Engineered wood flooring is a popular choice for homeowners and businesses due to its durability, stability, and cost-effectiveness. Unlike solid wood floors, engineered wood floors are made from multiple layers of wood, with a top layer of hardwood and a core of softer wood or synthetic materials. This construction provides excellent dimensional stability, making it less prone to shrinkage and expansion. Engineered wood flooring is available in various thicknesses, including 15mm and 20mm, and can be installed over underfloor heating systems. This versatility makes engineered wood an ideal option for a wide range of applications, from residential homes to commercial spaces.
Understanding Engineered Wood Flooring Thickness
When we talk about engineered wood flooring thickness, we’re referring to the combined measurement of two key components: the hardwood wear layer on top and the core layers beneath. These layers, including the top hardwood layer, are bonded using adhesive under high pressure.
In the UK market, engineered wood flooring typically ranges from 10mm to 20mm in total thickness. The wear layer itself usually varies from 2mm to 6mm, while the remainder consists of plywood core layers or other engineered wood materials. The thickness of both components significantly affects quality and durability.
Generally speaking, thicker boards tend to offer greater stability and longevity. A thicker wear layer allows for more refinishing opportunities over the floor’s lifetime, while robust core layers provide better structural support and insulation properties. However, thicker doesn’t always mean better for every situation.
Types of Flooring
There are several types of flooring available, including solid wood floors, engineered wood floors, and laminate floors. Engineered wood flooring is a versatile option that can be used in a variety of settings, from residential homes to commercial spaces. It is available in different thicknesses, including 15mm and 20mm, and can be made from various species of hardwood, such as oak and timber. Engineered wood flooring is also compatible with underfloor heating systems, making it a great option for rooms with high heat demands. This adaptability ensures that engineered wood can meet the unique needs of any space, providing both aesthetic appeal and practical benefits.
The Hidden Costs of Choosing the Wrong Thickness
Compatibility Issues with Underfloor Heating
Underfloor heating systems have become increasingly popular in UK homes, particularly in colder areas where winter temperatures can be quite chilly. However, many homeowners don’t realise that the thickness of an engineered floor directly impacts heating efficiency.
Thicker engineered wood boards can act as insulators, reducing the amount of heat that reaches your living space. This means your heating system works harder and uses more energy to achieve the same temperature, potentially adding hundreds of pounds to your annual heating bills.
Conversely, boards that are too thin may warp or crack due to the fluctuating temperatures from underfloor heating systems. Most manufacturers recommend engineered wood flooring between 14mm and 16mm for optimal performance with radiant heat systems, with a stable plywood core for better thermal conductivity.
Sound Insulation Problems
Noise transfer between floors is a common complaint in UK homes, particularly in flats and terraced housing. The thickness of your engineered flooring plays a crucial role in sound insulation properties.
Thinner flooring options (10-12mm) typically provide less acoustic dampening, allowing more impact noise to travel through to rooms below. This can be particularly problematic in multi-storey homes or upper-floor flats, where footsteps and other everyday activities can become a nuisance to those below.
The British standard for domestic floor acoustic performance (sound transmission rating) often requires combination solutions when thinner engineered wood is used, further increasing installation complexity and cost.
Limited Refinishing Potential
One of the primary advantages of wooden flooring is its ability to be refinished when the surface becomes worn or damaged. However, the refinishing potential is directly linked to the thickness of the hardwood wear layer.
Thinner wear layers (2mm or less) can typically be refinished only once or not at all. By contrast, premium engineered wood flooring with 4-6mm wear layers can be sanded and refinished multiple times over decades of use, maintaining the floor's durability and aesthetic appeal, similar to solid hardwood options.
The cost difference becomes apparent when considering long-term value. While thinner options might save initially, a floor that needs complete replacement after 10-15 years instead of simple refinishing can cost thousands more over your home’s lifetime.
Installation Complications
Choosing the wrong thickness can create numerous installation headaches that translate directly to higher costs and project delays.
Door clearance issues are among the most common problems. If your new flooring is thicker than previous floor coverings, doors may no longer swing freely and require trimming or even replacement.
Threshold height differences between rooms can also create trip hazards or aesthetic issues. Transition strips and additional carpentry work to create smooth junctions between different flooring areas can add hundreds to your installation budget.
Choosing the Right Thickness for Your Specific Needs
Room-by-Room Considerations
Different areas of your home have different requirements when it comes to engineered wood flooring thickness.
For high-traffic areas such as hallways and kitchens, durability is paramount. Flooring with a thicker wear layer (4-6mm) and overall thickness of 18mm engineered wood flooring to 20mm engineered flooring will better withstand the constant foot traffic and occasional dropped items. Each plank consists of multiple layers of wood, enhancing stability and allowing for long-term maintenance. While this might cost 20-30% more initially, these floors typically last years longer before showing signs of wear.
Living spaces and bedrooms can often use mid-range thickness options 14mm engineered wood flooring to 16mm engineered wood flooring total thickness with 3-4mm wear layers), balancing cost with performance. These areas typically see moderate traffic and fewer spills or impacts than kitchens or entrances.
