In the realm of engineered wood flooring, few variants can match the durability offered by 20mm engineered wood flooring. This thickness stands out as a robust option, rivaling its counterpart, solid wood flooring, which often comes at a significantly higher cost. Opting for 20mm engineered wood flooring is particularly advantageous for high-traffic areas in both residential and commercial settings. To make an informed decision for your project, it’s crucial to understand the unique attributes that set 20mm engineered wood flooring apart.
What’s the Composition of 20mm Engineered Wood Flooring?
Understanding the composition of 20mm engineered wood flooring is key to appreciating its value. The crowning feature of this flooring is the topmost layer, usually comprising a 5mm to 6mm thick real wood veneer. This layer can be sourced from a variety of hardwood species, including Oak, Walnut, Ash, among others.
Beneath the top layer, 20mm engineered wood flooring is typically constructed with plywood, MDF, or even softwood. The use of real wood for the surface layer imparts a natural look to the floorboards, making them virtually indistinguishable from their more expensive solid wood counterparts once installed.
Why Does Wood and Beyond Recommend 20mm Engineered Wood Flooring?
With over 15 years of experience in selling engineered wood flooring, customer satisfaction remains a top priority for us. This satisfaction often stems from providing robust and durable flooring solutions, and 20mm engineered wood flooring fits this criterion perfectly. Here are additional reasons why this particular thickness stands out:
- Incredibly Strong: The combination of a substantial overall thickness and a top real wood layer of 5mm to 6mm makes 20mm engineered wood flooring capable of withstanding heavy foot traffic, ideal for both residential and commercial applications.
- Competitively Priced: While not the cheapest option available, it offers excellent value, especially when compared to solid wood flooring. For example, a solid wood floor of similar thickness can cost around £70/m2, whereas 20mm engineered wood flooring starts at around £40/m2.
- Sand and Refinish Capabilities: A significant advantage of real wood floors (both solid and engineered) is the ability to sand and refinish them. This process involves sanding off a 1mm layer of the real wood to reveal a fresh surface, helping to repair scratches, dents, and other signs of wear. With a 5mm to 6mm real wood layer, this process can be repeated 4 to 5 times on 20mm engineered wood flooring.
- Subfloor Imperfections Handled with Ease: The thickness of 20mm engineered wood flooring means it can effectively manage subfloor imperfections. It is suitable for uneven subfloors or those with a less smooth appearance and can even be installed directly over joists. Thinner alternatives may not offer the same level of underfoot comfort in the presence of such subfloor issues.
Are There Reasons To Avoid 20mm Engineered Wood Flooring?
No flooring solution is without its limitations, and the same applies to 20mm engineered wood flooring. It may not be the ideal choice in certain situations, such as:
- Underfloor Heating Compatibility: Due to its thickness, 20mm engineered wood flooring may not be suitable for use with underfloor heating systems, as it can impede heat transmission. In such cases, thinner options, typically ranging from 16mm to 18mm with a top layer of real wood not exceeding 5mm, are recommended.
- Low to Moderate Traffic Areas: If the flooring is intended for areas with low or moderate foot traffic, thinner and more cost-effective options could suffice. At Wood and Beyond, popular choices for such applications include 14mm and 15mm engineered wood flooring, which strike a balance between cost and performance.
20mm Engineered Wood Flooring: Yes or No?
If your budget allows and you require flooring for areas subject to high traffic or commercial use, 20mm engineered wood flooring is an excellent choice. It promises durability and longevity, offering peace of mind for many years.
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FAQ
What Makes 20mm Engineered Wood Flooring Unique?
20mm engineered wood flooring distinguishes itself with its robust thickness, making it highly durable and suitable for high-traffic areas. Its quality competes with solid wood flooring but at a more affordable cost, making it a preferred choice for both residential and commercial use.
What is the Structure of 20mm Engineered Wood Flooring?
This flooring type features a top layer of real wood veneer, typically 5mm to 6mm thick, sourced from various hardwoods like Oak, Walnut, or Ash. Beneath this lies a foundation of plywood, MDF, or softwood, contributing to its overall strength and natural appearance.
Why is 20mm Engineered Wood Flooring Recommended by Experts?
Professionals recommend 20mm engineered wood flooring due to its strength and durability, ideal for areas with heavy foot traffic. Its competitive pricing, compared to solid wood flooring, and the ability to sand and refinish the surface multiple times, enhance its value and longevity.
Can 20mm Engineered Wood Flooring Handle Subfloor Irregularities?
Yes, the thickness of 20mm engineered wood flooring allows it to accommodate uneven subfloors effectively. This attribute makes it versatile for installation over various subfloor conditions, including directly over joists, without compromising underfoot comfort.
Are There Situations Where 20mm Engineered Wood Flooring Isn’t Advisable?
20mm engineered wood flooring may not be the best option for use with underfloor heating systems due to its thickness. Additionally, for areas with low to moderate foot traffic, thinner and more cost-effective engineered wood flooring options might be more suitable.