Engineered Flooring VS Timber Flooring – How To Select The Right Flooring For Your House

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When thinking of domestic flooring, most people will automatically picture a solid oak or walnut floor that is sanded and varnished to perfection. There are many species of timber that are suitable for flooring, yet the high cost is enough to sway most people towards a cheaper alternative – one that won’t break the bank. Of course, if cost is not an issue, then a solid timber floor has many advantages, not least that it will outlast any other type, with perhaps the exception of stone, but for the majority of Australian homeowners, budget is a concern. In such a case, engineered flooring is the perfect solution, as it gives you both the look and the feel of solid timber, but at a reduced price.

Engineered Flooring

Engineered flooring boards comprise of multiple layers that are compressed together under extremely high pressure and with a wide range of timber grain finishes, there is bound to be something that works for you. The make-up of engineered flooring boards consists of a real hardwood outer layer, with a multiple layer inner core that will stand the test of time, and as the surface is actually real timber, you have the look and feel of a solid timber plank at a greatly reduced cost.

Professional Application

As with solid timber flooring, engineered boards should be laid by professionals, who would ensure that the correct backing is used. It matters not what substrate, as engineered flooring boards can be installed on any surface, and by dealing with an established supplier, you can be sure the flooring will be installed correctly. We all have our own favourite timber species, and such is the range of finishes, you can choose between oak, ash, walnut or oak with various shades available.

Combination Flooring

You might be planning to install solid timber flooring through most of the house, yet are reluctant to use solid timber in the kitchen and bathroom, where water is an issue. That’s where engineered flooring comes into its own and with so many finishes to choose from, you will find a perfect match for your existing solid timber floor. Engineered floor boards are completely waterproof, making them ideal for kitchens and bathrooms and should solid timber be a little out of your price range, engineered boards provide the ideal solution.

Talk to The Experts

If you would like to explore the potential of engineered flooring, an online search will put you in touch with a reputable flooring contractor, who can advise you on every aspect of flooring. Australia has many timber species that are ideal for flooring, or you might prefer an imported variety, of which there are many. Durability is always a main concern when selecting a flooring material and you’ll be happy to learn that engineered boards are every bit as tough as solid timber, without the prohibitive cost. Some interior designers say that vinyl is an affordable choice as well. 

If you would like some advice from a flooring expert, there is bound to be a company in your area and all it takes to source an established supplier is a Google search.