What is the life expectancy of engineered hardwood floors?

Author: Jacynthe Quitzon  |  Last update: Sunday, September 7, 2025

On average, engineered hardwood floors can last anywhere from 20 to 30 years, depending on the thickness of the top layer (veneer), the quality of the product, and the conditions it's exposed to. High-quality engineered hardwood with a thicker veneer can even last up to 40 years if well-maintained.

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 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.

How long should an engineered wood floor last?

Thanks to the composition of engineered flooring, which consists of multiple core pieces of plywood, HDF, or softwood, topped off with a beautiful layer of hardwood, it means that engineered flooring can last for up to 30 years in the right conditions.

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 can I expect my hardwood floors to 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.

Can you mop engineered wood floors?

While you can use a vacuum if that's more convenient, we recommend using a soft brush attachment designed for hard floors to minimise scratches. We often get questions about mopping engineered wood flooring. While you can use a mop, it's best to use a damp cloth rather than a soaking wet mop.

Is thicker engineered floor better?

Thicker-engineered hardwood is often more durable and stable, making it ideal for higher foot traffic areas.

How many times can you sand an engineered floor?

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.

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.

Should you float engineered hardwood?

There is always a chance that these floors will expand and contract as humidity levels and temperatures change. However, a floating engineered floor will not have to strain against adhesives or nails, so there is less chance of damage when these things happen.

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.

Is it worth it to refinish engineered hardwood?

Is it worth it to refinish engineered hardwood floors? Absolutely, if the veneer layer is thick enough. Refinishing can extend your floor's life and enhance its look.

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.

What is the best quality engineered flooring?

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

Why do engineered floors buckle?

Like sponges, wood swells and expands as it absorbs water, but not to the same extreme. Although the design of engineered wood creates a higher resistance to water than solid wood floors, consistent, large moisture and water absorption, paired with high humidity levels, still affect engineered wood.

Which floor is better vinyl or engineered?

Vinyl flooring is durable, water-resistant, and affordable, making it ideal for households with children or pets. On the other hand, engineered wood offers a look and feel close to natural wood, preferred for its aesthetic. Your choice will depend on your personal preferences and the requirements of your living space.

Can I use Swiffer wet on engineered hardwood?

Damp Cleaning Guidelines:

Damp cleaning is recommended using a Swiffer wet jet system or a Bona moistened cleaner pad (not spray on the floor). The moistened pad should be pH 7 neutral. Avoid using Swiffer pre-treated moistened pads and other cleaners with non-neutral pH levels.

Is Bona cleaner good for engineered hardwood floors?

Yes, Bona Hardwood Floor Cleaner is recommended for use on engineered hardwood floors, as well as all unwaxed, unoiled, polyurethane finished wood floors.

Can you use Clorox wipes on engineered hardwood?

Floor Cleaning Tips

For a quick clean up of spills on different flooring surfaces you can use Clorox® Disinfecting Wipes. They work great on hardwood floors! You can also use Clorox® Scentiva® Disinfecting Wet Mopping Cloths, which make it easy and convenient to clean floors, and can be used with a sweeper tool.

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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