Engineered hardwood flooring has gained immense popularity in recent years due to its numerous benefits. This flooring option combines the beauty and elegance of traditional hardwood with enhanced durability and versatility. Engineered hardwood is created through a meticulous process that involves layering different wood materials, resulting in a flooring solution that offers several advantages over solid hardwood. The benefits and the basic process of engineered hardwood flooring is what we at Flooring Solutions of Oklahoma would like to share today.
Durability of Engineered Wood Flooring
One of the primary benefits of engineered hardwood flooring is its exceptional durability. The top layer, known as the wear layer, is made of real hardwood, providing the same aesthetic appeal as solid wood. However, the underlying layers are composed of high-density fiberboard (HDF) or plywood, which adds strength and stability to the flooring. This construction makes engineered hardwood less susceptible to moisture, temperature fluctuations, and warping compared to solid wood. It is an ideal choice for areas with high foot traffic, such as hallways and living rooms.
Engineered Wood Flooring Versatility
Engineered hardwood flooring also offers versatility in terms of installation options. It can be glued, nailed, or floated, allowing for easy installation over different types of subfloors, including concrete and existing wood flooring. This versatility makes it a suitable choice for various environments, including basements and condos, where solid hardwood may not be feasible.
Eco-Friendly Engineered Hardwood Floors
Engineered hardwood is more environmentally friendly than solid wood flooring. The manufacturing process uses less hardwood, making it a sustainable option. By using fewer trees, engineered hardwood contributes to the preservation of forests and reduces the carbon footprint associated with traditional hardwood production.
How is Engineered Hardwood Flooring Made?
The basic process of manufacturing engineered hardwood involves several steps. Firstly, thin layers of hardwood veneer are sliced or peeled from logs. These veneers are then dried and glued together in a cross-ply construction, where each layer is stacked perpendicular to the previous one. This cross-ply arrangement provides excellent stability and prevents the flooring from expanding or contracting excessively. The top layer, or wear layer, is typically made of a high-quality hardwood species, which determines the appearance of the flooring. After the layers are bonded together, they undergo a process called pressing. During this step, heat and pressure are applied to create a solid and durable composite material. The final product is then milled into standard-sized boards and finished with protective coatings to enhance its longevity and resistance to scratches, stains, and wear.
Maintaining engineered hardwood flooring is relatively simple. Regular sweeping or vacuuming, along with occasional mopping using a recommended hardwood cleaner, is usually sufficient to keep the floors clean and in good condition. Engineered hardwood can be refinished if necessary, depending on the thickness of the wear layer, allowing for long-term use and versatility in changing aesthetics.
Engineered Hardwood Flooring Installation & More in Tulsa, Norman, Broken Arrow, Lawton, Edmond & Oklahoma City, OK
Basically, engineered hardwood flooring offers a range of benefits, including enhanced durability, versatility in installation, environmental sustainability, and the timeless beauty of real wood. Its manufacturing process involves bonding multiple layers of wood to create a stable and durable product. Whether you’re renovating your home or considering flooring options for a new space, engineered hardwood provides an excellent combination of style, functionality, and long-lasting appeal. Call Flooring Solutions of Oklahoma and let us ensure quality installation today.
