Engineered Hardwood Flooring
Engineered hardwood floors are generally 2,3, 5, or 7 thin sheets of wood (called veneers) that are laminated together to form a single plank. These floors range from 1/4" to 9/16" in thickness, and from 2 1/4" to 7" in width with random lengths. The top layer (called the finish layer) is cut from a variety of domestic hardwoods, as well as many exotic wood species.
In the construction of engineered Hardwood floors the wood plies are stacked on top of each other, but generally in opposite directions. This creates a floor that is dimensionally stable and far less effected by moisture than 3/4" solid Hardwood floors. Engineered Hardwood floors are the best choice for going over concrete slabs. You should be still sure excessive moisture and humidity are not present. (Note: concrete slabs must still be dry, clean and well-cured.)
Wood always wants to expand in a certain direction. In the presence of moisture solid wood planks will always expand across the width of the planks, rather than down the length of the boards. To avoid this problem, manufacturers of engineered planks place each ply in the opposite direction of each other. This is called cross-ply construction. Once the wood plies are glued together (under heat and pressure) each ply will counteract the other plies natural expansion and contraction with changes in humidity.
Characteristics to consider when choosing engineered wood flooring:
- Engineered Hardwood floors are dimensionally stable and react less to humidity changes.
- They can be installed below grade over concrete slabs.
- They can be installed over a variety of sub-floors in a variety of methods.
- They can only be sanded and refinished once or twice.
There are many varieties and styles of engineered Hardwoods. You can click on our distributor list to help you find the product that best fits your home.
Shown above is an example of Engineered Bruce flooring, glued-down over
concrete.
This product and other engineered woods are ideal for below grade installations, such as basements or over concrete.
Engineered Hardwood floors and parquets can be glued down. Solid strip Hardwood floors and plank Hardwood floors can only be nailed or stapled.
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