Engineered wooden floors consist of a top layer of solid wood — the veneer. This ranges in thickness depending on the quality of the flooring, but is typically between 3-7mm. Underneath the veneer are several more layers of thin wood, all glued together to form a plywood-like sandwich base.
More and more people are choosing to lay an engineered wooden floor as opposed to a solid timber floor. There can be many reasons for this decision.
Engineered wooden floors are available in an extremely wide range of timbers to suit any home. There are various effects, such as ‘aged’ and ‘sun bleached’, available.
They are also suitable for laying over many types of existing floor, such as concrete, unlike most solid boards. In addition, most engineered flooring now comes pre-finished, meaning no waxing, lacquering or oiling for you. This provides a floor that is ready to walk on as soon as it has been laid.
Boards are available in a whole host of finishes. These include ‘brushed’ which highlights the texture of the grain, to ‘distressed’ which gives the wood a more vintage feel.
In addition, some engineered wooden floors come with bevelled edges. This is a good option for those worried that a new engineered floor may look a little too perfect and pristine in a period house.
Surface treatments vary, too. Matt lacquers leave boards looking very natural, almost untreated. Oils bring out the grain of the wood, but will require a little more care and maintenance than lacquers. Satin lacquers add a sheen and tend to increase the durability of the wood.
Product shown:
HARO PARQUET 4000
Plank 1-Strip 2V Oak Markant brushed