Engineered Wood Flooring

Love the look of real timber but need floors that can handle everyday life? Engineered wood gives you the warmth and character of solid oak with added stability; less warping, easier installation and a finish that stays looking great. Here’s everything you need to know to choose confidently and keep your engineered wood floor in top shape.

 

What is engineered wood flooring?

It’s real wood, designed to perform better. You get a genuine hardwood top layer (the part you see and feel) bonded to layered backing for stability. That structure helps it resist swelling and shrinking with changes in heat and humidity, so you get the look of solid wood flooring without the typical upkeep. Many boards come with click-fit systems for quicker installation.

 

Is engineered wood suitable for kitchens and bathrooms?

Engineered wood flooring is suitable for use in kitchens and utility rooms, as long as you wipe up spills quickly and pop mats near sinks or appliances. However, it’s not ideal in areas that get regular splashes, like bathrooms and wet rooms. For a wood look in wet zones, go for wood effect tiles.

 

Can I use engineered wood with underfloor heating?

Yes, many options can be used with underfloor heating as long as you follow a few rules. Use suitable underlay or adhesive, keep the surface temperature below 27°C and bring the system up to temperature gradually. Floating click systems over compatible underlay are common but fully bonded options work too (always follow the product’s fitting guide).

 

Do I need to acclimatise the boards?

Yes. Let the packs sit in the room for around 48 to 72 hours before fitting (longer if it’s cold). Keep them flat, in their packaging and in normal room conditions. This helps prevent movement after installation.

 

What underlay should I use?

Pick one based on your needs, whether it’s for sound reduction, vapour control or underfloor heating. On concrete, a moisture barrier is a must unless you’re fully bonding with an adhesive system that already handles that.

 

Do engineered wood floors scratch easily?

Not with normal use. Most boards are pre-finished with lacquer or oil that resists scuffs from daily wear. Deeper scratches tend to come from grit or dragging furniture; use felt pads on furniture feet, mats at entrances and keep floors clean.

 

Can you mop an engineered wood floor?

Yes you can mop engineered wood flooring as long as you keep it light. Use a damp (not wet) microfibre mop and a pH-neutral wood cleaner. Mop in small sections and let the floor dry before walking on it. Avoid steam mops and standing water.

 

How often should you oil engineered wood flooring?

It depends on use and finish. Oiled floors typically need topping up every 6 to 24 months; busy areas more often, quieter spots less. It’s not about soaking the floor, just a light coat and a good buff.

 

What’s the lifespan of engineered wood?

With regular care, expect 25 to 40 years (but often more!). The wear layer thickness plays a big role:

• 4mm wear layer: Can be sanded and refinished multiple times.
• 3mm wear layer: Still durable, with options for light refreshing.

 

Why choose Victorian Plumbing for engineered wood flooring?

We make it easy to bring real wood warmth into your home, from picking the perfect finish to laying the last plank:

• Huge choice of engineered wood floors, all with that genuine hardwood feel.
• Clear specifications on thickness, fitting type and underfloor heating compatibility, so you know exactly what works in your space.
• Tile and flooring calculator to make sure you order just the right amount.
• Trade accounts available for bigger projects with exclusive bulk savings.
• Flexible finance options to help you spread the cost and start your renovation sooner.
• Rated Excellent for service, with fast, reliable delivery to keep your project on track.