Engineered hardwood flooring is a popular choice for homeowners who want the look of hardwood without the high price tag or maintenance requirements. However, one question that often comes up is how much does engineered hardwood floor expand and contract?
The short answer is that engineered hardwood flooring will expand and contract less than solid hardwood flooring. This is because engineered flooring is made up of multiple layers of wood, with the top layer being real hardwood and the bottom layers being made up of plywood or high-density fiberboard. This construction provides stability and resistance to moisture, which helps to prevent excessive expansion and contraction.
That being said, it’s important to note that engineered hardwood flooring is not completely immune to expansion and contraction. The amount of movement will depend on a variety of factors, such as the species of wood used, the width of the planks, the humidity level in the room, and the installation method.
One common cause of expansion and contraction is changes in humidity levels. When the air is dry, the wood will release moisture and shrink, while in high humidity, the wood will absorb moisture and expand. This can cause gaps to appear between the planks or buckling in extreme cases.
To minimize the risk of expansion and contraction, it’s important to maintain a consistent humidity level in the room where the engineered hardwood flooring is installed. This can be achieved through the use of a humidifier or dehumidifier, depending on the climate and time of year. It’s also a good idea to acclimate the flooring to the room temperature and humidity for a few days before installation.
Another factor to consider is the width of the planks. Wide planks are more prone to movement than narrow planks, so it’s important to choose a width that is appropriate for the room and the installation method. Glued-down installations tend to be more stable than floating installations, which can also affect the amount of expansion and contraction.
In conclusion, while engineered hardwood flooring is more stable than solid hardwood flooring, it’s still important to take measures to minimize the risk of expansion and contraction. By maintaining a consistent humidity level, choosing the appropriate plank width, and acclimating the flooring before installation, you can help ensure that your engineered hardwood flooring looks beautiful and performs well for years to come.
