The history and evolution of engineered timber flooring

Engineered timber flooring is a relatively new type of flooring that has gained popularity in recent years. Here is a brief overview of the history and evolution of engineered timber flooring:

 

  1. Early history: The concept of engineered wood dates back to the 19th century, when it was first used in the construction of ships and airplanes. However, it was not until the 20th century that the idea of using engineered wood for flooring began to emerge.
  2. Introduction of plywood: In the 1930s, the first types of engineered wood flooring, known as plywood, were introduced. Plywood was made from thin layers of wood that were glued together in a cross-laminate configuration, which made it more stable than solid wood.
  3. Development of parquet flooring: In the 1950s and 1960s, parquet flooring, which was made from small pieces of wood arranged in a geometric pattern, became popular. Parquet flooring was often made from engineered wood, as it was more stable and easier to install than solid wood.
  4. Advancements in manufacturing: In the 1980s and 1990s, advancements in manufacturing technology led to the development of new types of engineered wood flooring, such as laminate flooring and floating wood floors. These products were made from a combination of wood and synthetic materials, which made them more affordable and easier to install than traditional wood flooring.
  5. Modern engineered timber flooring: Today, engineered timber flooring is made from layers of wood that are fused together using high-pressure techniques. This makes it more stable and durable than ever before, and it is available in a wide range of styles, colours, and finishes.

Overall, the history of engineered timber flooring has been one of continuous innovation and improvement, leading to the high-quality, versatile flooring products that are available on the market today.

The environmental benefits of engineered timber flooring

Engineered timber flooring can be a more environmentally-friendly flooring option compared to some other types of flooring. Here are some of the environmental benefits of choosing engineered timber flooring for your home:

 

  1. Sustainable sourcing: Many engineered timber flooring products are made from wood that is sourced from sustainably-managed forests, which helps to preserve natural forests and promote responsible forestry practices.
  2. Recycled materials: Some engineered timber flooring products are made from recycled materials, such as sawdust or recycled wood fibers, which reduces waste and conserves resources.
  3. Long lifespan: Engineered timber flooring is a durable and long-lasting flooring option, which means it can be used for many years before needing to be replaced. This reduces the amount of flooring material that needs to be produced, transported, and disposed of over time.
  4. Low VOC emissions: Many engineered timber flooring products have low volatile organic compound (VOC) emissions, which means they release fewer harmful chemicals into the air when installed. This can improve indoor air quality and contribute to a healthier home environment.
  5. Can be recycled: When it comes time to replace your engineered timber flooring, the wood can be recycled or repurposed, further reducing its environmental impact.

In summary, choosing engineered timber flooring for your home can offer a range of environmental benefits, including sustainable sourcing, the use of recycled materials, a long lifespan, low VOC emissions, and the ability to be recycled.

At Vienna Woods we committed to continually improving our commitment to sustainability. This is an ever evolving promise to source and work with suppliers who are committed to developing and delivering more sustainable products. We are proud to share some of the certificates our products have received as a part of this process.

The different finishes available for engineered timber flooring

One of the great things about engineered timber flooring is the variety of finishes available, which can help you achieve the desired look and feel for your home. Here are some of the different finishes available for engineered timber flooring:

 

  1. Matte finish: A matte finish has a smooth, non-reflective surface that gives the flooring a more natural, understated look. It is a good choice for areas with lower traffic or for homeowners who want a more subdued look.
  2. Satin finish: A satin finish has a slightly glossy appearance that adds a touch of shine to the flooring. It is a good choice for areas with moderate traffic, as it is more resistant to scratches and scuffs than a matte finish.
  3. Gloss finish: A gloss finish has a highly reflective surface that gives the flooring a shiny, polished appearance. It is a good choice for formal or elegant spaces, but may show scratches and scuffs more easily than other finishes.
  4. Hand-scraped finish: A hand-scraped finish is achieved by manually scraping the surface of the wood to give it a distressed, rustic appearance. It is a good choice for homes with a traditional or antique look.
  5. Wire-brushed finish: A wire-brushed finish is achieved by running a wire brush over the surface of the wood to create a textured, rough appearance. It is a good choice for a more rustic or casual look.
  6. Distressed finish: A distressed finish is achieved by creating artificial imperfections, such as dents or scratches, in the surface of the wood. It is a good choice for a shabby chic or vintage look.

