Choose engineered timber flooring by checking five things: the thickness of the real timber layer, the core, the species, the finish and the board size. The timber layer matters most. It decides how long the floor lasts and whether it can be sanded later.
What is engineered timber flooring?
Engineered timber is a real timber surface bonded to a layered core. It looks and feels like solid timber because the part you walk on is solid timber. The core keeps the board stable when the temperature and humidity change. That is why it can go straight onto a concrete slab, over plywood, or float over an acoustic underlay in an apartment.
1. Thickness of the timber layer
A thicker timber layer lasts longer. As a guide, a layer of around 3mm or more can usually be sanded and refinished at least once. Thinner layers can be recoated, but not heavily sanded. Ask for this number before you compare prices.
2. The core
Most quality boards have a plywood or multi layer hardwood core. A good core keeps wide boards flat and stops gaps opening between seasons. Ask what the core is made of and how the boards join.
3. Species and colour
European oak is the most popular choice. It takes stain well, so it comes in a wide range of colours. Australian species such as spotted gum and blackbutt are harder and have more natural colour variation. We supply European oak, spotted gum, blackbutt and the Quick-Step engineered range.
4. Finish
A matt lacquer finish is the easiest to live with. It needs little care and hides marks well. An oiled finish looks very natural but needs re-oiling from time to time. A brushed texture helps hide scratches from pets and furniture.
5. Board size and layout
Wide, long boards suit open plan rooms. Herringbone suits feature areas and whole living zones. Both need a very flat subfloor, so allow for preparation in your budget.
Where engineered timber works, and where it does not
It suits living areas, hallways, bedrooms and kitchens, as long as spills get wiped up. We do not recommend timber in bathrooms, laundries or anywhere the floor gets wet often. For those rooms, look at vinyl planks.
What does it cost?
As a guide, engineered timber costs $110 to $220 per square metre, supplied and installed. See our Melbourne flooring cost guide for the full breakdown, or read more about our engineered timber flooring service.
Common questions
Is engineered timber real wood?
Yes. The surface is real timber, such as oak, spotted gum or blackbutt. Only the core underneath is layered, which makes the board more stable than solid timber.
Can engineered timber be sanded and refinished?
It depends on the thickness of the timber layer. Thicker layers can usually be sanded at least once. Thinner layers can be recoated to freshen the surface.
Can engineered timber go over a concrete slab?
Yes. It can be glued direct to the slab or floated over underlay. The slab should be moisture tested first so the floor and the warranty are protected.
Want a fixed price for your rooms? Book a free measure and quote or call 0422 635 797. We work across Bayside and South East Melbourne.