Engineered Oak flooring is quickly becoming a popular choice to any homeowner or commercial developer. It has the same appearance, character, appeal and charm as solid Oak flooring but it is more durable and hardwearing due to its stability and strength.
There are two main types of Oak flooring: Solid Oak and engineered Oak. Once installed they both look the same and it would be very difficult to tell them apart. The main difference is the way the planks of flooring are constructed.
How is engineered Oak flooring made?
Engineered Oak flooring is far more durable than solid Oak flooring because of the way the planks are constructed. It is made by bonding multiple layers of wood together with a layer of Oak on the top. The base layer of Oak engineered flooring is either a plywood base glued to the Oak top layer, or a 3-ply block construction that has a middle layer of Eucalyptus or Hevea, which is glued at 90 degrees to the grain of the Oak top layer. This construction method ensures that the flooring is dimensionally stable because the planks do not expand and contract as much as solid wood flooring planks.
Advantages of engineered Oak flooring?
• Engineered Oak flooring is popular because of its ability to withstand fluctuations in humidity and temperature – meaning that it can be used in areas with underfloor heating, in kitchens, in conservatories and other rooms with large amounts of glazing.
• You will find it more cost effective than solid Oak flooring and can usually be found at around 20% cheaper.
• Engineered Oak flooring is available with either a tongue and groove or click fitting system.
• Engineered Oak flooring is quick and easy to install as it does not need to be fixed in position. It can be loose laid (floated) over a soundproofing or thermal underlay by clicking or gluing the planks into place.
• It is available in a variety of thicknesses.
• It can help to transform any room by adding beauty and elegance, and is the perfect choice for anyone looking for a traditional and luxurious appearance without extensive maintenance and cost.
