Engineered timber flooring is a type of flooring that is made up of multiple layers of wood. The top layer is made of real hardwood, giving it a natural and authentic look, while the bottom layers are constructed from high-quality multi layered plywood structure. This construction makes engineered timber flooring more stable and resistant to moisture and temperature changes compared to solid hardwood floors, making this type of timber perfect for Australian building projects due to our volatile climate. At Imperial Flooring Australia, we offer a wide range of hi-quality engineered timber flooring options, including different wood species, finishes, and plank sizes, providing our customers with durable and aesthetically pleasing flooring solutions for their homes or business spaces. Imperial Flooring engineered is available in plank, herringbone & chevron patterns. With a focus on quality and craftsmanship, Imperial Flooring ensures that our engineered timber flooring not only looks stunning but also stands the test of time, offering a long-lasting investment in the beauty and value of your property.
What are the key benefits of engineered timber flooring?
Engineered timber flooring offers several advantages that make it a popular choice for homeowners and businesses. Firstly, it is more affordable than solid timber flooring while still providing the same elegant and natural look. It is also more resistant to moisture and temperature changes, making it suitable for installation in areas where solid hardwood may not be recommended, such as basements or bathrooms. Additionally, engineered timber flooring is easy to install, maintain, and can be sanded and refinished multiple times, extending its lifespan. With Imperial Flooring Australia, you can expect high-quality engineered timber flooring options that not only enhance the aesthetic appeal of your space but also provide long-lasting durability and practicality.
Is it better to glue or float an engineered timber floor?
At Imperial Flooring Australia, we recommend both methods of installation for engineered timber flooring have their own benefits and considerations. Gluing the engineered timber floor involves directly attaching the planks to the subfloor using an adhesive, creating a stable and firm foundation. This method is ideal for high traffic areas and provides a permanent installation solution. However, it can be a more complex and time-consuming process, requiring the subfloor to be clean, level, and dry before installation. On the other hand, floating the engineered timber floor involves interlocking the planks over an underlayment without any adhesive or nails. This method is quicker and easier to install, making it a popular choice for DIY enthusiasts or those on a budget. It allows for some flexibility and can be installed over a wider range of subfloor conditions compared to gluing. Ultimately, the best method for installing engineered timber flooring will depend on the specific needs of your space, your budget, and your preference. We recommend consulting with our team of experts at Imperial Flooring Australia to determine the most suitable installation method for your project.
What is a wear layer (veneer) in engineered timber flooring?
The wear layer, also known as the veneer, in engineered timber flooring refers to the top layer of the flooring plank that is visible once installed. This layer is crucial in determining the durability and longevity of the flooring. At Imperial Flooring Australia, we understand the importance of a high-quality wear layer, which is why we offer engineered timber flooring with a thick and robust veneer. Our wear layers are designed to resist scratches, dents, and general wear and tear, ensuring that your flooring remains beautiful and functional for years to come. Additionally, the wear layer can also be refinished if needed, providing even greater durability and versatility for your space. With our range of engineered timber flooring options, you can trust that the wear layer will meet your specific needs and enhance the overall aesthetic of your home or business.
What are the grades of engineered timber flooring?
The most commonly sold timber grade in the Australian market is ABCD grade
AB Grade
This is the highest grade available in timber flooring. This wood is cut from the centre of the tree, and the wood from the centre is much more uniform and has far less knots & imperfections. AB grade flooring has a much lower sap content, usually no more than 5% of the board which leads to a more uniform colour across different boards. If you like an engineered timber floor with minimal feature and character this is for you.
ABC Grade
With ABC grade floors, you can expect minimal amount of natural features, such as very few and tiny knots, as well as gum veins, splits, cracks and checks. Sapwood and colour variation will be controlled to minimum, it means you can expect no or minor flaws in our ABC grade timber floors. The finish will be clear or slightly stained, with virtually no major visible flaws. ABC Grade is of the highest quality and will meet the expectations of customers who want clean and less natural inherent in the species of their floors.
ABCD Grade
This grade of timber contains more knots than both AB and ABC grade flooring. These knots can be as big as 50mm in diameter. Manufacturers often use coloured wood filler or “putty” to fill in the larger knots, which then allows for a more even finish. This putty can be either lighter or darker than the board and can look attractive in both ways, depending on personal preference. This is the floor for you if you like feature and character.
What is the construction of engineered timber flooring?
Wear Layer: The top layer of engineered timber flooring is the wear layer. It is made of real hardwood veneer, ranging from 2mm to 6mm in thickness. This layer determines the appearance and characteristics of the flooring, providing the desired wood species, grain pattern, and colour.
Core Layer: Beneath the wear layer is the core layer, which provides stability and structural integrity. It is composed of several layers of plywood, high-density fibreboard (HDF), or a combination of both. The core layer’s composition may vary depending on the manufacturer and the specific product.
Backing Layer: The bottom layer of engineered timber flooring is the backing layer. It adds further stability and acts as a balancing layer to counteract the stresses of the wear layer and core layer. The backing layer is usually made of plywood or HDF
Is engineered timber flooring pet friendly?
Yes, engineered timber flooring is a safe option for a home with pets. Engineered timber is designed to be more durable than traditional solid timber flooring with the latest technology on surface coatings. Our engineered flooring collections feature durable coatings that help reduce the risk of scratches, stains, and other issues common in pet-friendly homes.
Is engineered timber flooring child friendly?
Yes, engineered timber flooring is a excellent choice for a home with kids. Engineered timber flooring often features excellent protection on the surface, including stain resistance, scratch resistance, and more. All our engineered options feature premium surface coating.
Is engineered timber flooring suitable for kitchen areas?
Yes, engineered timber flooring is a suitable option for kitchen areas. Our range of engineered timber flooring at Imperial Flooring Australia is designed to withstand the demands of high-traffic areas such as kitchens. The engineered construction of the flooring provides increased stability and resistance to moisture, making it a durable choice for areas where spills and humidity are common. Additionally, our engineered timber flooring is easy to clean and maintain, making it a practical and stylish option for your kitchen. We recommend selecting a high-quality engineered timber flooring product and ensuring proper installation and maintenance to maximize its longevity and performance in your kitchen space.
How do I order engineered oak timber flooring samples? Follow the links below..
What glue (adhesives) do you recommend for engineered timber flooring direct stick method installation?
What underlay do you recommend for engineered timber flooring for a floating floor method installation?
Conclusion, why should you choose engineered timber flooring?
At Imperial Flooring Australia, our engineered timber flooring offers a perfect blend of aesthetics, durability, and environmental sustainability. Our engineered timber flooring is made from multiple layers of high-quality wood, bonded together with adhesives, and topped with a solid wood veneer. This construction makes it more stable and resistant to moisture and temperature changes compared to solid wood flooring. Additionally, our engineered timber flooring comes in a wide range of finishes and styles, allowing you to achieve the luxurious look of hardwood while being a more cost-effective and eco-friendly option. As a major advantage, it can be installed over concrete, providing versatility in applications. Moreover, Imperial Flooring Australia's engineered timber flooring is easy to maintain and can last for many years with proper care, making it a practical and long-term investment for your home or business.