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Engineered timber looks and feels just like solid wood and for the eco-friendly homeowner, this is an affordable alternative to seasoned hardwood for your flooring needs. The core is made from compressed hardwood shavings, with a layer of real timber on the outside, while the multi-layers are criss-crossed, which adds tensile strength. With professional installation, you can rest assured that your flooring will exceed your expectations.
If you have already installed engineered timber or are planning a project, here are some great ways to care for the flooring.
- Sweep Regularly - One thing that can damage engineered timber is hard stones and if you make a habit of sweeping the floor, this will remove all debris. Sand and grit can scratch the timber surface and if a stone were to be stood on, this can easily leave a mark. Some homeowners insist on removing shoes when entering the house, which is an Asian thing, where the floor is also the dining table and this will certainly help to protect the engineered timber floor.
- Use Of A Damp Mop - A good quality mop that is rinsed out is ideal for the daily clean; most people mop their engineered hardwood floor in the morning and evening, which is enough to keep the floor clean and looking good. If you are looking for a supplier of quality engineered hardwood flooring, Market Timbers has engineered timber floors Melbourne homeowners go for. There are also great shops outside Melbourne. If you live elsewhere, searching through Google could lead you to a supplier that, like Market Timbers, offers a wide range of finishes at very affordable prices.
- Clean Spills Quickly - Much like you would with a solid timber floor, you should quickly soak up any liquid spillage, such as wine, coffee, or even water. The outer layer of engineered wood is very durable, but if wet for long periods, water can seep into the material, so it is best to be safe than sorry by quickly removing liquid spills.
- Use Soft Pads For Heavy Furniture - You can buy special neoprene rubber floor pads that you put under heavy furniture, which will prevent scuffs and marks. They do have a sticky side, which when placed on the floor, will stop the pads from sliding.
- Dealing With Scratches - Whether engineered or solid timber flooring, surface scratches should be dealt with promptly using a special scratch concealer that blends the marks with the surrounding area. Also, rubbing a little stain into the scratch will make it less noticeable.
- Trim Pet Toenails - This will help to keep your engineered wood floor looking its best, so when you book your dog in for his check-up, ask to clip his nails and your engineered wood floor will be happy.
- UV Sunlight - Strong sunlight can damage timber flooring; engineered and solid timber will fade if constantly exposed to strong sunlight. The blinds or curtains should be used to effectively screen sunlight, as discolouration will be noticeable and you might have to get the floor stained to restore an even colour.
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At least once a week, give the floor a good mop using a cleaning solution that is suitable for timber flooring and with regular sweeping, your engineered timber flooring will give you many years of trouble-free service.
