Timber flooring comes in two types – you have the traditional solid timber planks, and the newer engineered timber planks. Understanding the difference between the two can save you both money and time, as well as prevent possible headaches down the line.
What is engineered timber flooring?
‘Engineered’ refers to the method of construction of the timber flooring plank. An engineered timber plank consists of more than one layer as opposed to solid timber, which has a single layer, or one single solid plank of wood.
Benefits Vs Issues
A common issue faced by traditional solid timber flooring, particularly in the volatile Australian climate, is that it can be prone to issues such as cupping, warping, and bowing. These issues can easily lead to an uneven, squeaky and problematic floor.
To tackle these issues, engineered timber flooring is constructed by gluing layers of timber together, with each layer's grain running in a different direction, providing more stability, and making it less susceptible to cupping, bowing, and warping. Choosing engineered timber flooring, therefore, results in a lower likelihood of problems down the line.
Versatility
Engineered timber flooring is incredibly versatile in its ability to be used successfully and effectively in many different applications. It can be seamlessly incorporated into a range of design styles and environments with stunning results.
Engineered timber is well known for the beautiful flooring it creates; however, the majority of engineered flooring can also be used just as stunningly on ceilings, doors, tables, walls, stairs and other cabinetry and joinery applications. Get creative!
Budget
Engineered timber flooring is a more affordable option than solid timber flooring. Advancements in technology and ever increasing demand have led to a reduction in overall production costs, which is passed on to the buyer.
Installing engineered timber flooring saves time and cost compared to solid timber flooring. This makes engineered timber flooring the more budget-friendly option and perfect for small through to large-scale projects.
Installation
The installation of engineered timber flooring is quicker and simpler, as unlike solid timber flooring, engineered planks are available pre-finished. This reduces installation time and cost, as lacquer or oil does not need to be applied on-site.
Engineered timber flooring is available with a tongue-and-groove or a click system profile, which allows for fast and easy installations. Both tongue-and-groove and click system profiles allow for glued down or floating installation methods; however, conditions do apply. Always check with your consultant to ensure your selected product is suitable for your intended install method and application.
Solid timber flooring may only be installed using a nail-down method and needs to be sanded and finished on the site after installation.
Availability and Range
Engineered timber flooring is available in a large and comprehensive range of colours, sizes, patterns and finishes. Due to limitations with production, solid timber just simply cannot match the variety of options that engineered timber offers. For ultimate project flexibility, an engineered board is the way to go!
Underfloor Heating
Most engineered timber flooring products can be fitted over underfloor heating. Conditions do apply, so always check with your consultant to make sure your selected product is suitable before purchase.
Solid timber flooring is too susceptible to atmospheric changes to be able to be installed over underfloor heating.
Sustainability
Timber in general is a great eco-friendly choice when sourced from responsibly managed forests. Choosing an engineered timber construction enables many more planks to be produced from a single tree, meaning less wastage, and better use of slow growing timbers than with solid timber planks that require more trees in order to produce the same amount of planks.
Warranties
Engineered, unlike solid timber flooring, is backed by a warranty, which may vary from product to product. All warranties are subject to terms and conditions so it is important to always check with your consultant if you have any questions or concerns.
Ready to explore the wonderful world of engineered wood flooring?
Engineered timber flooring is now the most common type of wood flooring used globally. It is more stable, lower in purchase and install cost, quicker and easier to install, and available in a larger range of sizes, colours, and finishes.
If you would like further help or have any questions about timber flooring – engineered or solid – book a complimentary interior design consultation with Simone, jump on our LiveChat on our website, or get in touch and we can assist you.
Check out our latest Wood Book for help with incorporating an engineered timber floor into your home or office space, or use the Havwoods Floor Visualiser tool to visualise any Havwoods flooring product in your space.
Watch this video to understand the main differences between engineered and solid timber.
