Engineered Wood and Its Benefits Explained
Engineered wood flooring is one of the most popular choices for modern homes across New Zealand – combining the natural beauty of real timber with enhanced stability and long-term performance.
At The Wooden Floor Company, we specialise in high-quality engineered wood floors that are designed to perform well in everyday living environments.
This guide explains what engineered wood is, why it is such a reliable flooring option, and how it compares to other flooring types.
What Is Engineered Wood?
Engineered wood is a real timber flooring product made using a layered construction. The top layer is genuine hardwood, while the backing layers are manufactured from plywood or similar materials laid in opposing directions.
This structure significantly improves dimensional stability, helping the floor better handle changes in temperature and humidity compared with solid hardwood. As a result, engineered wood is suitable for a wider range of spaces, including apartments, kitchens, and homes with underfloor heating.
The Benefits of Engineered Wood Flooring
Greater Stability Than Solid Wood
One of the key advantages of engineered wood is its resistance to expansion and contraction. This makes it less prone to warping, cupping, or gapping, particularly in environments where moisture or temperature levels fluctuate.
Authentic Timber Appearance
Because the surface layer is real hardwood, engineered wood floors offer the same grain patterns, texture, and natural variation as solid timber. Once installed, it is very difficult to tell the difference between engineered wood and traditional hardwood flooring.
Versatile Design Options
Engineered wood is available in a wide range of board widths, finishes, and colours – from classic oak tones to contemporary matt and brushed finishes. This versatility makes it suitable for both modern and traditional interiors.
Suitable for More Areas of the Home
Engineered wood performs well in areas where solid timber may not be recommended, such as kitchens or upper levels of a home. When installed correctly, it is also compatible with many underfloor heating systems.
More Efficient Use of Timber
Engineered wood makes better use of premium hardwood resources by combining a real timber surface with a strong supporting core. This efficient construction helps reduce overall timber use while still delivering a genuine wood floor.
Engineered Wood FAQs
High-quality engineered wood floors can last 20–40 years or more, depending on wear layer thickness, usage, and maintenance.
Engineered wood is made with real timber and provides a more natural look and feel than laminate. While laminate can be more affordable, engineered wood generally lasts longer and adds more value.
Engineered wood is still real wood, so it can scratch. Choosing harder timber species and using protective finishes, rugs, and furniture pads helps reduce wear.
Check out our blog on The Most Durable Wooden Floors to learn more about wood hardness ratings.
Once installed, engineered wood and solid hardwood look almost identical, as both use genuine timber surfaces.
Yes, but only with a damp mop. Avoid excess water and use cleaning products designed specifically for wood floors.
Well-maintained hardwood and engineered wood floors are among the longest-lasting flooring options, especially when refinishing is possible.
Yes. Engineered wood is a high-quality flooring option that offers excellent stability, durability, and the look of real hardwood.
Yes. Engineered wood can be installed in kitchens provided spills are cleaned promptly and installation guidelines are followed. View our wooden flooring products suitable for use in kitchens.
Natural timber floors – including engineered wood – remain a timeless choice due to their warmth, versatility, and long-term appeal.
Yes. Regular sweeping or vacuuming, occasional damp mopping, and basic care will help preserve the surface and extend the life of the floor.
The Wooden Floor Company provide ongoing care and maintenance such as:
- Professional resealing and refinishing
- Scratch repair and surface restoration
- Product advice and cleaning solutions
- Scheduled maintenance programmes
Contact us to learn more about our floor maintenance service. Ensure your floors are protected from wear and tear, keeping them looking their best year after year.
Engineered Wood Flooring at The Wooden Floor Company
At The Wooden Floor Company, we supply premium engineered wood flooring from trusted European manufacturers, including Kährs and EuroPlank. These brands are known for their quality, durability, and refined timber finishes.
View our range of Kährs engineered wood flooring and EuroPlank engineered wood flooring to find a style that suits your home.
For best results, we also recommend professional installation. Learn more about our engineered wood floor installation services and how correct preparation and fitting help maximise the lifespan of your floor. Ongoing care is equally important – our floor maintenance and care products keep your engineered wood floors looking great for years to come.
Get Expert Advice on Engineered Wood Flooring
Choosing the right engineered wood floor makes all the difference. Our hardwood flooring experts can help you select the best option for your home and ensure it is installed and maintained correctly.
Contact The Wooden Floor Company today to explore your options and arrange a consultation.
