Hardwood is a popular flooring choice for many Edmonton homes. However, installation limitations rule it out for many. If you love the look of hardwood but don't have ideal conditions for it, there may be a better solution. Once you read all about engineered hardwood flooring, we think you'll agree!
Finding Quality in Engineered Hardwood Flooring
As with all flooring types, there are ranges of quality in engineered hardwood flooring and if you try to go too cheap, your flooring may not be able to handle your Edmonton lifestyle. Engineered hardwood is made up of several layers of wood forming a plywood base with a wear layer that is cut from hardwood. The first thing to look for if you want a quality engineered hardwood floor is that the wear layer is real wood. Next, you want to look at the construction of the base layers. Some engineered hardwood flooring has a three-layer soft plywood base which will not be as durable or moisture resistant as harder and higher quality plywood. The stability of engineered hardwood may lend itself well to pair with in-floor heating, but if this how you plan to use it you should check with your flooring professional to be sure you buy the proper type.
Why Engineered Hardwood Might be a Better Flooring Choice
Due to the layered construction of engineered hardwood, this flooring type is more durable than natural hardwood and is less prone to buckling and warping through drastic temperature changes or areas prone to dryness or some humidity, such as basements. However, engineered hardwood is not moisture-proof and it is important to review the manufacturer's recommendations to ensure you're within their. If the area you have your flooring installed is not within these guidelines, your warranty is likely to be voided.
Engineered floors have a hard-wearing finish that is factory applied before you begin your installation. This means once your floor is in, there is no wait time or unpleasant odours while the flooring finish cures. You can enjoy your space immediately!
Maintenance is a Breeze
Due to the factory finish, maintaining engineered hardwood flooring is easy. Although there is less worry involved with this type of flooring over natural hardwood, regular cleaning and care is still important to keep your floor looking its best. For most cleanings, a good sweep or vacuuming should be done to keep abrasives like sand from remaining on the floor. A damp mopping is usually adequate for general purposes, while a wood floor cleaner might be a good idea for deeper cleaning. If spills do occur, wipe them up before drying so you don't get a water stain on your floor. While these floors are more resistant to damage from spills, it's still important to clean up as early as you can to avoid problems.
Our flooring professionals at Flooring Superstores Edmonton can help you choose the best engineered hardwood flooring for your home. Contact us today or stop in to our showroom to see the quality for yourself!