Let's talk Engineered flooring

Engineered wood flooring is made from multiple layers of real wood, with a solid hardwood top layer bonded to a stable plywood or HDF core.

This construction makes it more stable than solid wood while retaining the authentic look and feel of real timber.

• Real wood surface layer
• Greater stability than solid wood
• Suitable for modern homes and apartments
• Available in a wide range of finishes and plank sizes

Engineered wood and solid wood each have their strengths.

• Engineered wood is more stable and less prone to movement caused by temperature or humidity changes
• Solid wood can be sanded more times but is more sensitive to moisture and heat

For most homes, engineered wood offers the best balance of performance, appearance, and practicality.

Engineered wood flooring typically ranges from:

• 10–14mm: Suitable for light to medium domestic use
• 15–20mm: More substantial feel, ideal for living areas
• 20mm+: Premium boards with thicker wear layers

The thickness of the top (wear) layer is especially important for longevity.

High-quality engineered wood flooring can last:

• 20–30 years with proper care
• Even longer if the wear layer allows for sanding and refinishing

Durability depends on the thickness of the real wood layer, installation method, and ongoing maintenance.

Engineered wood requires expansion gaps around the room perimeter.

• Skirting boards provide the cleanest finish
• Beading or scotia trim can be used where skirting can’t be removed
• Doorways should be finished with appropriate threshold bars

Engineered wood flooring is not waterproof, but it is more moisture-resistant than solid wood.

• Suitable for living rooms, bedrooms, hallways, and kitchens
• Spills should be wiped up promptly
• Not recommended for bathrooms or wet rooms

Moisture resistance varies by product, so always review individual specifications.

• Vacuum or dry mop regularly to remove grit
• Use a damp (not wet) mop with a wood-floor-safe cleaner
• Avoid steam mops and excessive water

Consistent, gentle cleaning preserves the wood’s finish.

1. Measure the room length × width
2. Convert to square metres
3. Add 10% extra for wastage (15% for angled or herringbone layouts)

Ordering extra helps avoid delays and batch variation issues.

Engineered wood flooring can be installed in several ways:

• Floating installation (click system)
• Glue-down for added stability
• Secret nail (for thicker boards and timber subfloors)

The best method depends on board thickness, subfloor type, and room usage.