Engineered wood flooring can really change your home. Here are some top things you need to know…
Wood is the most popular yet expensive flooring option. It is definitely elegant, adaptable, and flexible material for flooring. It has been used in public buildings and homes for centuries. Yet, despite its great benefits, wood flooring has a set of challenges that make it a hard purchase for homeowners. Luckily, there is a good alternative to solid hardwood named engineered wood flooring.
With the solid wood appearance and easy installation, engineered wood has turned out to be a popular option for many homes. Giving the same appealing feel and unique look, engineered wood is such a great choice for any part of your home.
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Durability
Engineered wood flooring is a perfect alternative to solid hardwood flooring. As it is made in layers, it has good stability. It means that it is not prone to warping or shrinking just like the solid wood. Its stability makes it likely to utilize a click system at the seams makes it very easy to install. ‘
Before installing, it is important to pay attention to your home condition. This phase is called the acclimation period. Even though engineered is said more stable than solid wood, it will still move slightly. The durability of this flooring type actually depends on the plank thickness. Thinner planks can last up to thirty years while the thicker ones can last up to eighty years.
Designs and look
The designs and looks of the engineered wood flooring are depending on four aspects such as plank size, surface finish, grain grades, and wood species. The grade of hardwood actually will not affect the quality, but the way the floor looks instead. Since it’s made of natural wood, each plank has a charm and unique character. A brushed finish gives the marking and texture more visible. On the other hand, sanded wood is such a perfect choice for interiors with a contemporary style. As the floor is durable, you can extend its lifespan by sanding and refinishing it.
How to maintain
The finish applied and the top layer are the key when selecting a wood floor that fits your home style and expectations. Most engineered woods can be sanded at least twice a year. The finish will affect its appearance somehow. Oiled and lacquered finish are popular options to finish the floor. The lacquered finish must be applied to the wood surface alongside the layers to protect it from barriers. When compared to an oiled finish, the lacquered finish is better as it can be used in busy areas like dining rooms or kitchens as it is more resistant to marks and spills. However, when it is worn, it needs to be sanded off and then reapplied.
Another option is oil finish. Oil finish gives a more natural look to the floor. It allows the feel of the wood and the original texture. Besides, it can also protect it from drying out. However, an oiled finish is not recommended to be applied in busy areas like kitchens as it is not resistant to marks and spills.
Where to apply
Engineered wood flooring is flexible and adaptable as it can be applied in most areas of your home including kitchens, living rooms, dining rooms, bedrooms, and hallways. Nonetheless, it is important to keep in mind to not apply it in moisture environments like bathrooms since it is a natural product. If you consider using it in the hallways or kitchen, it is recommended to layer it with a lacquered finish as it’s resistant to marks when compared to an oiled finish.
An engineered wood flooring can bring all the greatest qualities of solid wood to your house. Although it needs complex maintenance, this flooring type can add a rustic and elegant touch to your house.
