Tongue & Groove Engineered Wood Flooring FAQs
What Is Engineered Wood Flooring?
Engineered wood flooring has been purposefully designed and built using a combination of plywood and solid wood. Due to its hardwood top layer, engineered wood flooring is a very convincing replica of solid wood. In fact, once it’s laid you won’t be able to tell the difference!
Almost all our engineered wood flooring products use the simple tongue & groove installation method.
How Is Engineered Wood Flooring Made?
Engineered wood flooring is made by taking 3-12 layers of plywood and gluing them on top of each other. The layers of plywood are then topped with a layer of solid wood to create an exact replica when installed. The creative construction of engineered wood flooring means that it is more stable and durable than solid wood flooring.
Is Engineered Wood Flooring Waterproof?
No, due to the solid wood surface, engineered wood flooring is not waterproof. It can withstand small amounts of spillage, but we still advise that you clean them quickly to avoid damage.
If puddles are left for too long, the liquid can seep into the cracks causing warping and discoloration. However, as long as you clean up any spillages quickly, your engineered wood floor will look great for years to come.
Is Engineered Wood Flooring Suitable For Kitchens?
Due to their unique composition, engineered wood floors are durable enough to withstand high volumes of activity. They can also cope well with moderate levels of moisture and humidity that you might find in your kitchen.
However, if you do plan to install engineered wood flooring in your kitchen, we suggest opting for a lacquered finish which provides an impermeable top layer and offers greater protection.
Is Engineered Wood Flooring Suitable for Bathrooms?
Engineered wood flooring is not waterproof and therefore is not suitable to be placed in bathrooms.
We recommend looking at our LVT range if you need a floor that is suitable for bathrooms. We also have some laminate flooring options that have waterproof capabilities. Both laminate and LVT offer a wood effect, whilst still being able to withstand higher levels of moisture and humidity.
How Do I Keep My Engineered Wood Flooring In Top Condition?
Engineered wood flooring is highly durable and will withstand the pressures of any busy household. That said, there are a few things you can do to keep your flooring in excellent condition and looking as good as when it was first laid:
- A daily sweep or clean with a damp mop.
- Mopping up spillages as soon as possible to avoid staining.
- Reapplying oils regularly ensures your floor has maximum protection.
For more information on how to maintain your engineered wood flooring, visit our maintenance guide.
Does Engineered Wood Flooring Need Underlay?
Engineered wood flooring is dense enough to be laid without an underlay. However, for a professional finish and the best possible results, we always recommend installing underlay as well.
Underlay is a thin layer of cushioning material that is placed between the subfloor and the wood flooring.
Installing underlay will smooth out your sub-floor and make it even, so you’ll be able to lay your engineered wood floor on an even ground which will offer your floor more stability. It will also add an extra layer to your flooring making it softer and more comfortable beneath your feet. Not only that, but it improves the insulation of your home too, making your rooms warmer and improving energy efficiency. A massive bonus, considering the current energy prices and living costs.
Can Engineered Wood Flooring Be Installed Over Ceramic Tile?
Engineered wood can be installed over ceramic tile however, you need to ensure that the tile is in good condition before installing your engineered wood flooring. If the tile is damaged or uneven then it will cause problems for your new floors such as creaking, hollowness, or uneven planks. Having an even subfloor is a must if you want your new engineered wood flooring to last many years to come.
Does Engineered Wood Flooring Scratch Easily?
Like any wood floor, engineered wood flooring can be susceptible to scratches, but will withstand the usual pressures of daily use, even in busy family households.
If you do find that your flooring has been heavily scratched, the solid wood top layer can be sanded down and refinished. Where heavy damage is a concern, we advise checking the wear layer and opting for a thicker veneer to offer more chances for refinishing in the future. This way, your engineered wood floor can look brand new for years without you having to worry about any damage.
You can also choose from a selection of finishes that will help protect your flooring from scratches. The most popular options are oil and lacquer. Oil finishes will soak into the wood to strengthen it whereas, lacquer is a thicker finish that offers more protection.
Can Engineered Wood Floors Be Sanded and Refinished?
Yes, engineered wood floors can be sanded and refinished. The number of times you can sand and refinish your flooring depends on the thickness of the top layer.
How Long Does Engineered Wood Flooring Last?
Thanks to the durability and stability of engineered wood floors they can last for decades. If looked after properly, engineered wood floors can last up to 30 years.
Does Engineered Wood Need To Acclimate?
We recommend acclimatising your engineered wood floor so that it can become used to the conditions of your home before it is installed. Even though it is more stable than solid wood flooring, engineered wood floors will still move slightly so it’s best to let them acclimate before installation. We recommend a minimum of two days between receiving your floor and installing it, but the longer you can leave it to acclimatise, the better.