What is hardwood flooring?
Engineered wood flooring is a double layer floor, it has designed to looks almost identical to the hardwood on the surface, but instead of a single wood plank, it’s made of a high-quality plywood core with a thin layer of hardwood flooring on top. On the other hand solid wood floor consists of a single 100% wood plank. Wood floors are popular not just because of their beauty and the range of types and designs available, but also because of their strength, sturdiness, and longevity, which may endure for decades.
Engineered wood flooring is more expensive than laminate floor but cheaper than solid. It can’t be refinished as often as solid flooring, but it can still last up to 30 years and more with proper maintenance. While engineered floor cannot be refinished, the planks can be removed and easily be replaced, ideally to those that have been installed with the click method. On the other side solid wood last up to 120 years because it can be refined as many times as it needs without losing its value. Engineered wood flooring is almost always sold prefinished and there are fewer options for colours and styles than solid.
How is hardwood flooring installed?
The engineered and solid flooring are installed with a variety of ways. The first way is to use engineered or solid wood flooring that is packaged as a series of tongue and groove boards, which can be clicked and glued together. Engineered flooring that follow the click and lock system does not need glue. This actual means that they are like pieces of a puzzle, and these methods are known as floating installation. This installation is carried out with the help of substrate, that combination provide additional reduction of moisture and sound. The second way is to use glue piece by piece and is known as glue it down method. The glue down method provide stability and durability.
How to maintain hardwood flooring?
Engineered wood flooring only needs sweeping with either a broom or a vacuum in order to stay clean. Occasionally mopping it with wood cleaner can help prevent stains and show the top layer.
The engineered isn’t completely waterproof, but it has better resistance in moisture compared to solid wood. Because plywood construction is more stable, this flooring is less susceptible to warping and swelling. It is recommended for living room and bedroom. Although Solid wood flooring could have over 100 years shelf life, and engineered wood only 30 years.
Why to choose Hardwood flooring?
| Pros | Cos |
| Easy to install | Difficult to maintain |
| Long self life | Danger of fading |
| Real wood layer | Pricey |
| Stable | |
| Moisture resistant | |
| Heat resistant | |
| Compatible with underfloor | |
| Big variety | |
| Able to be refined |
Flooring Compare
| Flooring type | installation | maintenance | Appearance | Scratch proof | Moisture proof | Family friendly | noise | Shelf life | cost |
| Laminate | Easy | Easy | Medium | Medium | low | High | Medium | Low | Low |
| Engineered | Easy | Difficult | High | Low | High | Medium | Low | High | Medium |
| Solid | Easy | Difficult | High | Low | Medium | Medium | Low | High | High |
| Vinyl | Difficult | Easy | Low | High | High | High | Low | Medium | Medium |
FAQs
Can you cut existing doors to fit new flooring?
Yes, our carpenters can cut and ease any doors if required.
Do you have to remove the skirting board?
No, in some instances we can undercut the skirting. We will be able to advise during a site visit
Can you remove and dispose of old floor coverings?
Yes, we do this as part of our site preparation work and take pride in keeping workspaces tidy. Where possible, we recycle used carpet and vinyl flooring to reduce landfill waste – a key sustainability challenge for the flooring industry.
Do you remove/replace furniture?
Yes, we can remove and replace your furniture upon request.
Can I request product samples?
Yes, we can arrange for a selection of samples to be sent to you, via our manufacturer partners. Simply contact one of our flooring experts who will be happy to help.
Alternatively, request an onsite consultation and we will bring a range of samples to you.
Which hardwood flooring manufacturers do you work with?
We work with a wide range of leading UK manufacturers and suppliers including, Atkinson & Kirby, Havwoods, Lionvest Trading Ltd, The Solid Wood Flooring Company and V4.
Can I request a quick quotation?
Yes, simply complete the details on our quotation form and one of our customer advisors will be in touch with an initial quotation.
Do you offer onsite consultations?
Yes, for many projects we are able to visit sites to provide a consultation and estimate for the project. Please request a consultation and our team will contact you.
Do you repair and renovate wooden floors?
Yes, our team is experienced in floor sanding and restoring original wooden floors.
Do you repair and restore parquet flooring?
Yes, our team is experienced in restoring parquet floors and we can suppply a range of reclaimed original parquet blocks.