14mm Thick Engineered Wood

Engineered wood flooring has become a go-to option for many homeowners in the UK, and 14mm thickness represents a sweet spot for both performance and value. The multi-layered construction provides exceptional stability, which is especially beneficial in areas with fluctuating temperatures and humidity, as it is far less likely to warp or swell than solid wood alternatives. This makes it a great choice for various rooms within the home, including living areas, hallways, and even conservatories, as long as the correct installation and subfloor preparation is followed.

The top layer of a 14mm engineered wood floor is made from a real wood species, such as oak or walnut. This means that you get the authentic look and feel of a solid wood floor, with all its natural grain patterns and textures. This wear layer is thick enough to withstand the demands of daily life and can be sanded and refinished multiple times over its lifetime to repair scratches or refresh the appearance of your floor. This durability and repairability mean that an engineered wood floor is a long-term investment that will increase the value of your home.

Beyond its robust construction, engineered wood offers a huge range of aesthetic choices to suit any interior design. You can find options in various plank widths and lengths, including popular herringbone and chevron patterns, and a variety of finishes, from rustic distressed looks to sleek, smooth surfaces. Brands like V4 and Kahrs are known for their quality and design, offering everything from classic engineered oak to more exotic species. Our expert team can help you navigate these options to find the perfect engineered wood floor for your home.

As well as the aesthetic benefits, engineered wood flooring is also a practical choice for modern homes. It is compatible with underfloor heating systems, provided that the manufacturer’s installation guidelines are followed, making it an excellent option for creating a warm and comfortable living space. Its tongue-and-groove or click-lock systems also make installation a quicker and more straightforward process than traditional solid wood flooring, whether you choose to have it professionally fitted or are a confident DIYer. Our “supply and fit” service ensures a flawless installation by our expert team of professionals, giving you peace of mind that your new floor will last for years to come.

Buying Guide for 14mm Engineered Wood Flooring

Choosing the right flooring for your home is a big decision. This guide will help you understand if a 14mm engineered wood floor is the right choice for your needs, covering key aspects from room suitability to maintenance and style.

• Room Usage / Location: 14mm engineered wood is incredibly versatile and suitable for most rooms in the house, including living rooms, dining rooms, hallways, and bedrooms. Due to its stable construction, it handles changes in temperature and humidity better than solid wood, making it a viable option for kitchens. It is not recommended for high-moisture areas like bathrooms.
• Lifestyle: This type of flooring is ideal for households seeking a durable and long-lasting floor with the beauty of natural wood. The wear layer can be sanded and refinished, making it a great choice for busy family homes, but it’s important to be aware that wood can scratch and dent. It is generally a good option for homes with pets and children, as long as you are prepared for the occasional scuff or mark that adds to the floor’s character.
• Budget: A 14mm engineered wood floor represents a mid-to-high-end investment. While the initial cost may be higher than laminate or vinyl, its durability, longevity, and ability to be refinished mean it can be more cost-effective in the long run. It adds significant value to a property due to its authentic real wood top layer.
• Durability & Maintenance: The robust construction makes it highly durable for everyday use. Maintenance is simple; regular sweeping or vacuuming and occasional damp mopping with a manufacturer-approved cleaner are all that’s required. The ability to sand and refinish the floor multiple times sets it apart from other flooring types, allowing it to look new for many years.
• Material Type Pros & Cons:
  • Pros: Features a real wood top layer for authentic aesthetics, highly stable and less prone to warping than solid wood, compatible with underfloor heating, and can be sanded and refinished.
  • Cons: More expensive than laminate or vinyl, can be susceptible to scratches and dents, and not suitable for wet areas like bathrooms.
• Aesthetics & Style: With a real wood surface, engineered wood offers a huge array of styles. You can choose from various wood species (e.g., oak, walnut), plank widths, and finishes (e.g., oiled, lacquered, distressed). This allows you to achieve a traditional, rustic, or ultra-modern look to perfectly complement your home’s decor.
• Comfort & Sound: Engineered wood feels warm underfoot and provides a solid feel. When installed correctly over a quality underlay, it can significantly reduce noise, making it quieter than some other hard flooring options.
• Underfloor Heating: A 14mm thick engineered wood floor is an excellent choice for use with underfloor heating systems. The multi-layered construction allows for better heat transfer and stability than solid wood, but it’s essential to ensure the product and installation method are approved by the manufacturer for this purpose.
• Installation: Engineered wood can be installed as a floating floor, or glued down. It is a more straightforward process than installing solid wood, making it a popular choice for both professionals and skilled DIY enthusiasts. For a guaranteed perfect finish, consider a professional fitting service like the one offered by Grosvenor Flooring.
• Sustainability: Many engineered wood products, especially from brands like V4 and Kahrs, are sourced from responsibly managed forests, offering a more sustainable alternative to solid wood by using less of the slow-growing top layer wood species in each plank.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many times can you sand a 14mm engineered wood floor?

The number of times you can sand a 14mm engineered wood floor depends on the thickness of the real wood top layer. A floor with a 3-4mm wear layer can typically be sanded at least 2-3 times during its lifetime, allowing you to restore its look over many years.

Is 14mm thick engineered wood flooring waterproof?

No, engineered wood flooring is not waterproof. While the multi-layered construction provides greater stability, the real wood top layer will absorb water, which can cause it to swell or discolour. It is important to wipe up any spills immediately to avoid damage and to use a cleaning product that is approved for use on wood floors.

What’s the difference between 14mm and 18mm engineered wood?

The primary difference is the thickness of the overall board and often the wear layer. A thicker board, such as an 18mm, often has a thicker wear layer and can be sanded more times. However, 14mm is a perfectly durable and popular choice for most domestic settings, offering great stability and longevity at a more accessible price point.