The unique features of engineered hardwood are what make it stand out from non-engineered flooring. With engineered hardwood, there’s a lot more technique and technology to the manufacturing process. However, it also means that it comes with extra benefits.
With this engineering, more stability has been achieved for hardwoods used in flooring. The amount of research and innovation that goes into crafting this wood flooring means they stand out in terms of performance and aesthetics. The extra stability is one of the many advantages of engineered hardwood.
Engineered hardwood is different from laminate and solid hardwood floors. Also, they are built to be waterproof, amongst other amazing features. In this guide, we will explore the core characteristics of engineered hardwood floors, what it can offer to your space, and how much it will cost you to install them.
What is Engineered Hardwood?
The features of engineered hardwood, coupled with its affordability, make it commonplace across the country. As a result, it has risen to become the preferred alternative to solid hardwood floors. The main structure of engineered hardwood comprises a wood surface, while its core is artificial. This unique design results in flooring with the appearance of normal hardwood, while offering increased stability and durability.
One of the many advantages of engineered hardwood is its waterproof quality. The seamless combination of artificial materials and natural wood in its engineering is responsible for this quality.
The artificial core of these woods is made mainly of plywood, and in some cases, particleboard. Some manufacturers use high-density fiberboards. In recent times, some manufacturers have used stone-plastic composite.
Depending on the type of core used, engineered hardwood floors available in Canada come with different levels of durability. Additionally, they also offer varying aesthetic features. Come along as we go into the in-depth details of what engineered hardwood floors are!
What are the Features of Engineered Hardwoods?
Though the engineered hardwood floors you buy cannot be certified to offer the standard durability and value that other products will offer, they all have a basic framework of features. This potential difference is simply a result of varying manufacturing processes.
Below are the general features to expect from top-quality engineered hardwood floors:
The Wear Layer
The wear layer is also referred to as the top veneer. When the wear layer of engineered hardwood is perfectly constructed, it resembles solid hardwood. However, unlike solid hardwood which has a wear layer of 6 – 7mm, engineered hardwood has a wear layer of about 4mm.
Irrespective of this thinner wear layer (which is compensated in the core), engineered hardwood floors can last for several decades. With light maintenance, these woods can stay on your floor for well over 50 years.
The Core
The core is the major part of this type of flooring. It is one of the features of engineered hardwood that sets it apart from solid hardwood. In most cases, it is filled with plywood, which means increased durability of the floor.
Related article: Solid vs Engineered Hardwood Flooring
Advantages of Engineered Hardwoods
Is the cost of engineered hardwood floors worth it? This is the question that most owners of residential and commercial spaces in Canada ask. Thankfully, the answer to this question is straightforward.
The amazing benefits of engineered hardwood floors are an indication that shelling out the bucks for it is worth it. Here are some reasons why you should consider having engineered hardwood floors in your space.
It is just like real wood
The features of engineered hardwood are exactly like those of real wood. Today, the level of detail and tech that goes into the construction of engineered hardwood floors means that there is no obvious difference between it and real wood.
With the improvement in the parts and the design, it’s hard to tell them apart. Furthermore, in terms of performance, it does just as well as real wood floors.
It does not expand or contract
This advantage of engineered hardwood floors is one most people enjoy. No matter the ambient temperature and conditions, engineered hardwood floors won’t expand or collapse irrationally. This lowers the risk of damage.
However, the extent of resistance will be premised on engineered hardwood pricing models. Typically, the cost of engineered hardwood floors is a pointer to its quality. Different products from different manufacturers will have varying qualities and consequently, different prices.
They are extremely durable
Though they have a thinner wear layer than solid hardwoods, engineered hardwood floors are also extensively durable. This durability is ensured by a core that offers stability, water-resistance, and incredible toughness. This makes this flooring type a great fit for most rooms in the home.
They can be sanded easily
Sanding is easy on engineered hardwoods, compared to other types of hardwood floors. This means that it is easier to get rid of blemishes and scratches in engineered hardwood floors.
They support refinishing
Frequent finishing of your floor will help you preserve its alluring outlook. With proper finishing, even after 25 years, the floor will look as good as new again.
This advantage of engineered hardwood floors is a great one, especially with respect to aesthetics. It means that owners can choose different types of finishing without actually changing the hardwood flooring.
Very easy to install
With very little technical know-how, you can install (set up) engineered hardwood floors in your home or commercial space. Most of them have a lock and click system, which allows you to insert the adjacent wood into the other.
However, if your space has a complicated layout, a professional near you will get the job done more efficiently. Find professional hardwood floor installation near you!
What is the Cost of Engineered Hardwood Floors?
In Canada, the cost of engineered hardwood floors is typically priced at about $7 per square foot. Of course, the pricing model for engineered hardwood is not based on this alone.
Installation costs can also add to the overall costs you have to pay. You may pay up to $2.50 per square foot for a nail-down installation. If you are going for more premium wood, this will cost you about $8 to $12 per square foot.
Final Take
The features of engineered hardwood are geared towards providing a better alternative to solid wood floors. With the benefits listed above, it’s easy to see why buying engineered hardwood floors is always a plus.
LV Flooring is committed to providing residents across Canada with the finest quality of engineered hardwood floors. As such, our online store is home to the best quality engineered hardwood floors in different amazing designs and sizes. Check out our online store today!
Related article: Amazing Benefits of Engineered Hardwood Flooring
