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    Engineered Vs. Solid Timber

    Find out all the key similarities and differences between engineered timber and solid timber flooring

    Engineered Vs. Solid Timber

    Solid timber flooring has long sat at the apex of flooring due to its natural presence and prestige. But more recently a new type of timber flooring has emerged, one which has quickly taken centre stage in the flooring world; Engineered Timber.

    So, if you’ve decided on timber flooring it’s important to understand the differences between engineered timber and solid timber flooring.

    Let's take a look at the differences below.

    How do they measure up?

    Here are some key differences & similarities between engineered and solid timber flooring.

    Look

    There is little difference in the look of engineered timber and solid timber flooring as both products have a solid wood face and are both made from natural materials, so no two boards will look the same.

    Sound & Feel

    Comparable to solid timber, engineered timber floorboards both feel and sound similar when glued down, creating minimal footfall noise.

    Durability

    Both solid timber and engineered timber are built to withstand the test of time. Both floorboards can be re-sanded over their lifetime, this can be done many times with solid timber flooring, while engineered timber is more restricted in number of times you can re-sand the floorboards.

    Solid timber flooring is more susceptible to expansion and contraction due to temperature and humidity levels, while engineered timber is designed to be more durable, stable and sturdier over time, minimising the risk of warping and cupping due to climate and humidity.

    Price

    Being a natural product, timber flooring typically sits at a higher price point than other flooring alternatives. Although, engineered timber is significantly more affordable than solid timber flooring. View our complete timber price guide here.

    Environmental Impact

    It may surprise many people, but timber flooring is one of the most environmentally friendly flooring options you can choose for your home. All Flooring Online’s European Oak flooring is certified as sustainable by Forest Stewardship Council® (FSC®). Making the most out of every tree is also important, and engineered timber utilises more of each tree compared to solid timber.

    Installation

    With its easy lock-in system, engineered timber can be floated or glued down, making it ideal for DIY installation. Solid timber flooring, on the other hand, is not recommended for our DIY customers. Solid timber flooring also requires further staining and coating once installed and cannot be walked on immediately, however, pre-finished engineered floors can be walked on immediately after install.

    Engineered Construction

    Flooring Online have engineered timber products available in a selection of timber veneers, or face layers. Ranging from 0.6 to 4mm, there’s an appropriate flooring solution for every home, lifestyle and budget.

    Layered on top of a multi-level wood core, the 3mm timber veneer of our 14mm thick engineered timber can be re-sanded and coated approximately twice, with each sanding removing 1mm. This is the same for our striking Herringbone boards, while at 15mm, wideboard timber floorboards feature a hardy 4mm surface veneer that can be re-sanded approximately three times. 

    Shop Timber Flooring

    Cleaning Timber Flooring

    Engineered timber has so many advantages, including how much easier it is to care for than solid timber, but it still requires a bit of care and maintenance. Make life easier by avoiding the accumulation of floor scratching grit and grime in the first instance.

    Cleaning Guide

    Shop our Best Selling Timber Flooring

    FAQ

    If we didn't answer your questions here feel free to contact us on 1800 718 427

    Is Engineered Timber flooring waterproof?

    No, it is not completely waterproof however, due to its layers, it works better with water than solid hardwood timber.

    Can Engineered Timber be sanded/repolished like solid timber flooring?

    Yes, Engineered timber floors can be sanded down and refurbished in their lifetime. However, how many times this can be done depends on the thickness of the solid timber veneer. Most of our engineered timber boards are safe to sand one to three times. Our 12mm Engineered European Oak range should not be sanded. 

    Can I install Herringbone Timber flooring myself?

    We recommend that you hire a professional installer for Herringbone flooring due to the more complex board pattern and detail required for install.Â