Construction of Engineered Wood Floor
Engineered wood floor construction commonly consist of 2, 3 or even 5 thin layers. The top layer is a laminated unit with a thickness between ¼ – 9/16 inch. Available as both strip and plank flooring, the width will usually range between 2- ¼ and 7 inches wide. Often found in random lengths of 12 – 60 inches.
- Oak, the most common species used for engineered flooring.
- Any number of species, domestic or exotic can be used as the top or finish layer.
- With engineered wood floor construction the top ply may be a totally different wood species than that of the other plies.
- During construction each of the individual alternating plies will be stacked in the opposite direction prior to laminating together.
Construction Benefits
- Through natural forces the alternated plies pull against one another keeping them dimensionally stable.
- This construction becomes far less effected by moisture than a 3/4″ solid wood floor.
- Greater dimensional stability and resistance to moisture allows for use in more areas.
- Engineered wood floors may be installed over concrete slabs and below ground level as long as the concrete slab is dry and clean.
While there are many benefits to engineered wood floors, they are not immune to issues. More common issues include edge chipping and splintering, cupping and buckling, floor squeaks and the peeling of finish.
If you have a flooring issue you may wish to contact an independent, certified flooring inspector such as The Weinheimer Group, a company that provides service to clients in the states of Oregon and Washington. Schedule Inspection
Hardwood Floors Magazine has an excellent article on engineered wood flooring titled, Engineered 101: Understand the Fundamentals of Engineered Wood Flooring.