Hardwood Flooring, All You Need To Know Before Your Project

Introduction

Engineered hardwood flooring has rapidly gained popularity among homeowners for its balance of natural beauty, superior stability, and adaptable installation options. Unlike solid hardwood, engineered hardwood features a multi-layer construction—real wood veneer over a plywood or high-density fiberboard (HDF) core—which enhances resistance to moisture and temperature fluctuations.

This comprehensive guide by SAMandREZ covers everything you need to know:

• Types of engineered hardwood
• Popular colours and design trends
• Step-by-step installation guide
• Price comparison with other flooring types
• Waterproof and scratch-resistant features
• Lifespan and replacement tips
• Our flooring services in Guelph, Kitchener, Waterloo, and Cambridge

By the end, you’ll feel confident in choosing the perfect engineered hardwood flooring for your space.

1. Types of Engineered Hardwood Flooring

Engineered hardwood flooring is defined by its construction and the type of wood species used.

A. By Construction Type

3-Ply Engineered Hardwood

• Budget-friendly option
• Suitable for light to moderate traffic
• Can be refinished once or twice

5 to 7-Ply Engineered Hardwood

• Offers greater structural stability
• Withstands high-traffic areas
• Can be refinished 2–3 times

Multi-Layer Engineered Hardwood

• Maximum durability and stability
• Ideal for basements and high-moisture areas
• Wear layer up to 6mm thick, allows multiple refinishes
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B. By Wood Species

• Oak (White & Red): Timeless appeal, excellent durability
• Maple: Smooth, contemporary look with subtle grain
• Walnut: Deep, rich hues perfect for luxury interiors
• Hickory: Rustic and extremely hard
• Exotic Woods (Acacia, Brazilian Cherry): Unique grain and vibrant character

2. Popular Colours & Flooring Trends for 2024

Today’s engineered hardwood comes in a variety of shades and finishes to suit any style.

Trending Colours:

• Light & Natural: Scandinavian-style white oak, light greys, and blondes
• Warm Medium Browns: Timeless tones that complement most interiors
• Dark & Smoky: Espresso, charcoal, and walnut for a dramatic look
• Wire-Brushed & Distressed: Stylish and scratch-concealing textures

Tips for Small Spaces:

• Opt for light-coloured planks to visually expand the room
• Wide planks (7″+) add to the sense of spaciousness

3. Engineered Hardwood Installation Guide

Engineered hardwood is DIY-friendly and offers multiple installation methods.

A. Common Installation Methods

• Floating Floor (Click-Lock): No glue or nails; fast and simple
• Glue-Down: Great for concrete subfloors; highly stable
• Nail-Down: Ideal for wooden subfloors; requires tools and expertise

B. Step-by-Step Process

1. Acclimate Flooring: Leave planks in the room for 48–72 hours
2. Prepare Subfloor: Ensure it is clean, level, and dry
3. Lay Underlayment: Especially important for floating floors
4. Install Planks: Leave room for expansion gaps
5. Add Trims & Transitions: Finish with professional detailing

Pro Tip: A professional installation ensures flawless alignment and long-term performance.

4. Price Comparison: Engineered Hardwood vs. Other Flooring Options

Best Value: Engineered hardwood balances affordability, resilience, and aesthetic appeal.

5. Waterproof & Moisture-Resistance Performance

Traditional engineered hardwood is not completely waterproof, but it is more moisture-resistant than solid hardwood.

• New technology: Waterproof variants with polymer cores

• Best usage areas: Living rooms, bedrooms, hallways

• Avoid in: Bathrooms and laundry rooms (unless using waterproof models)

6. Scratch Resistance & Finish Options

Scratch resistance largely depends on the surface finish:

• UV-Cured Aluminum Oxide: Most durable

• Oil-Based Finishes: Softer, easily repairable

Top scratch-resistant choices: Oak, hickory, and wire-brushed finishes

7. Lifespan & Replacement Guidelines

• Average Lifespan: 20–30 years

• Refinishing Capability: 1–3 times depending on wear layer thickness

Replace when you notice:

• Deep scratches or gouges

• Water damage or warping

• Severe fading or discolouration

8. SAMandREZ Engineered Hardwood Services

We proudly serve Guelph, Kitchener, Waterloo, and Cambridge with full-service flooring solutions tailored to your needs.

Our Services Include:

• Free In-Home Consultations: Personalized design guidance

• Professional Installation: Fast, clean, and warranty-backed

• Repairs & Refinishing: Extend your floor’s lifespan affordably

• Waterproof Hardwood Options: Smart choices for moisture-prone areas

Why Homeowners Trust SAMandREZ:

• ✅ Local Experts with years of experience

• ✅ Top-Quality Materials from leading brands

• ✅ Transparent Pricing and excellent customer care

📞 Call now or request a free quote online!

Final Thoughts

Engineered hardwood flooring is an exceptional choice for anyone seeking stylish, durable, and versatile flooring. Whether you’re upgrading a small condo or remodeling your forever home, engineered hardwood delivers timeless beauty with modern performance.

Ready to transform your floors? Let SAMandREZ help you every step of the way—from selection to installation. Reach out today and bring your dream flooring to life!

Need help choosing the right floor? Contact us now for a personalized recommendation.