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Guide To Engineered Wood Flooring by Oak Flooring Direct
The Ultimate Guide to Engineered Wood Flooring (by Oak Flooring Direct, Bristol)
What is Engineered Wood Flooring?
Engineered wood flooring is a premium alternative to solid hardwood flooring, combining natural beauty with modern practicality. Each plank is made up of layers:
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Top Layer (Wear Layer): A genuine hardwood veneer (commonly oak, walnut, or maple).
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Core Layers: Multiple cross-bonded layers of plywood or HDF (high-density fibreboard) for strength and stability.
This layered construction means engineered flooring is more resistant to warping, moisture, and temperature changes than solid wood — making it ideal for UK homes and especially popular in Bristol.
Why Choose Engineered Wood Flooring?
Engineered flooring gives you the warmth and character of real wood while offering extra benefits:
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✅ Perfect for Underfloor Heating – stable and safe to use with both water and electric systems.
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✅ Moisture-Resistant – less movement than solid oak, suitable for kitchens, conservatories, and basements.
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✅ Sustainable – uses less slow-growing hardwood compared to solid boards.
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✅ Durable & Long-Lasting – many options last 25–40 years with proper care.
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✅ Stylish Choices – wide planks, herringbone, chevron, rustic, or contemporary finishes.
Engineered vs Solid Wood Flooring: Key Differences
Feature Engineered Wood Flooring Solid Wood Flooring Construction Hardwood top layer + multi-ply core Single piece of timber Stability Highly stable, minimal movement Expands/contracts with climate Underfloor Heating ✅ Compatible ❌ Not recommended Installation Floating, glued, or nailed Typically nailed or glued Refinishing 1–3 times (depending on wear layer) Multiple times Cost Cost-effective, wide range Usually higher
| Feature | Engineered Wood Flooring | Solid Wood Flooring |
|---|---|---|
| Construction | Hardwood top layer + multi-ply core | Single piece of timber |
| Stability | Highly stable, minimal movement | Expands/contracts with climate |
| Underfloor Heating | ✅ Compatible | ❌ Not recommended |
| Installation | Floating, glued, or nailed | Typically nailed or glued |
| Refinishing | 1–3 times (depending on wear layer) | Multiple times |
| Cost | Cost-effective, wide range | Usually higher |