Engineered wood flooring has become a popular choice for homeowners who want the look of hardwood flooring without the high cost or maintenance. With so many options available, it can be challenging to determine the best engineered wood flooring for your home. In this article, we will discuss the top features to consider when choosing the best engineered wood flooring.
- Wood Species The first feature to consider when choosing the best engineered wood flooring is the type of wood species. Different wood species have different characteristics such as hardness, grain pattern, and color. Oak, maple, and hickory are popular choices for engineered wood flooring due to their durability and versatility. Walnut and cherry are also great choices for their unique color and grain patterns.
- Plywood Layers Another essential feature to consider when choosing the best engineered wood flooring is the plywood layers. The more layers of plywood, the more stable the flooring will be. A stable floor is essential to prevent gaps, buckling, or warping. The best-engineered wood flooring has at least five layers of plywood, which provides excellent stability and durability.
- Top Layer Thickness The top layer of engineered wood flooring is the layer that you see and walk on. The thickness of the top layer is a critical factor in determining the durability and lifespan of the flooring. The thicker the top layer, the more times the floor can be sanded and refinished. The best-engineered wood flooring has a top layer thickness of at least 2mm, which allows for several sandings and refinishings over the lifespan of the floor.
- Finish The finish is another crucial feature to consider when choosing the best-engineered wood flooring. The finish protects the top layer of the flooring from wear and tear, spills, and stains. Some engineered wood flooring comes pre-finished, which means it is ready to install and requires no additional finishing. Other flooring requires finishing after installation. The best-engineered wood flooring has a finish that is durable and easy to maintain.
- Price Price is always an essential factor to consider when choosing the best-engineered wood flooring. The cost of engineered wood flooring varies depending on the wood species, ply layers, top layer thickness, and finish. It is essential to choose a flooring that fits within your budget, but also meets all the other features you desire.
In conclusion, the best-engineered wood flooring is one that is durable, stable, and easy to maintain. The wood species, ply layers, top layer thickness, finish, and price are all essential features to consider when choosing the best-engineered wood flooring for your home.