How to Shop for Engineered Hardwood

How to Buy Engineered Hardwood Flooring Like a Pro

Are you looking for engineered hardwood flooring in Mississauga or Toronto? Before you buy, understanding what it is all about is a good place to start.

Engineered hardwood flooring is the best alternative to traditional hardwood, which is vulnerable to changing weather conditions. It is also better for your pocketbook.

So, how do you shop for engineered hardwood flooring? Use these tips and tricks to help simplify your retail experience.

Let’s get started.

Types of Engineered Hardwood Flooring

Before you begin shopping, it is crucial to understand everything about the flooring you intend to install. So, here are the different types of bases used to make engineered flooring.

1. Plywood

This layer is made up of thin sheets of wood veneer joined together using moisture-resistant glue or another binding agent. Since it is manufactured under extremely high pressure and heat, plywood is incredibly strong.

Plywood is often used as the base of engineered hardwood planks, which makes it moisture and heat-resistant, something traditional hardwood is not.

2. Particle Board

Particle board is a flat sheet made from wood waste including sawdust, sawmill shavings and wood chips. This type of base does not support heavy traffic but is quite economical.

Always keep in mind where you plan to install your engineered hardwood flooring when buying it. Factors like the foot traffic and area of installation (such as your living room or foyer) should be kept in mind to choose the product accordingly.

3. Medium-Density Fibreboard (MDF)

Medium-density fibreboard is made using broken wood compressed into stiff sheets using high heat. MDF is usually used to make ready-made furniture, decorative wall cladding, and partitions.

4. High-Density Fibreboard(HDF)

This fibreboard is made using wood waste and wood chips. It is an extremely durable form of engineered hardwood and is typically used in cabinets and bathroom vanities. It works very well in moisture-prone areas.

Now that you know a little about engineered hardwood, let’s have a look at how to shop for it.

Shopping Tips for Engineered Hardwood Flooring

Picking the right flooring for your home can be intimidating. It should be selected as per your needs, so it’s not surprising that there is a type for every room.

Fortunately, doing a little homework can have major payoffs.

So, here are some clever (and helpful) shopping tips for the next time you visit a flooring store in Mississauga or Toronto.

1. Try Samples

Try before you buy. This is one of the smartest tricks when you are in the market for engineered hardwood flooring, or any flooring for that matter.

Remember that the flooring you buy should suit your space. Trying different samples before buying helps you understand your ideal flooring type.

Should you choose narrow or wide planks? Is dark or light-coloured flooring best? Chances are the product you liked at the flooring store may not work for your space because the store’s lighting is different from yours. So, be on the safe side and choose engineered hardwood samples and see how they look at home.

2. Get Thick Veneer

When it comes to engineered hardwood flooring, thickness plays a major role in the product’s durability. Its veneer is made of real hardwood, so choose a thicker veneer for areas most likely to see high foot traffic, like hallways, living rooms and foyers. The thicker the veneer, the more chances you have to refinish your flooring.

3. Select a High-Quality Plywood Core

As mentioned, the right plywood base can make a big difference to your floor. A high-quality plywood core enhances its durability and makes your floors more resilient to changing weather conditions. A better plywood core results in more stable and durable flooring.

4. Get More Layers

A plywood core with more layers ensures better longevity for your engineered hardwood floors. Go for three to nine layers, depending on the foot traffic the room or space receives.

If you have questions regarding your engineered hardwood flooring, ask flooring experts.

5. Invest In Reputable Brands

It really pays off to invest in reputable engineered hardwood flooring brands. These manufacturers produce top-notch products that last and perform well.

Plus, you get the added advantage of having a warranty on your flooring. Just make sure the installation is as per manufacturer guidelines or else your warranty may be void. Ask your contractor for additional information.

6. Hire Professional Installers

We can’t stress this enough, but badly-installed floors are a bad idea. Hiring professional installers will add to your budget, but the expense is worth it to guarantee their longevity. Improper or subpar installation of your engineered hardwood flooring will cost you extra to fix it.

7. Ask About Additional Features

Not every type of engineered hardwood flooring is built the same way. Each product is different so offers different advantages. Always pick flooring to suit your needs and lifestyle.

For instance, if you have an active household with children and pets, choose scratch-resistant engineered hardwood flooring. Talk to the flooring experts at the store where you are shopping so they can lead you to the right product for your space.

Engineered hardwood is an excellent flooring choice that suits both residential and commercial spaces. Given that it’s easy to maintain and stunning to look at, it’s no surprise that it’s so sought after. When buying engineered flooring in Mississauga or elsewhere, always keep budget in mind and search online for local flooring stores to understand what prices are available. Installing the right flooring can transform your space, so take time to pick the right kind. Get in touch with a reputable flooring company in your area to get started on your project.