Engineered Hardwood: A Versatile Choice for Homeowners

Engineered hardwood is a popular flooring choice because of its durable design, smart aesthetic, and price point. Like natural hardwood, engineered hardwood boasts natural beauty and adds innovative design that stands the test of time. Solid, natural hardwood is cut directly from a specific species of hardwood. Engineered hardwood differs in that it is a multi-layered flooring product made up of a veneer of natural hardwood on top of a plywood or high-density fiberboard core. Let’s look at the basics of engineered hardwood.

Composition: Engineered hardwood is made up of several layers, which gives it both strength and stability. The top layer is the Wood Veneer Layer, ranging from 0.6 mm to 6 mm, and is what gives the floor its authentic hardwood appearance. The Core Layer, or middle layer, consists of multiple layers of plywood, high-density fiberboard, or medium-density fiberboard. These materials provide structural strength and stability. Because of the cross-grain pattern of the core layers, the wood is less susceptible to moisture and temperature changes. This construction helps the floor resist warping, cupping, and shrinking. The final layer in engineered hardwood is the Backing Layer. This final layer acts like a stabilizer, preventing expansion and contraction due to moisture and humidity. Depending on the thickness of the veneer layer, some engineered hardwoods can be sanded down once or twice, but it is limited compared to solid hardwood.

Durability: Engineered tends to be better acclimated to areas with fluctuating temperature and humidity, like basements or kitchens. 

Style and Finish: A variety of wood species are available in engineered form, such as maple, hickory, and oak, and the species determine the look and feel of the floor. It comes in a wide variety of finishes like matte, satin, or gloss. Plank size varies from narrow (3 to 5 inches), creating a more traditional, elegant look; wide planks (6 to 12 inches) are good for modern and rustic themes; and extra wide planks (over 12 inches) are used to create a dramatic look for large spaces.

Cost Effectiveness: Engineered hardwood tends to be more cost-effective than solid hardwood because of the materials used and the manufacturing process of the more affordable core materials. The layered construction can be done with machinery and requires less craftsmanship than solid hardwood, which needs to be cut and shaped. The efficient use of materials and production methods helps to keep costs down and the product eco-friendly.

Engineered hardwood combines durability, practicality, and beauty, making it a perfect choice for homeowners looking for high-quality flooring that will last for years.