What is engineered flooring?
Engineered flooring is composed of a base of real wood, plywood or high-density fiber and a veneer glued to its base. The wood is cut to thickness (usually about 2 to 6 mm) and glued securely to a more stable element. The latter is ideally a high-quality plywood product. The thin top layer of real wood and the non-visible plywood base are what make it so different from laminate flooring. Engineered flooring is designed for greater stability, especially where heat and humidity are not suitable for hardwood.
The advantages of engineered flooring
1. Stable: Thanks to its multi-layer boards, this type of flooring resists warping and distortion caused by heat and humidity. These characteristics make it the best choice for recurring exposure to heat, concrete or damp environments.
2. Durable: A good quality engineered floor will withstand many years of wear and tear and can also be sanded to reduce the appearance of scratches and scuffs due to its real wood top layer. What this means: your floor will last longer and require less maintenance.
3. Real Wood: Because the top layer of engineered flooring is made of the same hardwood found in raw wood flooring, it retains its natural beauty. The wood veneer gives the appearance of hardwood flooring and varies depending on the type of sawing of the boards.
4. Environmentally friendly: Engineered flooring is a more environmentally friendly solution because it requires less wood during installation. Engineered flooring does not require sanding or varnishing. Ideal for condos, this type of flooring is available in several models and colours.
Maintenance of engineered flooring
Even if this type of floor is durable, it is still recommended to take care of it in order to extend its lifespan. Here are some tips and tricks for maintaining your engineered floor:
1. Sweep or vacuum regularly to prevent dirt build-up;
2. Don’t wait to clean up liquid spills to avoid staining the wood;
3. Avoid oil spills (cooking oil in the kitchen for example) which can penetrate the wood and leave permanent stains;
4. Protect the underside of your furniture or chairs to avoid scratches;
5. Use mild cleaning products specifically adapted for this type of floor;
6. Trim your pets’ claws regularly to avoid scratches;
7. Place mats strategically around the house;
8. Maintain your floor with a restorative oil.
No matter what colour or texture of wood you want, engineered flooring is a great option for a beautiful, long-lasting floor. At Planchers St-Hubert, our team of experts will guide you in your choice to meet your flooring needs. Contact us to learn about our options and to make an informed choice.