Engineered VS Solid Timber Flooring - What's the Difference?
25 Nov 2021
There are two main types of timber flooring on the market today - traditional solid timber planks, and the newer engineered timber planks. Understanding the difference between the two can save you both money and time, as well as to prevent possible headaches down the line.
Check out the video to gain an understanding of what engineered timber actually is and how it differs from solid timber flooring.
Engineered VS Solid Timber Flooring
The two main types of timber flooring on the market today are your traditional solid timber planks and the newer engineered timber flooring.
Below is a video (or scroll down to read) we've put together to cover the main differences between engineered and solid in order to help you understand which will suit your project needs best.
What is Engineered Timber Flooring?
"Engineered" refers to the method of construction of the timber flooring plank. An engineered timber plank consists of more than one layer as opposed to solid timber which is one single layer, or one single solid plank of wood.
You can read more, or watch a video, about what engineered timber flooring actually is here.
Benefits VS ISSUES
A common issue faced by traditional solid timber flooring, particularly in the volatile Australian climate, is that it can be very prone to issues such as cupping, warping, and bowing. These issues can easily lead to an uneven, squeaky and problematic floor.
To tackle these issues, engineered timber flooring involves glueing layers of timber together with each of the layer's grain running in a different direction, providing more stability, making it less susceptible to cupping, bowing, and warping. Choosing engineered timber flooring therefore results in a lower likelihood of problems down the line.
VERSATILITY
Engineered timber flooring is incredibly versatile in its ability to be used successfully and effectively in many different applications. It can be seamlessly incorporated into a range of design styles and environments with stunning results.
Engineered timber is well known for the beautiful flooring it creates, however, the majority of engineered flooring can also be used just as stunningly on ceilings, doors, tables, walls, stairs and other cabinetry and joinery applications. Get creative!
BUDGET
Engineered timber flooring is a nowadays a more affordable option than solid timber flooring. Advancements in technology and ever increasing demand has lead to a reduction in overall production costs which is passed on to the buyer.
Cost of install is also reduced with engineered timber due to the product taking less time and effort to install than solid timber flooring. This makes engineered timber flooring the more budget-friendly option and perfect for small through to large-scale projects.
Installation
The installation of engineered timber flooring is quicker and simpler, as unlike solid timber flooring, engineered planks are available pre-finished. This reduces installation time and cost, as lacquer or oil does not need to be applied on-site.
Engineered timber flooring is available with a tongue and groove or a click system profile install system, which allows for fast and easy install. Both tongue and groove or click-system profiles allow for glued down or floating installation methods, however conditions do apply - always check with your consultant to ensure your selected product is suitable for your intended install method and application.
Solid timber flooring may only be installed using a nail down method and needs to be sanded and finished on the site after install.
Availability & RANGE
Engineer timber flooring is available in a large and comprehensive range of colours, sizes, patterns and finishes. Due to limitations with production, solid timber just simply cannot match the variety of options that engineered timber delivers. For ultimate project flexibility, an engineered board is the way to go!
Under Floor Heating
The majority of engineered timber flooring products are able to be fitted over underfloor heating. Conditions do apply, so always check with your consultant to make sure your selected product is suitable before purchase.
Solid timber flooring is too susceptible to atmospheric changes to be able to be installed over underfloor heating.
Sustainability
Timber in general is a great eco-friendly choice when sourced from responsibly managed forests. Choosing an engineered timber construction enables many more planks to be produced from a single tree, meaning less wastage, and better use of slow growing timbers than with solid timber planks, that require more trees in order to produce the same amount of planks.
Warranties & Peace of Mind
Engineered, unlike solid timber flooring, comes with a backing of a warranty. Warranties vary from product to product as well as for commercial and residential applications. All warranties are subject to terms and conditions so it is important to always check with your consultant if you have any questions or concerns about warranties at all.
Ready to explore the wonderful world of ENGINEERED wood flooring?
Engineered timber flooring is now the most common type of wood flooring used globally. It is more stable, lower in purchase and install cost, quicker and easier to install, and available in a larger range of sizes, colours, and finishes.
If you would like further help or have any questions about timber flooring - engineered or solid - book a complimentary interior design consultation with Simone, jump on our LiveChat on our website, or get in touch and we can assist you.
Check out our latest Wood Book for help with incorporating an engineered timber floor into your home or office space, or to use the Havwoods Floor Visualiser tool to visualise any Havwoods flooring product in your space.