A Step-by-Step Guide to Making Engineered Hardwood Flooring

Introduction

Engineered hardwood flooring is a popular choice for many homeowners because it offers the beauty of wood floors with the added durability of a laminate. If you're considering engineered hardwood floors for your home, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know, from choosing the right product to installing and caring for your new feet.

Engineered hardwood flooring – what is it?

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Engineered wood flooring is a kind of wood flooring composed of several different layers of timber. The top layer is made of a hardwood veneer, while the bottom layers are made of plywood or fiberboard. Engineered hardwood floors are more stable than solid hardwood floors, making them less likely to warp or cup over time. They can also be installed over concrete or subfloors, making them ideal for homes with basement floors. Engineered hardwood floors are available in various finishes, colors, and styles, making it easy to find one that matches your home’s décor.

How to choose the right engineered hardwood flooring?

Types of engineered hardwood flooring

Engineered hardwood flooring comes in various colors, finishes, and thicknesses. There are three main types of engineered hardwood:

1. Plywood-core engineered hardwood: This engineered hardwood is made with a plywood core and a thin veneer of hardwood on top. It's the most affordable option and can be installed over concrete or wood subfloors.

2. Solid-sawn-engineered hardwood: Solid-sawn-engineered hardwood is made with a solid piece of lumber as the center core, making it more stable than plywood-core options. However, it's also more expensive and can be difficult to install over concrete subfloors.

3. Finger-jointed hardwood: Finger-jointed hardwood is made by joining shorter pieces of lumber with finger joints (also known as splines). This makes the overall plank more stable and less likely to warp or cup than solid-sawn options. However, finger-jointed boards are also more expensive than other engineered hardwoods.

Factors to consider when choosing engineered hardwood flooring

When choosing an engineered hardwood floor, there are several factors you should consider to find the best option for your home:

1. The type of subfloor you have: Engineered hardwoods can be installed over concrete or wood subfloors, but some types are better suited for specific substrates than others. For example, plywood-core boards are generally the best option for concrete subfloors, while solid-sawn boards are better suited for wood subfloors. Ask a professional before purchasing if you're not sure what subfloor you're using.

2. The width of the boards: Engineered hardwoods come in various board widths, from 3 inches up to 8 inches wide (or even wider). The width you choose will ultimately depend on personal preference and the overall aesthetic you're trying to achieve in your space. Keep in mind that wider boards are more expensive than narrower ones.

3. The thickness of the boards: Engineered hardwood boards come in various thicknesses, from 3/8 inch up to 1 inch thick. The consistency you choose will depend on the type of subfloor you have (wider boards are generally better for concrete subfloors) and the overall look you're trying to achieve. Thicker boards tend to be more expensive than thinner ones.

4. The finish of the flooring: Engineered hardwoods come in various finishes, from unfinished and raw (which allows you to stain and finish the floors yourself) to pre-finished options in multiple colours and styles. The finish you choose will depend on personal preference and your budget. Pre-finished engineered hardwoods tend to be more expensive than unfinished options.

5. The warranty: Most engineered hardwoods come with a 20-year warranty, but some brands offer more extended warranties (up to 25 years or even lifetime).

How to install engineered hardwood flooring?

Preparation

Before installing engineered hardwood flooring, you need to ensure the subfloor is level and clean. If the subfloor isn't level, you'll need to level it before proceeding with the installation.

You must also ensure the subfloor is clean before installing engineered hardwood flooring. Any dirt or debris on the subfloor will show through the finished flooring, so it's essential to ensure the surface is as clean as possible before starting.

Installation process

Installing engineered hardwood flooring is a relatively simple process that most do-it-yourselfers can do. The first step is to choose the direction in which the flooring will run. Generally, it's best to run the flooring perpendicular to any windows in the room to let in the most natural light possible.

Once you've chosen the direction, start by laying down a row of boards along one wall, ensuring each board is snug up against the one next. Once an entire row is laid down, use a pneumatic nailer to attach each panel to the subfloor using nails or staples specifically designed for hardwood floors.

Continue working across the room until all engineered hardwood floorings have been installed. Then, sit back and enjoy your new floors!

How to care for engineered hardwood flooring?

Maintenance tips

Engineered hardwood flooring is a beautiful and durable investment that can last many years with proper care. Here are some tips on how to keep your engineered hardwood floors looking like new:

-Sweep or vacuum regularly to remove dirt, dust, and debris. Be sure to use a soft brush attachment or setting on your vacuum to avoid scratching the surface of the floors.

-Mop the floor with a moist cloth, or use a mop specially created for hardwood floors, if required. Do not soak the floor when mopping since this can harm the wood.

-Spot clean spills immediately with a dry cloth or paper towel. Use a mild cleaning solution specifically designed for hardwood floors for tougher stains. Please do not use harsh chemicals or scratch too hard, as it can damage your flooring.

-Place mats at entryways and high-traffic areas to help reduce wear and tear.

-Have professional cleaners clean your floors periodically to maintain them.

Engineered hardwood flooring vs. solid wood flooring

Engineered Hardwood Flooring vs. Solid Wood Flooring

There are several critical differences between engineered hardwood flooring and solid wood flooring. Engineered hardwood is composed of multiple layers of wood, with the top layer being a thin veneer of the desired wood species. This construction makes engineered hardwood more dimensionally stable than solid wood, meaning it is less likely to warp or cup over time. Engineered hardwood can also be placed on top of radiant heating systems, while solid wood can't.

Another key difference is that engineered hardwood can be refinished multiple times, while solid wood can only be refinished once or twice. This makes engineered hardwood a more durable option in the long run. Finally, engineered hardwood tends to be less expensive than solid wood.

You must consider your needs and budget when choosing between engineered hardwood and solid wood flooring. Engineered hardwood may be the better option if you want a durable floor that can be refinished multiple times. Engineered wood might be a great option if you have a minimal budget since it's generally more affordable than solid hardwood.

Conclusion

Engineered hardwood flooring is an excellent option for those looking for the beauty of hardwood floors without the high price tag. It is also more durable and easier to install than solid wood flooring. When choosing engineered hardwood flooring, it is essential to consider the type of wood, the thickness of the veneer, and the installation method. The care and maintenance of engineered hardwood floors are similar to solid wood floors but with a few additional considerations. Engineered hardwood flooring is an excellent choice for those looking for an attractive and durable flooring option.