If you’ve visited a flooring showroom in your search for a new floor, you might have come across engineered hardwood flooring among your choices. If you want the look of real wood floors with the durability and affordability of laminate flooring, this could be the ideal option. But with so many engineered hardwood designs available, how do you choose the best one for your home?
What is engineered hardwood flooring?
Engineered hardwood is a type of flooring that is made up of layers of wood that are glued together. The top layer is a veneer of real hardwood, while the core is made up of spruce, plywood or fibreboard.
This construction makes engineered hardwood more stable and resistant to moisture than traditional hardwood, which can be prone to warping and swelling in humid conditions.
Engineered hardwood is also more affordable than real wood floors, and it can be installed over concrete or in below-grade areas. This has made engineered hardwood flooring increasingly popular in recent years due to its strength, versatility, and affordability.
What to consider when choosing engineered hardwood flooring?
As with any new flooring choice, it’s important to do your research before getting your new floor installed. You’ll want to consider things like finish and durability — especially if you have young children or pets. Why not read our guide to finding the best pet-friendly flooring for more advice?
Wood species
The species of wood used for the top layer of engineered hardwood can affect the look and cost of the flooring. Engineered oak flooring, for example, will give a different aesthetic to engineered maple, ash, or walnut.
Finish
The finish of the engineered hardwood can also affect its durability and appearance. Some finishes, such as UV-cured aluminium oxide, offer extra protection against scratches and wear.
Thickness
The thickness of the top layer of the engineered hardwood can affect its durability and how many times it can be sanded and refinished. Thicker top layers can also provide a more authentic look and feel.
Installation method
Some types of engineered hardwood are designed to be glued down, while others are designed to be floated over an underlay. The type and complexity of the installation can affect the price of your flooring.
Cost
As with any flooring option, the cost of engineered hardwood can vary widely depending on the quality of the materials and the complexity of the installation. It’s always wise to ensure your flooring is suitable for your budget before purchasing.
Top engineered hardwood flooring options at First Floors
At First Floors, customers can choose from a wide variety of engineered hardwood options from some of the top manufacturers in the industry. Here are some of our favourites:
Kahrs
Kahrs is a Swedish flooring manufacturer that has been in business for over 160 years. They offer a wide range of engineered hardwood options in various wood species, finishes, and thicknesses. Their patented Woodloc system allows for easy installation without the need for glue, and their products are designed to be eco-friendly and sustainable.
Boen
Boen is a Norwegian flooring manufacturer that specialises in high-quality engineered hardwood. Their products are made from sustainably sourced wood and feature a multi-layer construction for added durability.
Quick-step
Quick-Step is a Belgian flooring manufacturer that offers a wide range of flooring options, including engineered hardwood. Their products feature a scratch-resistant finish and a variety of wood species and thicknesses. Quick-Step also offers a patented Uniclic installation system that makes installation fast and easy.
Amtico
While not technically an engineered hardwood, Amtico is a popular luxury vinyl flooring option that offers the look and feel of real wood.
Amtico vinyl is made with high-quality materials and advanced manufacturing techniques that create a durable, scratch-resistant surface that can withstand heavy traffic and wear. Additionally, it comes in a wide range of designs and colours that mimic the natural look of hardwood, allowing homeowners to achieve the same aesthetic without the cost or upkeep.
Panaget
Panaget is another great choice for engineered hardwood flooring because of the brand’s commitment to quality and sustainability and the variety of designs available. They use only the best materials, including French oak and other hardwoods, which are sourced from sustainable forests.
If you’re looking for natural flooring that is able to withstand a fair bit of wear and tear, then Panaget might be for you. A multi-layer construction means this flooring resists warping and moisture damage.
Quality flooring with First Floors
The first step in making the right choice in your new flooring is to choose a quality, reliable manufacturer. It’s also important to make sure that you have a look at your potential choices in person, so you can really see what your flooring will look like in natural light — rather than just on a computer screen
At First Floors, all of our flooring and carpet showrooms are of an exceptional standard, so you can see exactly what you’re getting. Contact us today with any questions and head to our flooring showroom in Glasgow.