Engineered hardwood flooring planks are layered, rather than being a solid piece of hardwood. The top layer is hardwood. Inner core layers may be hardwood, softwood, or both. This type of plank is more resistant to moisture damage, and is stronger than solid wood, because the lower plywood layers are laid crosswise.

Engineered flooring can often be installed directly over existing flooring at any grade level, as long as the surface is flat. A tongue and groove system in more brands allows the planks to lock together for optimal sealing. The tighter seal lends an almost seamless appearance to the floor, and provides optimal protection from seepage. This type of floor can be nailed down, glued down, or floating.

Homeowners can install the floor themselves, as it is a relatively easy project. A few basic tools are needed, including a miter saw, a jigsaw, a small table saw, a combination square, a tapping block, and a pull bar. Some homeowners may prefer the peace of mind of engaging a professional installer. Either way, the fact that the board is prefinished makes the job quick and simple. The floor can be walked on right away as soon as it has been laid.

All types of hardwood that are typically seen in solid floors can be found in engineered flooring, including oak, hickory, and maple. Bamboo has an attractive distinctive grain and can only be found as engineered boards. Different finishes provide more even choices: they may be selected for a smooth consistent look, a character look with a mixture of light and dark boards, or as hand-scraped boards which lend a vintage look to the floor.

In terms of resale value, both solid wood flooring and engineered flooring are equivalent. Unlike carpeting, hardwood floors increase a home’s value. The average lifespan of engineered flooring is about 20 or 30 years, or more, depending on the level of traffic to which it is subjected. Depending on the brand, the surface may be able to be resanded and finished, or it may not. The difference is in the width of the hardwood veneer surface. If it is less than 1 mm, it can only be recoated, not sanded.

As with any floor covering, quality and cost are closely allied. A homeowner should always spend as much as he or she can afford. While it might be painful to shell out a lot of money, it is more cost effective because the higher quality material will last longer. An engineered floor with a wear surface of 4 mm can be expected to last as long as 80 years, when properly cared for.

Engineered hardwood flooring is a smart choice for any homeowner who wants the look of hardwood floors. By using core materials of less expensive woods, engineered floors may cost less than solid wood. There is also less environmental impact, because an engineered floor uses only a quarter of the precious hardwood than a solid floor does. It is more resistant to water damage, so it can even be installed in most basements.

Are you looking for more information regarding engineered hardwood flooring? Visit http://www.hardwoodfloortoday.com/ today!

Are you looking for more information regarding engineered hardwood flooring? Visit http://www.hardwoodfloortoday.com/ today!

Author Bio: Are you looking for more information regarding engineered hardwood flooring? Visit http://www.hardwoodfloortoday.com/ today!

Category: Home Management
Keywords: engineered hardwood flooring