with options to glue it down, nail it down or install it as a floating floor that clicks together. If the top layer of wood is thick enough, you can sand it to remove scratches and marks, but not as many times as solid wood. You can find engineered wood in many styles, colours and finishes to match your home from firms such as https://www.irwintiles.ie/wooden-flooring/engineered-wood-flooring.
The Drawbacks
Engineered wood usually doesn’t last as long as solid wood floors, which can survive for generations. Quality engineered floors might only last 20-40 years with good care. It also costs more than laminate or vinyl flooring, but it’s usually cheaper than solid hardwood. Like all wood floors, it can get scratched by furniture or pet claws and while it handles some moisture, it’s not waterproof, as standing water can damage it. But for most rooms in your home, engineered wood offers a good balance of looks, practicality and value.
