Engineered floors are constructed of three to seven layers of thin wood that are stacked together and then glued. The top layer is a thin piece of domestic or exotic wood that gives the plank its finished look. The planks range from 2 1/4" to 7" wide in various thickness.

Engineered flooring is a versatile wood flooring alternative because of its stability. Wood always expands and contracts across the width of the planks when subjected to changes in humidity. When engineered flooring is constructed, the layers of wood are stacked in opposite directions which cause them to counteract each other's movements when humidity changes occur. This cross-ply construction method creates a floor product that is dimensionally stable. Therefore, it can be installed over concrete slabs below ground level, as well as anywhere else in the home.

Engineered floors can be installed using either the nail-down or glue-down method; however, some manufacturers now offer a floating floor option. Engineered floors can also be installed over a variety of subfloors. (Please consult manufacturer for specific installation recommendations.)

Characteristics to consider when choosing engineered wood flooring:

• Engineered floors are dimensionally stable and react less to humidity changes.
• They can be installed below grade over concrete slabs.
• They can be installed over a variety of subfloors in a variety of methods.
• They can only be sanded and refinished once or twice.