How long should an engineered wood floor last?

Author: Dr. Ludwig Doyle  |  Last update: Thursday, July 31, 2025

The typical lifespan of engineered hardwood flooring ranges from 20 to 30 years or more, depending on factors such as the quality of materials, installation process, maintenance routines, and environmental conditions. Suppose you take good care of high-quality engineered hardwood floors with thicker wear layers.

How often should I replace engineered hardwood floors?

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.

What is the life expectancy of engineered wood flooring?

Engineered wood flooring consists of plywood, HDF, or softwood, combined with a layer of hardwood. The durable nature of engineered wood means that it should last for at least 25 to 30 years before needing replaced.

What are the negatives of engineered wood flooring?

What Are the Disadvantages of Engineered Wood Flooring?
  • Engineered Wood Is Pricey. ...
  • Low-Quality Core. ...
  • Prone to Fading. ...
  • Engineered Wood Must Acclimate. ...
  • Engineered Wood Requires Specific Care. ...
  • Limits to Refinishing. ...
  • Susceptible to Dents and Scratches. ...
  • Emits Dangerous Chemicals.

Do engineered wood floors scratch easily?

An engineered wood floor that is untreated will not only be succeptible to moisture ingress and water damage but also to scratching and marking.

How Long Does Engineered Floors Last?

Can you put a protective coating on engineered hardwood floors?

Most engineered hardwood often comes pre-finished and does not need to be sealed. However, if you would like to add an extra layer of protection from water leaks and spills, you can add a seal to engineered wood. Sealing your floor will keep the floors intact for longer.

How much does it cost to install 1000 square feet of engineered hardwood floors?

Installing engineered hardwood flooring in a 1000 square foot space typically ranges from $6,000 to $12,000. The average cost lands around $9,000. This includes both materials and labor, but factors like the type of wood and installation complexity can influence the final price.

How can you tell if engineered hardwood is high quality?

Lacquered and oil finishes stand as indicators of high-quality engineered wood flooring. A lacquered finish provides a robust, protective layer that is both durable and low-maintenance. An oil finish penetrates the wood, enriching its natural colour and highlighting its grain.

What is one problem associated with engineered floor systems?

One common problem associated with engineered floor systems, especially in certain circumstances, is moisture-related issues. Engineered wood flooring is more stable and less prone to expansion and contraction due to changes in humidity compared to solid wood flooring.

Does engineered wood flooring need maintenance?

With proper maintenance, your engineered wood floor will retain its beauty for years to come. Light floors, are typically more sensitive to wear-and-tear than dark ones, and therefore require more frequent cleaning and maintenance.

How to make engineered wood last longer?

Tips to take care of Engineered wood furniture
  1. For engineered wood furniture, it is recommended to wipe it clean with a clean, damp cloth regularly.
  2. Please use coasters or mats when placing anything hot, cold or wet on surfaces made of engineered wood.
  3. Wipe any spills and stains immediately with a clean, dry cloth.

How many times can you finish engineered hardwood?

2mm wear layer: can be sanded and refinished 1 to 2 times. 3mm wear layer: can be sanded and refinished 2 to 3 times. 4 to 6 mm wear layer: can be sanded and refinished 3 to 6 times.

Do engineered wood floors increase home value?

Engineered hardwood doesn't increase home value by much, but certain types, such as luxury vinyl, can add more to it than others. And reclaimed wood can vary, but has the potential for increasing value up to 2.5% or a little more.

How often do you need to mop engineered hardwood floors?

To sum it all up: Daily sweeping and mopping with a damp cloth will keep your flooring looking like new. Remember to deep clean occasionally, but avoid using too much water on your wood floors.

How do you refresh engineered hardwood floors?

If an engineered hardwood floor has a veneer that is too thin to withstand sanding and refinishing, there are still some effective ways to refresh and alter its appearance: Deep Cleaning and Coating: Deep cleaning followed by reapplying a clear polyurethane coating can revive some shine and protection.

What is the life expectancy of engineered hardwood floors?

The typical lifespan of engineered hardwood flooring ranges from 20 to 30 years or more, depending on factors such as the quality of materials, installation process, maintenance routines, and environmental conditions. Suppose you take good care of high-quality engineered hardwood floors with thicker wear layers.

What are the disadvantages of engineered flooring?

Below are some cons associated with engineered timber flooring:
  • Limited Refinishing Potential. Engineered timber flooring can only be refinished a limited number of times. ...
  • Susceptibility to Water Damage. ...
  • Potential Off-Gassing of VOCs. ...
  • Durability Issues. ...
  • Cost Considerations. ...
  • Inconsistent Quality. ...
  • Limited Lifespan.

Do termites eat engineered wood floors?

Do Termites Eat Solid, Laminate & Engineered Hardwood Floors? Termites will damage solid wood floors as well as laminate and engineered wood floors. However, hardwood floors most frequently fall victim to termite damage.

What damages engineered hardwood floors?

Debris and Dirt

Dirt and debris can scratch all wood flooring types without you even noticing. If you do not vacuum the place regularly, dirt and debris can get embedded in the surface over time. You should avoid sweeping the debris as it can scratch the flooring.

What is the best brand for engineered hardwood?

Top 5 Best Engineered Wood Flooring Brands For 2025
  • #1 Proximity Mills.
  • #2 Doma.
  • #3 Paradiso.
  • #4 Liberty Home.
  • #5 Newton.
  • Conclusion.

Can you tell the difference between LVP and engineered hardwood?

LVP is thicker than standard vinyl flooring and has a wear layer that protects against scratches and dents. On the other hand, engineered wood floors offer durability along with the look and feel of real wood. It's a popular choice for homeowners who want high-end hardwood floors that can withstand heavy foot traffic.

What thickness of engineered hardwood is best?

As you consider durable engineered wood flooring, you want to select products that meet certain criteria:
  • Overall Thickness: 5/8” or ¾” thick.
  • Thickness of the veneer: 4mm.
  • Thickness of the core: 9-ply or 11-ply.

How much should I expect to pay for engineered wood flooring?

Price Ranges

Basic Engineered Planks: These cost about $3 to $9 per square foot. They usually feature three core layers topped by a thin veneer. Mid-Range Engineered Planks: Costing between $6 and $12 per square foot, these planks are more durable and often have five core layers.

Do I need underlay for engineered wood flooring?

Generally, you will need to use one if you are using engineered wood flooring and you want to float it in your home. You can float an engineered wooden floor over an underlay, but never a solid wooden floor. Also, you can't float parquet blocks, they must be glued down into place.

What is the best hardwood flooring?

What Species Is Best? The best hardwood floors are made with wood species that are readily available and — you guessed it — very hard. Oak flooring, maple flooring and cherry flooring are all good choices. Other species include bamboo (which is actually a grass), walnut, ash and mahogany.

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