Comprehsive guide to engineered timber flooring by Imperial Flooring Australia
- Imperial Flooring Australia
- 1 day ago
- 3 min read
When it comes to creating a warm, stylish, and durable foundation for your home or commercial space, engineered timber flooring stands out as one of the best choices. At Imperial Flooring Australia, we specialise in premium engineered timber solutions that combine timeless beauty with modern practicality. Here’s your comprehensive guide to everything you need to know about engineered timber flooring.
What Is Engineered Timber Flooring?
Engineered timber flooring is made from a real hardwood top layer (known as the wear layer) bonded to multiple layers of plywood or high-density fibreboard. This multi-layered design enhances stability, making it far more resistant to warping, swelling, and environmental changes compared to solid hardwood. The result is a stunning, durable, and versatile floor perfect for Australia’s variable climate.
Product Range & Styles
At Imperial Flooring Australia, we offer a wide variety of engineered timber products to suit every project:
Thickness Options: 14mm, 15mm, and 20mm engineered oak.
Styles: Classic planks, sophisticated herringbone, and elegant chevron patterns.
Grades: AB and ABC grades are used for refined finishes, while ABCD is the most commonly sought-after grade for natural aesthetics.
Colours & Species: From neutral tones to bold timber grains, there’s a look for every design style.
Why Choose Engineered Timber?
Engineered timber flooring offers a range of benefits that make it a smart investment:
Durability & Stability: With its layered construction, it resists movement and damage in high-traffic areas.
Moisture Resistance: Up to 45% more resistant to humidity compared to solid timber.
Luxurious Aesthetic: Genuine hardwood surface delivers warmth and elegance.
Cost-Effective: More affordable than solid hardwood, with easier installation methods.
Sustainable: Uses less natural timber per plank and is sourced from responsible forests.
Versatile: Compatible with underfloor heating and suitable for residential and commercial projects alike.
Installation Methods
There are two primary ways to install engineered timber flooring:
Floating Floor
Installed over an acoustic underlay, “floating” above the subfloor.
Faster, cost-effective installation.
Best for plank-style flooring.
Direct Stick (Glue-Down)
Planks are glued directly to the subfloor with adhesives such as Bostik Ultraset HP.
Provides a solid, seamless finish.
Essential for patterned styles like herringbone and chevron.
Recommended for high-traffic or heavy-use areas.
Pro Tip: Always order 10% extra material for straight planks, and 15–20% extra for patterned flooring to account for cutting waste.
Subfloor Preparation
A smooth and level subfloor is essential for a professional finish:
Ensure the surface is clean, dry, and even.
Use self-levelling compounds and grinding for corrections.
For floating floors, lay an acoustic underlay for sound absorption and comfort.
Ground level slabs, ensure a moisture barrier is Installed before direct stick engineered flooring
Maintenance & Care
Engineered timber floors are easy to maintain with the right care:
Sweep or vacuum regularly to remove dust and grit.
Clean with recommended timber-safe products—avoid harsh chemicals or excess water.
Protect with furniture pads and clean spills promptly.
Refinish thicker wear layers (20mm) up to three times to extend lifespan.
Pros & Cons at a Glance
Pros:
Real hardwood look and feel.
Enhanced stability and durability.
Eco-friendly and cost-effective.
Versatile installation options.
Cons:
Higher upfront cost than laminate or hybrid flooring.
Requires consistent maintenance to preserve its beauty.
Experience the Imperial Flooring Difference
At Imperial Flooring Australia, we make it easy to choose your perfect floor:
Free Flooring Sample Service – Order up to 5 free samples online.
Australia-Wide Delivery – Fast, reliable shipping direct to your door.
Supply & Installation – Choose from supply-only or full service installation packages.
Expert Advice – Our Wollongong Flooring showroom team is here to guide you every step of the way.
Final Thoughts
Engineered timber flooring delivers the perfect balance of style, strength, and practicality. Whether you’re upgrading your family home or designing a commercial project, Imperial Flooring Australia has the quality products and expertise to bring your vision to life.
Discover the beauty of engineered timber flooring today – browse our collections or visit our showroom to see the difference in person.
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