Your shopping cart
😊 Product added to cart successfully
Product removed to cart successfully
What is Engineered Wood? Definition and Benefits
6
min read
Are you planning to renovate your home and come across the term "engineered wood" in stores? Wondering how it differs from traditional hardwood and why many Quebec contractors recommend it for basements and condos? Engineered wood is gaining popularity in Quebec, especially in projects where stability and resistance to climate variations matter.
This article explains what engineered wood is and why it might suit your situation. Please note this article is for informational purposes; additional research is required according to the supplier’s recommendations.
Key points to remember
- Engineered wood combines multiple layers of wood bonded together to offer superior stability compared to solid wood.
- It better resists temperature and humidity variations typical of the Quebec climate with our dry winters and humid summers.
- You can install it in the basement, on concrete, and with a radiant floor heating system, options impossible with traditional hardwood.
- Four installation methods are available: nailed, glued, double-glued, or floating, depending on your subfloor and budget. And a small point to keep in mind: the wider the engineered wood planks, the more it is recommended to hire a certified installer, especially for 10-inch formats.
What exactly is engineered wood?
Engineered wood is a building material made of several pieces of wood bonded with adhesive, creating a product more stable than traditional solid wood. While hardwood runs through the entire thickness in a single piece, engineered wood has three layers: the base that touches the floor and provides stability, the core in the middle that gives strength, and the top layer of authentic solid wood.
Manufacturing is based on a simple principle: the layers are arranged so that the wood grain alternates at right angles, creating superior structural stability. This technique, cross-grain lamination, compensates for the natural movements of wood caused by humidity and temperature.
The lower layers generally use plywood, often made from Russian cherry, while the visible layer can be white oak, red oak, or maple. The lower layers generally use plywood, often made from Russian cherry, while the visible layer can be white oak, red oak, or maple.
What are the advantages for the Quebec climate?
Quebec presents unique challenges: our harsh winters dry indoor air, and our humid summers create significant variations. Engineered wood better resists temperature variations, making it a viable option for our ever-changing Quebec climate.
Solid hardwood can expand in summer and contract in winter, potentially creating gaps between boards depending on installation. The multilayer structure where grains cross stabilizes engineered wood because the deformations of the different layers compensate each other. This stability also allows for board widths impossible with traditional hardwood. You can find boards from 5 to 10 inches wide without fear of warping over the seasons.
|
Situation |
What it means |
What to do |
|
Basement to renovate |
Higher humidity, concrete slab |
Choose engineered wood with glued installation |
|
New condo |
Acoustic insulation required, radiant heating |
Opt for double gluing with membrane |
|
House with dry air in winter |
Risk of wood contraction |
Maintain humidity at 35-55% with a humidifier |
|
Living room with heavy traffic |
Rapid surface wear |
Prefer wear layer of at least 4mm |
Where can engineered wood be installed?
Versatility distinguishes engineered wood. You can install it in a basement, directly on concrete, near heating elements, and even for radiant floors.
In the basement — The ideal place. The concrete slab and slightly higher humidity pose no problem, while traditional hardwood is strongly discouraged there.
In condos — Engineered planks work well in condominium units on concrete slabs, especially with glued installation. They also offer better sound insulation with a membrane.
With underfloor heating — Engineered wood accommodates the increasingly popular underfloor heating in Quebec. Enjoy a warm floor under your feet in winter. Before installing underfloor heating with engineered wood, make sure to verify product compliance with each other.
Ground floor and upper levels — Living room, bedrooms, hallway — engineered wood fits everywhere.
How to choose and install your floor?
Engineered wood offers four installation methods depending on your situation.
Stapled installation — Engineered floors are stapled onto a previously installed plywood subfloor. Traditional method for ground floors and upper levels. For planks over 5 inches, assisted gluing adds a line of glue for more stability.
Single gluing — Used when the subfloor is concrete or ceramic, glue is applied directly to the subfloor and the planks are installed on top. Preferred approach for basements and underfloor heating.
Double gluing — An acoustic membrane is first glued to the subfloor, then the engineered wood is glued on top of this membrane. Common technique in new condos to meet soundproofing standards.
Floating installation — The planks are locked together without being fixed to the floor. The fastest and most accessible method for DIYers, but it offers less stability.
To choose the right product, identify your type of subfloor. Assess the room's use — a guest bedroom has different needs than a busy hallway. Check compatibility with underfloor heating if applicable.
A sustainable choice for your home
Engineered wood offers a modern solution for Quebec homeowners seeking the look of wood with the stability needed for our climate. Its multilayer composition compensates for the weaknesses of solid wood while preserving its aesthetic.
Whether you are renovating a basement, finishing a condo, or modernizing your main floor, engineered wood offers the installation flexibility and durability you need. With proper maintenance, your investment will pay off for a long time.
Need advice for your flooring project? The Entrepôt de la Réno team can help you choose the engineered wood that fits your needs, budget, and style.
Contact us for the best solutions tailored to Quebec renovations.
