The choice of flooring is integral to the feel of a home. Among the plethora of options available, engineered wood flooring is rapidly gaining traction. This is, in large part, due to its balanced melding of aesthetic allure and functional reliability.
What Is Engineered Wood Flooring?
Engineered wood flooring is a revelation for those who yearn for the charm of real wood but are also aware of the practical constraints that come with solid wood. The multi-layered structure of engineered wood consists of a top layer of genuine wood, which captures the eye. Supporting this are layers of ply, MDF, and softwood that provide stability and sturdiness. This construction not only guarantees beauty but also ensures longevity, especially in special conditions like basements or areas with underfloor heating.
Engineered Wood Flooring Colour Options

Engineered Wood Flooring In Black Colour
Diving into the colour spectrum, one can truly appreciate the versatility of engineered wood flooring. The possibilities are numerous:
- Natural – The classic appeal of wood is captured perfectly with the natural shades. From lighter hues reminiscent of birch or ash to richer tones like oak, the range is astonishing.
- Grey – For homes aiming for a contemporary touch, grey offers a sophisticated, modern look.
- White – Perfect for coastal homes or spaces where one wants to evoke calmness, white is both refreshing and serene.
- Black – This colour isn’t just a choice; it’s a statement. Black flooring provides a stark contrast, highlighting furniture and décor.
- Smoked – For those who desire depth and a unique flair, the smoked finish provides a rich and varied tone.
- Coffee and Walnut – Both these shades are for lovers of depth and richness. The coffee oak is a luxurious choice, while walnut offers unparalleled elegance.
Engineered Wood Flooring Colour Considerations

Engineered Wood Flooring In Light Shade
While the aesthetic appeal is vital, one must also consider how a shade might affect the perceived space within a room. Darker shades tend to give rooms an intimate, cosy feel, making them ideal for personal spaces or areas where one would like to create a sense of warmth, think home office for example. Lighter tones, on the other hand, can make a room feel larger, airier, and more open. This makes them ideal for smaller spaces or rooms that aim to promote relaxation and tranquillity. For those contemplating selling their home in the near future, natural shades, due to their versatility, can enhance property value, resonating with a wider array of potential buyers.
Engineered Wood Flooring Finish Options

Engineered Wood Flooring In Lacquered Finish
The world of finishes offers a realm of choices that not only dictate the look but also the feel and longevity of the flooring:
- Brushed and Oiled – This method reveals the natural grain of the wood, making each plank a unique piece of art. The oil protects while retaining the texture.
- Brushed Unfinished – For purists, this choice celebrates wood in its most authentic form, allowing homeowners to apply their own finish if desired.
- Brushed UV Lacquered – Here, the brushing process is enhanced with a UV protective layer, making it perfect for sunlit rooms like conservatories or rooms with large windows.
- Brushed UV Oiled – A marriage of UV protection and the richness of oil.
- Brushed Wax Oiled – Offers a muted sheen while retaining the wood’s natural charm.
- Hardwax Oiled – A finish that stands up to the test of time.
- UV Lacquered – Provides robust protection against UV rays.
- UV Oiled – Merges the benefits of oil with UV protection.
- Unfinished – For those who favour the untouched beauty of wood.
Engineered Wood Flooring Finish Consideration

Engineered Wood Flooring In Light UV Treated
The debate between oiled or lacquered often boils down to where the flooring is installed. Oiled finishes, while imparting a rich texture, may require periodic re-oiling. On the other hand, lacquered finishes offer a protective shield, making them ideal for high-traffic zones like children’s play areas, lounges, or commercial spaces. UV treatments, a godsend for sunlit spaces, prevent premature fading, ensuring your flooring remains vibrant for years.
Engineered Wood Flooring Colour and Finish Combination

Engineered Wood Flooring Brushed and Black Combination
- Natural Shade in a Brushed UV Lacquered Finish – Marrying the timeless appeal of natural shades with UV protection. Perfect for dining rooms basking in sunlight.
- Grey Shade in a Brushed and Oiled Finish – A contemporary choice for the modern home. The oiled finish provides depth to the grey, making it perfect for a lounge or kitchen.
- Coffee Oak in a Brushed and Oiled Finish – Ideal for libraries or studies, this combination resonates with luxury and individuality.
Conclusion
Engineered wood flooring, with its myriad colour and finish options, offers versatility for homeowners and designers alike. Through wise choices, one can achieve a blend of beauty, durability, and practicality, ensuring their home remains a timeless masterpiece.
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FAQ
What is engineered wood flooring?
Engineered wood flooring is a type of flooring that has a multi-layered structure, comprising a top layer of genuine wood, supported by layers of ply, MDF, and softwood. This ensures both aesthetic appeal and longevity of the flooring.
What makes engineered wood flooring suitable for basements or areas with underfloor heating?
The construction of engineered wood flooring, which includes layers of ply, MDF, and softwood, provides stability and sturdiness. This makes it especially viable for special conditions like basements or areas with underfloor heating.
How can the choice of engineered wood flooring color affect the perception of space within a room?
Darker shades of engineered wood flooring can give rooms an intimate, cosy feel. In contrast, lighter tones can make a space feel more expansive, airier, and open. This understanding can guide individuals in making choices based on the desired ambiance of a room.
What are the primary considerations when choosing between oiled and lacquered finishes for engineered wood flooring?
The choice between oiled and lacquered finishes often depends on the intended location of the flooring. While oiled finishes offer a rich texture, they may necessitate periodic re-oiling. Conversely, lacquered finishes provide a protective shield, making them more suited for high-traffic areas like children’s play areas, lounges, or commercial spaces.
How do UV treatments benefit engineered wood flooring?
UV treatments, often applied as protective layers in certain finishes, help prevent premature fading of the flooring. This is particularly beneficial for spaces that receive a lot of sunlight, ensuring the flooring remains vibrant over the years.