What is The Difference Between Solid and Engineered Flooring?

Solid timber flooring is 100% hardwood from the top to the base, meaning that the plank is solid wood all the way through.

On the other hand, engineered timber flooring is made up of a 3-6mm top layer of solid hardwood, which is glued to an engineered base of layered ply or birch. The mm's top layer is dependent on the board width and can vary between brands.

What Are The Benefits of Engineered Flooring?

More Stable
Due to the layered construction of the engineered core, it has a higher resistance to moisture levels and greater stability against environmental changes, making it less likely than solid flooring to shrink or cup. 
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More Environmentally Conscious
The reduced amount of solid hardwood that is used per board, allows for a wider board cover without compromising on an earth conscious approach in using precious resources.
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Faster to Install 
Being engineered and machined, means installation and finishing can often be faster than solid flooring.

Compatible with Underfloor Heating 
Suitable to be laid with underfloor heating or cooling systems due to the engineered ply layer.

Product Warranty
Most engineered flooring comes with a product warranty, however, solid flooring does not come with a product warranty as it is a natural product.

Will I Get More Sands From Solid or Engineered Flooring? 
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The tongue and groove joint connects together when the flooring is laid. The re-sandable part of solid flooring is measured from the top surface of the flooring to the top of the tongue and groove. This is the same with engineered flooring.

Whether you are sanding solid or engineered flooring, you can only sand down to the tongue and groove joint. The thicker the hardwood layer on your engineered board, the more re-sands you will get. However, bear in mind that the thicker your top layer, the higher the cost.

Can Anyone Install My Engineered Flooring? 
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​We recommend that a qualified flooring installer lay your flooring for you.

Engineered European Oak

Engineered French Oak

What's The Difference Between European Oak and French Oak Flooring? 
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This refers to the source of the timber as well as where the engineered flooring has been produced.

French Oak flooring is 100% Made in Italy from French Oak. The engineered core is made from marine grade Russian Birch which is sourced from sustainable forests. This flooring product is formaldehyde and solvent free, and has been cultivated from Radiation free zones, making it a very healthy choice for flooring in your home.


Have more questions? Visit our showroom in Rosedale, Auckland or send us an email!