What Makes Engineered Timber Flooring So Popular

The Timber Flooring of Choice

Engineered timber flooring has become one of the most popular flooring choices across residential and commercial properties. It provides the natural beauty of timber while avoiding the movement, installation challenges, and cost associated with solid timber flooring.

What is Engineered Timber Flooring?

Engineered timber flooring is made of multiple layers bonded together. The top layer, known as the lamella, is a timber veneer that gives it the authentic timber look. The core is made of a cross-laminated hardwood, block board or plywood to improve strength and dimensional stability. Finally, the backing layer protects the boards.

Advantages of Engineered Timber Flooring

Timber Stability

The cross-laminated core reduces the impact of moisture and humidity on the boards. By alternating the grain direction in each layer, the flooring is less prone to cupping, warping or shrinking compared to solid timber. This added stability makes engineered timber flooring suitable for most Australian climates.

Versatile installation

Engineered timber flooring offers installation flexibility. It can be laid in a variety of patterns, including classic straight lay, herringbone and chevron, allowing for design creativity. It can also be installed over concrete slabs, particleboard or existing timber floors, making it ideal for new builds as well as renovations.

Cost

Compared to solid timber flooring, engineered timber is a more affordable option. It still delivers the look and feel of real timber but at a lower cost. This makes it a popular choice where a timber look is required, yet budget is still a consideration.

Range of Design Options

Because the top lamella is made from genuine timber, engineered timber flooring offers a wide range of species and finishes. Offering the opportunity for alternative colours, engineered boards can be designed in rich, dark tones all the way to light, white-washed boards to suit any interior.

Maintenance

Engineered timber floors are low maintenance. The top layer or lamella of the flooring can be re-sanded if scored or damaged. Bowens Arbre and Botanic engineered timber flooring have a 10-year coating warranty and 25-year structural warranty for peace of mind.

Quick and Easy Installation

These boards are designed with a locking system for easy installation, accelerating the installation timeframe. Unless it experiences extreme climatic conditions, engineered timber flooring does not need acclimatising like solid timber boards.

Pre-Finished

Engineered timber floorboards arrive pre-finished, meaning less mess and no fumes from on-site sanding and finishing. Plus, it saves time and labour post-installation.

Compatible with Underfloor Heating

Engineered flooring is compatible with underfloor heating systems, offering clients more options when it comes to heating their home.

Disadvantages of Engineered Timber Flooring

Durability

While engineered timber flooring is durable, it’s not as durable as solid timber flooring. The plywood substrate isn’t as strong as hardwood and should be a consideration in high-traffic areas.

Water Resistance

It’s more susceptible to water damage and staining than other flooring options. Spills should be cleaned up immediately, and it’s not recommended for wet areas.

Longevity

Engineered timber boards typically have a shorter lifespan than solid timber floors. Due to the thinner veneer, they can only be sanded back once or twice. If installed as a floating floor, it cannot be sanded and polished.

Underfoot

When installed as a floating floor, engineered timber can sometimes sound hollow underfoot. Consider direct stick as an alternate installation option to avoid this.

Manufacturing

The performance of engineered timber flooring depends heavily on manufacturing quality. Poorly made products can suffer from delamination or excessive movement. Source your engineered flooring from a reputable supplier such as Bowens.

Bowens Timber Flooring Range

Bowens supplies a wide selection of engineered timber flooring, ideal for any project. Find our selection of flooring online or in-store. or feel free to make an appointment at our Circa Studio to touch and see the product before making a decision.

For information on flooring installation, read our blog “Engineered Timber Flooring Installation: Which Method Should You Use.”