Engineered Hardwood Flooring

Engineered wood flooring is a stack of wood veneers, or layers, laminated together. The top layer, or wear layer, is high-quality hardwood that gives engineered flooring its authentic look. Underneath is the plywood core, multiple layers glued together in perpendicular directions. These plywood planks are stable and can handle changes in temperature and humidity that ruin solid hardwood.

Engineered wood flooring has a comparatively shorter lifespan than solid hardwood flooring, but it can last for decades with proper care. You can maximize the longevity of engineered floors by choosing from higher quality and more durable options.

For example, not all engineered wood planks are created equal – the thicker, the better. The combined thickness of the wear layer, the number of layers in the core and the number of finishes can range from 3-ply construction up to 9-ply or more. A thicker wear layer can be sanded and refinished, extending the life of engineered wood floors.

Also, a harder wood species like Maple for the top veneer is more resilient than a softer wood like White Oak.

One of the best things about engineered wood flooring is its easy maintenance.

• Sweep or gently vacuum (no roller brush) to keep floors clear of debris.
• A dry microfiber push mop will quickly eliminate any dust that brooms and vacuums leave behind.
• Unlike solid hardwood, engineered flooring can be cleaned using a damp mop thanks to its moisture-resistant properties. You can also use liquid hardwood floor cleaner – just spray directly on the floor and wipe it up with a mop.

That depends on the project. If you need a fully waterproof flooring option, worry-free vinyl is the way to go.

Vinyl and laminate cost about the same, and both are convincingly made to look like natural materials such as wood and stone. The main difference between the two is that laminate, like engineered wood, is not completely waterproof due to its wood fiber core.

So, is engineered hardwood better than laminate? If you have the budget and you’re set on the authenticity of genuine hardwood, engineered flooring is better. However, laminate is easier to maintain, more durable and less costly, making it the preferred choice for many.

If you’re looking for a DIY option, engineered flooring is a type of prefinished hardwood flooring that makes installation a breeze. The tongue and groove systems of Click Loc engineered hardwood floors are easy to snap together over various flat, stable surfaces like tile and vinyl—even concrete slabs.

Unfinished engineered hardwood flooring must be sanded, stained and sealed after installation, which is ideal for matching existing flooring or achieving a custom look.