Embark on a journey to discover the unique benefits of Engineered Hardwood Flooring for your home. From increased durability to eco-friendly methods, discover why it stands out as a versatile and elegant flooring alternative.
Choosing the suitable floors for your home can be a daunting task. Several factors must be considered, like installation method, durability, and refinishing capabilities.
Engineered wood is an excellent option for homeowners looking for durable, stylish flooring. It resists temperature fluctuations and moisture issues better than traditional hardwoods. It also requires less maintenance than other materials.
Durability
The durability of engineered hardwood like SOEN Hardwood is a big selling point for many homeowners. It’s less prone to moisture issues than solid wood, and its layered construction offers more resistance against temperature fluctuations.
It also allows for a broader range of surface effects, including hand-scraped, distressed, or wire-brushed, for a time-worn look. The varying textures also add to the visual appeal of the floor. Unlike traditional hardwood, engineered floors are less vulnerable to sunlight’s harmful UV rays.
However, this doesn’t mean they’re immune to damage or deterioration. Engineered floors with plywood veneers can suffer the same pitfalls as other laminate or vinyl flooring types. Poor-quality plywood is not an excellent structural material, and our squeak repair experts have seen too many instances of it breaking apart, causing gaps and warping.
Easy Maintenance
While every floor collects messes, especially with an active family, keeping engineered hardwood floors clean is easy. Sweeping regularly to remove dust, dirt, pet hair, and other debris is necessary. Vacuuming is also a good idea, as long as the vacuum has a soft beater bar set to a bare floor setting.
Avoid steam cleaning, which can cause water damage to the wood planks and void any warranty. Using a damp mop rather than soaking wet and drying any areas immediately after cleaning is also essential.
Although not completely waterproof, engineered hardwood is more moisture-resistant than solid wood flooring. However, spills and splashes should still be wiped up promptly to prevent water damage to the flooring underneath.
Eco-Friendly
With a core layer of MDF or pine and only the top veneer made of natural wood, engineered hardwood uses less solid timber than traditional solid wood floors. This reduces deforestation and helps to conserve natural resources.
Some manufacturers use reclaimed or recycled wood to construct their products, minimizing their environmental impact. Look for FSC-certified flooring with the SFI label to ensure your purchase supports sustainable forest management.
Engineered wood floors aren’t recommended in areas with high humidity, as they can warp or bow over time. They’re also prone to fading in the sunlight, so following the manufacturer’s guidelines for care and maintenance is essential. Sweep regularly, wipe up spills and splashes quickly, and avoid harsh cleaners to extend the life of your hardwood floors.
Versatility
Depending on the thickness of the veneer, engineered hardwood can be sanded and refinished as often as solid wood flooring. This versatility allows you to change your style, protect against damage, and add monetary value to your home.
Engineered hardwood also works well in spaces where traditional solid wood would not. For example, it is moisture-resistant and can be installed in below-grade areas where a nailed-down solid wood floor cannot.
When caring for your engineered hardwood floors, it is essential to sweep or vacuum regularly and mop using manufacturer-recommended products. It is also a good idea to use doormats and area rugs to help eliminate excess dirt and moisture that can cause damage to the veneer surface. Then, you can enjoy your beautiful floors for years to come!
Affordable
Achieving the hardwood floors of your dreams doesn’t have to be a DIY project. With the help of a flooring professional, you can install engineered wood floors in your home more quickly and efficiently than traditional hardwood floors.
Because engineered wood is a hybrid of plywood and natural hardwood, it can often cost less than traditional solid hardwood flooring. It also requires less solid timber to manufacture than traditional hardwood, which helps conserve natural resources.
Like traditional hardwood, engineered wood can be refinished multiple times. This makes them an excellent choice for homes with design preferences that change over time. But, choosing a high-quality engineered wood flooring that will hold up well against temperature fluctuations and moisture issues is essential. Cheaper variations of this material may fade after a few refinishes.
Conclusion
In conclusion, opting for engineered hardwood flooring offers a myriad of benefits that make it a standout choice for homeowners. The durability of engineered wood, exemplified by brands, surpasses traditional hardwood, with enhanced resistance to moisture and temperature fluctuations. The versatility of surface effects, such as hand-scraped or distressed textures, adds aesthetic charm, while the floors remain less vulnerable to UV rays than their solid wood counterparts. Despite some vulnerabilities, proper care ensures longevity.
Additionally, the easy maintenance of engineered hardwood simplifies the upkeep for active households, though caution is warranted against water damage from steam cleaning. The eco-friendly aspect, utilizing less solid timber and sometimes incorporating reclaimed or recycled wood, aligns with sustainable practices. The affordability and efficient installation process, guided by flooring professionals, further solidifies engineered hardwood as an accessible and stylish choice for creating enduring, beautiful floors in any home.