By considering the different finishes available for engineered timber flooring, you can find a product that fits the style and aesthetic of your home.

The benefits of European-made engineered timber flooring

European-made engineered timber flooring is known for its high quality and attention to detail. Here are some of the benefits of choosing European-made engineered timber flooring for your home:

 

  1. Superior craftsmanship: European manufacturers are known for their attention to detail and commitment to producing high-quality products. This is reflected in the craftsmanship of European-made engineered timber flooring, which is often superior to products made in other parts of the world.
  2. Strict manufacturing standards: European countries have strict manufacturing standards in place, which ensure that products are made to a high level of quality and safety. This is particularly important when it comes to flooring, as it is an integral part of your home and needs to be durable and long-lasting.
  3. Wide range of styles: European manufacturers offer a wide range of styles and finishes for engineered timber flooring, allowing you to choose a product that fits the look and feel of your home.
  4. Sustainable sourcing: Many European manufacturers source their wood from sustainably-managed forests, making their products more environmentally-friendly. You can read more about our product sustainability here.
  5. Long warranty periods: European-made engineered timber flooring often comes with longer warranty periods, giving you added peace of mind and protection against defects or issues with the flooring.  Check out our product warranties below.

In summary, choosing European-made engineered timber flooring for your home offers superior craftsmanship, strict manufacturing standards, a wide range of styles, sustainable sourcing, and long warranty periods. All of these factors contribute to the overall quality and value of the product.

Our Product Warranties

 

 

How to choose the right colour and style of engineered timber flooring for your home

Choosing the right colour and style of engineered timber flooring for your home can be a big decision, as it will have a significant impact on the look and feel of your space. Here are some tips to help you choose the right colour and style of engineered timber flooring for your home:

 

  1. Consider the style of your home: The colour and style of your engineered timber flooring should complement the overall style of your home. For example, a rustic, hand-scraped finish may be a good choice for a traditional home, while a glossy, modern finish may be better suited to a contemporary home.
  2. Think about the size of your space: The colour and style of your engineered timber flooring can also impact the perceived size of your space. For example, light-coloured flooring can make a small space feel larger and airier, while dark-coloured flooring can make a large space feel cosier.
  3. Consider the lighting in your home: The lighting in your home can also affect the appearance of your engineered timber flooring. For example, a flooring colour that looks warm and golden in natural light may appear orange or yellow under artificial light.
  4. Test out samples: Before making a decision, it is a good idea to test out a few different colour and style samples in your home. This will allow you to see how the flooring looks in your space and help you make an informed decision.
  5. Get a professional opinion: If you are still unsure about which colour and style of engineered timber flooring is right for your home, consider consulting with a professional designer or flooring specialist. They can offer valuable advice and guidance based on your specific needs and preferences.

By following these tips, you can find the perfect colour and style of engineered timber flooring for your home.

Engineered timber flooring vs solid wood: which is right for you?

When it comes to choosing wood flooring for your home, you may be wondering whether to go with solid wood or engineered timber. Both options have their pros and cons, and the right choice for you will depend on your specific needs and preferences. Here are some factors to consider when deciding between engineered timber flooring and solid wood:

  1. Stability: Engineered timber flooring is made from layers of wood that are fused together, making it more stable than solid wood. This means it is less prone to expanding and contracting with changes in temperature and humidity, making it a good choice for homes in areas with fluctuating weather conditions. This is especially beneficial for homes based in Auckland where the temperatures and humidity levels can fluctuate greatly.
  2. Durability: Solid wood is a durable flooring option, but it can be prone to scratches, dents, and other types of damage. Engineered timber flooring is also durable, but it is typically more resistant to wear and tear than solid wood.
  3. Installation: Solid wood flooring must be nailed or glued to a subfloor, which can be a more labor-intensive and time-consuming process. Engineered timber flooring can often be installed using a floating method, which means it can be laid on top of an existing floor without the need for glue or nails.
  4. Cost: Solid wood flooring can be more expensive than engineered timber flooring, especially if you choose a high-quality wood species. However, the lifespan of solid wood flooring is generally longer than that of engineered timber, which means it may be a more cost-effective choice in the long run.
  5. Appearance: Both solid wood and engineered timber flooring can have a beautiful, natural appearance.

In summary, both solid wood and engineered timber flooring have their own unique benefits and drawbacks. To determine which is the right choice for you, consider factors such as stability, durability, installation, cost, and appearance.