Overlay Wood Flooring Explained

The wood flooring choices on the market today are complex, there’s no getting away from that. And what’s more, some would say it’s getting more complex by the day. Whether or not that’s true depends on your personal view point, but it’s a fact that with the development in production methods and increasing possibilities with regard manufacture and distribution, there really is a huge choice out there right now.

One of the things we often get asked at Wood and Beyond is what overlay wood flooring is. While there are various views on the definition, purpose and value of overlay wood flooring, in this article we aim to demystify the term and help you see where this type of product fits in your range of possible choices.

The first thing that’s worth saying about overlay wood flooring is that it’s nothing unusual, it’s just wood flooring that isn’t considered to be a structural product. That’s to say it shouldn’t be used as a floor that goes straight over beams for example. Because of this major feature, most experts agree that overlay wood flooring is first and foremost defined by its thickness. A flooring option that is constructed from boards that are thinner than standard 19mm boards, with a consensus of around a maximum of 18mm thickness, there’s no reason why this type of flooring can’t be used over existing wood floors or over concrete.

Another feature of overlay wood flooring is that it tends to come in boards that are medium width and slightly shorter than some other options. So, if you’re planning a floor to nail or glue directly to an existing sub floor, but want a broad, long board, you’re likely to struggle to find a solution within this category. But if you have a subfloor that is in sound condition and is made of either wood or concrete, for example, it could be that an overlay wood flooring solution could work perfectly for you. A slightly thinner board, when well fitted, it will still boast the same good looks as a thicker board if you choose the right product. The key to getting a great result is to make sure your sub floor is well prepared before laying your floor.

Preparing a concrete floor for overlay wood flooring

A concrete sub floor is, in many ways an ideal surface for laying an overlay wood floor. However, there are certain points you simply must respect. First and foremost, you need to make sure that the concrete is in good condition generally. What you want to avoid is lumps and bumps in the subfloor that could cause problems to your final look. Also, you need to be wary of moisture in the concrete. In order to assess the moisture levels in your subfloor you can either measure the moisture levels yourself or if you’re not confident of doing so, get the professionals in. Because moisture can be a real problem, the best advice is: if you’re in any doubt; seek help.

Preparing a wooden floor for overlay wood flooring

If your subfloor is made of planks, you need to make sure that the planks are sufficiently stable to take the weight of your new floor without causing future damage. In particular, pay attention to any planks that may be loose, cupped or bowed and deal with those before attempting to lay your new overlay wood flooring. It’s also important to remember to lay new floors perpendicular (ie. at right angles) to existing floors to ensure a good, stable end result.

So, as you can see, an overlay wood floor can be a great solution that offers you flexibility and good looks at a great price. Here are just some of the ready finished, engineered overlay wood flooring offers we currently have available:

1. If you want a rich, dark floor, this Natural Engineered Oak Coffee Brushed and UV oiled option that’s 14mm thick is a stunning solution. This warm, rich coloured flooring option is currently at way below half price and gives a stunning end result to pretty much any room in the home. Its coffee colour is a real classic that will never date and will enhance your interior no matter what style you have.
2. If you want a modern, yet at the same time classically stylish look, this Natural Engineered Oak London Grey UV oiled floor is for you. This grey coloured flooring is modern, yet not ‘in your face’ grey. This means that it will work perfectly as your home develops and evolves. Mix it with highly modern pieces now and it will fit perfectly. But even if you opt for a more traditional style later, it won’t let you down; so it really is a great investment. And again it’s on offer at just under half price.
3. If you want a white washed option, you simply can’t beat this Natural Engineered Oak London white UV oiled For anyone seeking the sunkissed, beach look, you really can’t go wrong with this stunning floor. Light and airy, you’ll feel as if you’ve been washed away to a paradise island, no matter where in the home you choose to install it.

If you’d like help to choose an overlay wood flooring solution that’s perfect for your interior, why not get in touch? We’d be delighted to help you make sure you choose the very best option for your needs and your budget.

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FAQ

1. What is overlay wood flooring?

   • Answer: Overlay wood flooring is a type of wood flooring that isn’t considered to be a structural product, meaning it shouldn’t be used as a floor that goes straight over beams. It is often defined by its thickness, usually constructed from boards that are thinner than standard 19mm boards, with a maximum of around 18mm thickness. This type of flooring can be used over existing wood floors or over concrete.

2. What are some characteristics of overlay wood flooring?

   • Answer: Overlay wood flooring tends to come in boards that are medium width and slightly shorter than some other options. They are usually thinner but can still boast the same good looks as a thicker board when well fitted and if the right product is chosen.

3. How do you prepare a concrete floor for overlay wood flooring?

   • Answer: To prepare a concrete floor for overlay wood flooring, first ensure that the concrete is in good condition, with no lumps or bumps that could cause problems to the final look. It’s also important to assess the moisture levels in the subfloor. This can be done either by measuring the moisture levels yourself or getting professionals to do it.

4. What should be considered when preparing a wooden subfloor for overlay wood flooring?

   • Answer: If your subfloor is made of planks, ensure they are sufficiently stable to take the weight of the new floor without causing future damage. Pay attention to any planks that may be loose, cupped or bowed and deal with those before attempting to lay the new overlay wood flooring. It’s also important to lay new floors perpendicular (at right angles) to existing floors to ensure a good, stable end result.

5. What are some options for engineered overlay wood flooring?

   • Answer: Some options include the Natural Engineered Oak Coffee Brushed and UV oiled option for a rich, dark floor, the Natural Engineered Oak London Grey UV oiled floor for a modern and classically stylish look, and the Natural Engineered Oak London white UV oiled option for a white washed, beach look. These options offer different aesthetics to suit a range of interiors.