Why Use Wood Plank Flooring ?

What is Engineered Wood Plank Flooring and Why Use It?

When deciding on options to install, engineered wood plank flooring is a great choice. It is not artificial, like the laminate variety that mimics real wood. It is much easier to install than traditional hardwood options. You may not need to hire a professional if you are handy with tools.

This option provides strength and durability. The top layer is an actual hard wood, about an eight inch thick. The layers underneath are plywood. This product is manufactured so the layer of plywood underneath has its grain running the opposite directions. This feature is what gives it strength.

Because it resists moisture, this option is great for kitchens and bathrooms as well, providing they do not become extremely wet. It can be installed by nailing, gluing or as a floating floor, which is something you cannot do with a hardwood product. Like its counterpart, it comes in a variety of finishes, such as oak, hickory and maple.

Bamboo products are only made using this method. If you want a sustainable choice, bamboo may be the best type for your home. It is also less expensive than the others. It can look very nice and may give your home a more unique look. All engineered options are easier on the environment, because only the top layer uses the valuable hardwood. So any type is a greener choice than the others.

One benefit of this product are that it comes pre-finished. There is no waiting time for drying, so you can walk on it immediately after installation. Though it is more costly than a laminate option, it can cost about the same or slightly more than the other hard wood option. Because it is relatively simple to install, you may be able to do it yourself. So, you will end up paying less in the long run.

Just like other wood products, it can be sanded if scratches develop later. Laminate must be replaced if it sustains damage such as nicks or scratches. It will not warp like other wood selections, so it can be placed over nearly any surface, including those with radiant floor heating systems. They use the tongue and groove system for installation, which makes the job go much more quickly.

Many home improvement and flooring businesses carry this product. You can look at various finishes and ask questions if you go to the showroom yourself, to view your options in engineered hardwood plank flooring for your home.

If you are interested in this type of flooring check out these tips on installing engineered wood plank flooring. Another good resource is solid oak flooring.

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