How to Choose the Perfect Engineered Wood Flooring for Your Home

Engineered wood flooring is a popular alternative to hardwood flooring that offers many benefits for homeowners. While solid hardwood flooring is made of natural wood, engineered wood is a composite material that consists of a thin layer of real wood on top of a high-quality plywood base. This construction makes engineered wood flooring more durable, stable, and affordable than solid hardwood. If you're considering installing engineered wood flooring in your home, keep reading to learn how to choose the perfect one for your needs.


Types of Engineered Wood Flooring

There are several types of engineered wood flooring available, each with its unique features and benefits. Here are the most common types:

  • Sliced: The top layer of sliced engineered wood flooring is made of thin sheets of natural wood that are sliced from a log, just like solid hardwood. This type of flooring has a smooth and consistent grain pattern and can be refinished multiple times.

  • Rotary peeled: The top layer of rotary peeled engineered wood flooring is made of thin strips of wood that are peeled from a log using a rotary cutting method. This type of flooring has a rustic and natural look but cannot be refinished.

  • Sawn face: The top layer of sawn face engineered wood flooring is made of natural wood that has been sawn into thin planks. This type of flooring has a rough and textured appearance and can be refinished once or twice.

  • Textured: The top layer of textured engineered wood flooring is embossed with a unique pattern or texture that mimics the look of natural wood. This type of flooring is ideal for high-traffic areas and requires minimal maintenance


Advantages of Engineered Wood Flooring

There are several advantages of engineered wood flooring that make it a popular choice for modern homes. Here are some of the benefits of engineered wood flooring:

  • Durability: Engineered wood flooring is more durable than solid hardwood because of its construction, which makes it less prone to warping, shrinking, or expanding due to changes in temperature or humidity.

  • Affordability: Engineered wood flooring is generally more affordable than solid hardwood because it uses less natural wood and requires less labour to install.

  • Eco-friendliness: Engineered wood flooring is an eco-friendly choice because it uses less natural wood and can be made from sustainable materials.

  • Ease of installation and maintenance: Engineered wood flooring is easy to install and requires minimal maintenance, making it a great DIY project for homeowners.


Factors to Consider when Choosing Engineered Wood Flooring

Choosing the perfect engineered wood flooring for your home can be challenging, especially if you're not familiar with the different types and styles available. Here are some factors to consider when selecting the right engineered wood flooring for your space:

  • Type of subfloor: The type of subfloor in your home will determine the type of engineered wood flooring you can use. If you have a concrete subfloor, you'll need to use engineered wood flooring that has a moisture barrier or is suitable for a floating installation. If you have a wood subfloor, you can use any type of engineered wood flooring.

  • Room traffic: The amount of traffic in the room where you install the engineered wood flooring will determine the level of durability and wear resistance you need. If you're installing the flooring in a high-traffic area, choose a type of engineered wood flooring that has a high Janka rating, which measures the hardness and durability of wood.

  • Style and colour: The style and colour of the engineered wood flooring you choose should complement the overall aesthetic of your home. Consider the colour of your walls, furniture, and decor, and choose a flooring colour that will create a cohesive look.

  • Finish: The finish of the engineered wood flooring you choose will determine its level of shine, texture, and resistance to wear and tear. Choose a finish that will enhance the natural beauty of the wood and provide the level of protection you need.

  • Budget: The cost of engineered wood flooring can vary depending on the type, style, and quality. Determine your budget before you start shopping and look for a flooring option that meets your needs without exceeding your budget.


Conclusion

Choosing the perfect engineered wood flooring for your home requires careful consideration of the type, style, colour, finish, and budget. By following the factors to consider we have discussed, you can find engineered wood flooring that meets your needs and enhances the beauty and functionality of your home. Remember to buy high-quality flooring from a reputable supplier and follow the installation instructions carefully to ensure a flawless finish.


why choose source wood floors?

Source Wood Floors is a leading supplier of solid wood flooring in the UK. We offer a wide selection of colours and styles to choose from, so you're sure to find the perfect match for your décor.

We know how difficult choosing just the right floor can sometimes be, and we want to help you get it right, so we offer a FREE SAMPLE service to all our customers, allowing you to see what the flooring looks like in your own home, under different lights and against your furnishings. 

Contact us today to learn more about our products and services, or browse our website to see our selection of engineered wood flooring.