For basements or areas with moisture concerns, thinner engineered wood options (10-14mm) with moisture-resistant core layers might actually perform better, as they can accommodate slight subfloor moisture variations with less warping.
Budget Considerations
When evaluating engineered wood flooring thickness, it’s essential to consider both the initial price and lifetime value.
While budget constraints might push homeowners toward thinner options, the long-term economics often favor investing in better-quality, appropriate thickness flooring. A mid-range option often represents the best value, particularly in family homes where floors will see considerable use but complete premium options may stretch the budget too far.
For investment properties, where rental yields matter, calculating the lifetime cost (purchase + maintenance + replacement) over your expected ownership period is crucial. Often, mid-thickness options (14-16mm) provide the optimal balance for rental properties.
Property Type Factors
Different property types have unique requirements when it comes to selecting a suitable engineered wood flooring thickness.
Flats and apartments, particularly those above ground level, must consider both building regulations regarding sound transmission and potential restrictions on floor height increases. Thinner engineered options (12-14mm) combined with quality acoustic underlayment often work best in these situations.
Listed buildings and heritage properties present special challenges. The character and historical value must be preserved, while still providing modern performance. Conservation officers often prefer thicker engineered wood options (16-20mm) that more closely match original solid wood flooring dimensions, particularly in Georgian and Victorian.
For new builds versus renovations, the considerations differ significantly. New properties can be designed with specific floor heights in mind, while renovations must work within existing constraints. Renovation projects often require careful thickness selection to match existing door thresholds, built-in cabinetry, and other fixed elements.
Free Samples and Testing
Before making a final decision, it is essential to order a selection of our free samples of engineered wood flooring to test the colour, texture, and quality of the product. This allows customers to see how the flooring will look in their home and make an informed decision. Free samples are available for all types of engineered wood flooring, including 15mm and 20mm thicknesses. By ordering free samples, customers can ensure that they are getting the right flooring for their unique needs and budget. This step is crucial in the selection process, as it helps to avoid costly mistakes and ensures satisfaction with the final product.
Subfloor Preparation
Proper subfloor preparation is crucial for the successful installation of engineered wood flooring. The subfloor must be level, clean, and dry before installation. Any unevenness or moisture issues must be addressed before laying the flooring. It is also essential to consider the type of subfloor, including concrete, plywood, or joists, when selecting the right thickness of engineered wood flooring. A well-prepared subfloor ensures a stable and durable flooring system. Taking the time to properly prepare the subfloor can prevent future issues and extend the life of your engineered wood flooring.
Measuring and Fitting
Measuring and fitting engineered wood flooring requires careful consideration of the room’s dimensions, including the length, width, and layout. It is essential to take accurate measurements to ensure a proper fit and to avoid waste. The flooring should be laid in a way that creates a balanced and harmonious appearance, taking into account the direction of the planks and the location of any obstacles, such as heating vents or doorways. A professional installer can help ensure a successful installation and provide guidance on the best way to measure and fit the flooring. Proper measuring and fitting are key to achieving a flawless finish and maximising the performance of your engineered wood flooring.
Expert Recommendations for UK Homes
Optimal Thickness for Different Scenarios
For family homes with children and pets, durability is key. Experts typically recommend engineered floors with a total thickness of 15-20mm and wear layers of at least 4mm. This construction can withstand toys being dropped, pet claws, and the general rough and tumble of family life while providing sufficient longevity to see children grow from toddlers to teens.
Rental properties benefit from a balance of quality and practicality. Most professional landlords opt for 14-16mm engineered wood with 3-4mm wear layers, providing good durability without over-investing in premium materials. This thickness range also typically offers good compatibility with underfloor heating systems increasingly common in newer rental developments.
For luxury renovations where budget is less constrained, premium engineered wood flooring of 18mm-20mm thickness with 6mm wear layers provides the closest experience to solid hardwood while offering superior stability. These premium products can be refinished multiple times and often come with extended warranties of 25+ years.
Period properties benefit from engineered wood flooring that matches historical dimensions. For Victorian terraced houses, 18mm engineered wood flooring with wider planks often complements the character while providing modern performance benefits.
Regional Considerations in the UK
Climate factors and movement significantly impact the ideal flooring thickness for different regions. Parts of the UK receive considerable seasonal humidity fluctuations, from damp winters to occasionally warm summers. Engineered wood flooring in the 14-18mm range typically handles these variations best, with sufficient stability to prevent warping or cupping.
Specifically in places where older housing stock predominates, thicker engineered wood options often integrate better with existing architectural features. The higher insulation value of thicker floors is also beneficial in this cooler region, particularly in older stone-built properties.
Conclusion
Selecting the right engineered wood flooring thickness is far more important than many UK homeowners realise. From heating efficiency and sound insulation to refinishing potential and installation complications, the thickness you choose impacts both immediate project costs and long-term property value.
Thankfully, by considering your specific circumstances, property type, family situation, underfloor heating requirements, and regional factors, you can avoid the hidden costs associated with choosing the wrong flooring thickness.
Order your free king size samples today and see the possibilities in our Engineered wood range. With the right thickness selection, your engineered wood flooring will provide beauty, performance, and value for decades to come.
