Compare construction, appearance and installation before choosing a real wood floor.
Oakley Wood Timber ·
What is the difference?
Solid wood flooring is made from a single piece of timber. Engineered flooring has a real wood surface bonded to supporting layers. Both offer natural grain and character; engineered wood is not the same as laminate. The construction affects how a floor responds to changes in its surroundings and which installation methods are suitable.
Compare the specifications, not just the name
Look at the overall thickness, wear layer, board width, fitting system and finish. On an engineered board, the wear layer is the real wood surface. Its thickness matters if you may want to renovate the floor later. Whether a particular floor can be sanded depends on its condition, construction and manufacturer’s instructions; do not judge this by overall thickness alone.
Think about the room and installation
Ask your installer to check the subfloor, moisture conditions and proposed fitting method before you order. If you have underfloor heating, confirm compatibility for the exact product. Engineered construction is often worth considering for heated floors, but it does not make every board suitable for every system.
Make a fair price comparison
Compare prices including VAT, box coverage, delivery and the accessories required for installation. Measure the room and agree an allowance for cuts with your installer. A sample helps you assess colour and texture, while room photographs help you understand the overall effect. Natural wood varies from board to board.
