Real Wood Flooring
Real wood top layer. Greater stability than solid. Works with underfloor heating. Engineered wood is the most popular real-wood choice we fit across the North West.
The Basics
Engineered wood is a multi-layer construction: plywood or HDF core layers topped with a real hardwood veneer, typically 3–6mm thick. You get genuine wood on the surface — the grain, the texture, the warmth — with a more stable core beneath it.
That core is the key difference from solid wood. Because the layers run in alternating directions, the board resists the expansion and contraction that temperature and humidity changes cause. Less movement means fewer gaps, less cupping, fewer problems over time.
Why Engineered Wood?
Six reasons engineered wood is our most-fitted real-wood floor across Lancashire and Greater Manchester.
The surface is genuine hardwood — not vinyl, not a photograph. You get the real grain, real texture and real character that only wood provides.
Most engineered boards work with water and electric UFH. The stable core handles temperature changes better than solid wood — always check the product spec.
A thicker veneer can be sanded and refinished. Scratched after ten years? Sand it back, re-oil or re-lacquer, and it looks new again.
The cross-ply core resists expansion and contraction. Less movement across the seasons means the floor stays tighter and more consistent over time.
Engineered wood is the most authentic way to achieve a herringbone floor. Real wood surface, geometric pattern — a genuinely striking combination.
Oak is most popular, but walnut, ash and maple are all available. Different species bring very different characters — from light and contemporary to dark and rich.
Room by Room
Engineered wood suits most rooms. Here's where it excels — and where to be careful.
This is where engineered wood shines. Warm, beautiful, handles normal foot traffic without fuss. Pairs well with underfloor heating if you have it.
Possible, but moisture control matters. Keep it away from the sink and dishwasher. We'd recommend LVT if there's any doubt about moisture levels.
Warm underfoot, looks beautiful, and holds up well in a low-traffic room. A great alternative to carpet for allergy sufferers.
Works well in hallways, especially when run through from the living room. Higher traffic than bedrooms — engineered wood handles it well with the right finish.
From the Floorgear Range
We supply the TruWood engineered range from Floorgear — 14/3mm construction available as wide plank or herringbone, in a choice of species and finishes.
TruWood Plank is available in 5 species options. We bring a full sample board to your home — call to arrange a free consultation.
Recent Jobs
A selection of recent engineered wood installs across Greater Manchester and Lancashire.
Engineered oak in a wide plank format throughout an open-plan kitchen-living area. Oiled finish for a natural, matte look. Customer chose it for the warmth real wood brings, especially over underfloor heating.
Herringbone engineered oak in a Victorian-style hallway. The pattern suits the period property perfectly. Lacquered finish chosen for durability in a busy entrance.
Wide plank engineered ash in a master bedroom. Pale, contemporary look — the customer replaced carpet and wanted something easy to clean that wouldn't date quickly.
"The floor is absolutely stunning — better than I imagined"
I was torn between LVT and engineered wood for the living room. Halvar took the time to explain the difference properly and helped me pick the right oak board for the space. The fitting was clean, professional and finished ahead of schedule. It looks like something out of a show home. Couldn't be happier.
Sale, Greater Manchester
Common Questions
Solid wood is real hardwood all the way through. Engineered wood has a real hardwood veneer on top with a stable plywood or HDF core beneath. Both have a genuine wood surface — the difference is in the construction. Engineered is more stable, works better with underfloor heating, and suits a wider range of rooms. Solid wood can be sanded more times and is the premium choice for rooms where moisture is not a concern. We'll help you decide during your consultation.
Yes — but the number of times depends on the veneer thickness. A 3mm veneer gives you roughly one refinish. A 6mm veneer can give you two or three. This is worth checking when choosing your board. We'll advise on veneer thickness during the selection process so you know exactly what you're getting long-term.
Most engineered wood boards are compatible with both water and electric underfloor heating — this is one of the main advantages over solid wood. The stable core handles temperature changes much better. Always check the specific product's maximum temperature rating. We confirm compatibility before ordering anything for your job.
Oak is by far the most popular — it's versatile, comes in a huge range of tones and finishes, and suits both traditional and contemporary homes. Walnut is the premium choice for a darker, richer look. Ash is popular for a pale, contemporary feel with a strong grain. All three are available in straight plank and herringbone formats.
Free Home Consultation
We'll come to you, look at the room, talk through your options and give you a clear price. No obligation, no pressure.
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