If you're thinking about upgrading your floors, engineered hardwood flooring might have caught your eye. It looks like solid hardwood but comes with a more budget-friendly price tag and greater resistance to moisture. But how long does it actually last? Understanding the lifespan of engineered wood flooring will help you make a smart choice for your home. So, let’s dive into the factors that affect how long this flooring can stick around.
Durability and structure
Engineered hardwood floors are built to last—literally. Unlike solid hardwood, which is made from a lone piece of wood, engineered wood has a layered construction. The top layer is real wood, and beneath it, you'll find layers of plywood or fiberboard stacked in opposite directions. This gives the floor greater stability and makes it less likely to warp or swell when exposed to moisture. But the longevity of engineered wood depends on that top layer of hardwood. Thicker top layers can be sanded and refinished a few times, extending the floor’s life by years.
Average lifespan
So, what’s the ballpark lifespan of engineered hardwood flooring? On average, you can expect engineered hardwood floors to last between 20 and 30 years. However, with proper care and maintenance, some floors can stretch closer to 40 years. The exact lifespan depends on factors like the thickness of the top layer, the quality of materials used, and how much wear and tear the floor sees daily. High-traffic areas will naturally wear out faster, while engineered wood in low-traffic areas can look great for decades.
Maintenance matters
Do you want your engineered wood flooring to last? Then maintenance is key. While it’s more resilient than solid wood, engineered flooring still needs regular care. Keep it clean by sweeping or vacuuming to remove dirt and grit that can scratch the surface. Avoid soaking it with water—excessive moisture can damage even the most moisture-resistant floors over time. If your flooring has a thick enough wear layer, you can refinish it once it starts to show signs of wear, which will give it a fresh new look and extend its lifespan.
Consider the environment
Where you install your engineered hardwood flooring can also impact its longevity. Rooms with higher humidity, like kitchens or basements, may reduce the floor's lifespan compared to installing it in living rooms or bedrooms. However, engineered wood generally performs better in humid environments than solid hardwood, which makes it a great choice for many areas of the home.
Visit us for high-quality engineered hardwood floors in Wellington, FL
In the end, engineered hardwood flooring offers an impressive combination of style and durability, lasting decades with the right care and attention. Reach out to Floor Specialists for more information about how to extend the lifespan of your engineered hardwood floors or if you're looking to transform your home with new flooring. Our showroom in Wellington, FL, serves Wellington, Palm Beach Gardens, Jupiter, and Boca Raton, FL.
