Is Engineered Wood Flooring Real Wood?

When you start researching wood flooring options, you will come across the term “engineered wood flooring.” This term, ‘engineered,’ simply means that the wood has been specifically made in a way that makes it stronger. This can be misleading, so there is a misconception that it isn’t ‘real’ wood. So, is engineered wood real wood?

The simple answer is yes. Mills make engineered wood flooring using real wood, unlike laminate flooring or luxury vinyl tiles (LVT), which only mimic the appearance of wood.

What is Engineered Wood Flooring?

Engineered wood flooring consists of multiple layers, with a solid hardwood top layer on the surface and a stable multi-ply base beneath. Mills make the top layer (wear layer) using real hardwood, such as oak, walnut, or ash, giving it the same authentic appearance and texture as traditional solid wood flooring. Beneath the wooden top layer, a ply base—usually made from birch plywood or similar—adds strength and stability.

How is it Different from Laminate and LVT?

Here’s a quick overview of the materials these different products are made of:

• Engineered wood flooring has a solid wood top layer, pressed and bonded and a stable base of plywood.

• Laminate Flooring is made with a photographic image of wood printed on a composite, using layers of wood fibres and synthetic resins, topped with a clear protective wear layer.

• Luxury Vinyl Tile (LVT) is a tough synthetic flooring option with a plastic or vinyl base that replicates the look of wood using a high-resolution printed layer.

The Benefits of Choosing Engineered Wood Flooring

Here’s a quick rundown of the advantages engineered wood flooring has over LVT and laminate:

Authentic Appearance

Since the top layer is natural wood, engineered timber flooring looks as natural and beautiful as a solid wood floor.

Stability and Durability

The multi-layer construction minimises expansion and contraction due to temperature and humidity changes.

Versatile Installation

It can be installed over underfloor heating and in areas where solid wood might not be suitable.

Eco-Friendly

If sourced from sustainably managed forests, engineered wood flooring can be a carbon-neutral product, as timber stores carbon absorbed over the tree’s lifetime. It also uses much less hardwood than solid wood floors, making better use of natural resources.

Long-Lasting

Unlike laminate and LVT, a wooden surface can be sanded back and refinished (depending on the thickness of the top layer), extending its lifespan.

Healthier Indoor Air Quality

Choose wood flooring made with low-VOC (volatile organic compound) adhesives and finished with non-toxic oils to ensure a healthier indoor environment. Many LVT and laminate options emit VOCs, including formaldehyde, which can impact air quality.

Photo credits: Interiors Family/David Giles, Pringle & Pringle/Alexander James

In Summary

Unlike laminate or LVT, engineered wood flooring features a genuine, natural wood surface, delivering the warmth, beauty, and quality of solid wood with added stability. It’s an excellent great choice if you’re looking for flooring that balances aesthetics, durability, sustainability, and practicality.

Want to learn more about our floors? Read our guide on the benefits of engineered wood flooring.