What is Engineered Timber Flooring?

Engineered timber flooring is a real wood floorboard made with a hardwood wear layer over a structured base designed to improve stability.

In standard engineered boards, the top layer is real oak or hardwood, while the supporting layers are constructed to reduce movement caused by normal changes in temperature and humidity. Most engineered timber flooring is prefinished, meaning it is factory coated for consistency and ready to install.

Engineered Timber vs Solid Timber Flooring

Both engineered and solid timber flooring use real wood, but they differ in construction and performance.

Solid timber is made from a single piece of hardwood and is a traditional flooring option. Engineered timber flooring is constructed in layers to improve stability and reduce movement caused by environmental changes.

Engineered flooring is also suitable for a wider range of building types, including apartments and modern constructions where solid timber flooring may not be permitted or practical.

Why Choose Engineered Oak Flooring?

Engineered oak flooring combines the natural character of oak with a structure designed for stability and everyday use.

Oak is one of the most widely used hardwoods due to its durability and distinctive grain patterns. Features such as cathedral grain, natural colour variation and a wide range of tones make oak suitable for different spaces and design styles.

When used in engineered construction, oak provides a flooring solution that performs reliably in daily living while maintaining the authentic look and feel of real timber.

What is Full Oak Engineered Flooring?

Full oak engineered flooring is a specialised construction developed by Lalegno, an internationally recognised Belgian flooring brand.

It uses a balanced three layer structure where all layers are made from oak, rather than mixed core materials. This balanced construction improves stability while maintaining the same solid feel underfoot as traditional solid timber flooring.

This design combines the stability of engineered flooring with the structure and material integrity of solid oak.

Is Engineered Timber Flooring Affected by Temperature or Humidity?

Yes. Engineered timber flooring is still affected by changes in temperature and humidity, as it is a natural timber product.

However, its construction significantly reduces movement compared to solid timber, making it more stable and suitable for modern indoor environments when properly installed.

Is Engineered Oak Flooring Suitable for Kitchens?

Yes, engineered oak flooring can be used in kitchens when properly installed.

It performs well under normal use, but like all timber flooring, it should be protected from excessive moisture. Spills should be cleaned promptly, and mats can be used in high traffic areas.

Are Timber Floors Suitable for Bathrooms?

Timber flooring is not recommended for bathrooms due to constant exposure to moisture.

Floating vs Glue Down Installation

Both floating and glue down installations are suitable depending on the subfloor and project requirements.

Glue down installation provides a more solid feel underfoot, while floating floors allow for faster installation and flexibility. The appropriate method should be selected based on site conditions.

Will Pets Damage Timber Flooring?

Pets can cause wear over time, particularly from claws. Keeping nails trimmed and using rugs in high traffic areas will help maintain the floor’s appearance.

Does Timber Flooring Affect Indoor Air Quality?

Timber flooring does not trap dust and allergens in the same way as carpet. With regular cleaning, it contributes to a cleaner indoor environment.

Does Oak Flooring Change Colour Over Time?

Yes. Natural oak will change colour over time when exposed to sunlight. This is a normal characteristic of timber.

How Much Wastage Should I Allow?

As a general guide:

• Standard plank flooring: around 10%
• Herringbone: around 15% to 20%
• Chevron: around 20%

The exact amount depends on layout and installation complexity.

Can Damaged Boards Be Replaced?

Individual boards can be replaced, particularly with floating floor installations.

For glue down floors, replacement is more complex and should be carried out by a professional.