Engineered Hardwoods Buying Guide
Engineered Wood Buying Guide
What to Know Before You Shop
Engineered wood flooring is a smart, stylish choice for anyone who wants the timeless look of hardwood with added durability and flexibility. Made from layers of real wood and high-performance materials, engineered wood offers the beauty of solid hardwood while resisting expansion and contraction from humidity. It’s a popular option for both new builds and remodeling projects, and it’s especially ideal for homes in changing climates like North Carolina’s. This guide will help you understand what to look for, what to ask for, and how to choose the best engineered flooring for your space.
Engineered wood is built in layers. The top layer, known as the wear layer or veneer, is made of real hardwood and determines the floor’s overall appearance. This layer can range from 1.2mm to 6mm thick, and the thicker it is, the more times the floor can be sanded and refinished over its lifetime. Beneath the veneer, multiple layers of plywood or high-density fiberboard (HDF) are stacked in a cross-grain pattern for added strength and stability. This layered construction reduces movement from humidity and makes engineered wood suitable for areas where solid hardwood might not perform well—like basements or over concrete slabs.
When shopping for engineered wood, consider your lifestyle and where the flooring will be installed. In high-traffic areas or homes with pets, you’ll want a thicker wear layer and a strong factory finish like aluminum oxide to protect against scratches. Ask about plank widths and lengths, which vary by brand and can greatly affect the look of your space. Wide planks offer a modern, open feel, while narrower planks tend to look more traditional. Also, check whether the wood species used on the surface matches the style you want—oak, hickory, maple, and walnut are common choices with distinct grain patterns and tones.
Another key factor is the installation method. Some engineered wood floors feature tongue-and-groove systems for glue or nail-down installations, while others offer click-lock floating options that don’t require adhesives. If you're working with a professional installer, they’ll guide you through what works best for your subfloor and layout. If you’re going the DIY route, floating floors can save time and hassle. Don’t forget to ask about warranties, moisture resistance, and whether the product is approved for use over radiant heating systems if that applies to your home.
Finally, remember that not all engineered wood is created equal. Ask your flooring specialist about core materials, wear layer thickness, finish type, and where the product is made. Some engineered floors are more environmentally friendly or better suited to local climates. At Just Flooring, we’re here to walk you through every step—from understanding specs to picking the perfect style. Visit our showroom to compare samples, feel the quality underfoot, and get expert advice on what will work best for your home.
Whether you’re flooring a single room or your entire home, engineered wood offers the warmth and character of real hardwood with modern performance benefits. Let us help you find the right balance of durability, beauty, and budget in a floor you’ll love for years to come.