Engineered timber flooring is made with a thin layer of real hardwood on top (usually 2–6mm thick) and a multi-layered base underneath—often made from plywood or high-density fibreboard. Solid timber, on the other hand, is one thick piece of hardwood all the way through. The key difference? Stability. Engineered timber is way more resistant to changes in temperature and humidity, which makes it perfect for Australian homes that deal with heat, air con, or moisture. You get the exact same look and feel on the surface, but the board itself is less likely to warp, cup, or shrink over time. It also comes pre-finished, so there’s no sanding or sealing needed after install. Basically, you get the beauty of real wood with less of the headache that comes with traditional hardwood flooring.

Engineered timber works in pretty much every dry area of the house—living rooms, bedrooms, hallways, dining areas, and even offices. It’s not ideal for bathrooms or wet areas like laundries, but if you're after warmth and texture underfoot, it’s perfect for most living zones. Because of its stable structure, you can even install it over underfloor heating in some cases—just check the product specs. It’s also a great option for upstairs areas or multi-level homes because it’s lighter and easier to work with than solid timber. If you’re renovating an older home or building new and want a floor that’ll look premium and last long-term, engineered timber’s a solid choice. And with so many colours and finishes available, it fits pretty much any style—classic, contemporary, or somewhere in between.

There are two main ways to install engineered timber: floating or glue-down. Floating is the quicker, easier method—it uses a click-lock system or tongue-and-groove boards laid over an underlay without any nails or glue. It’s ideal for DIY installs and lets the boards move slightly with seasonal changes. Glue-down is a more permanent install that gives a more solid, timber-like feel underfoot. It’s also quieter and better for larger, open-plan areas. Either way, the planks usually come pre-finished, so once they’re down, you’re good to go. Just make sure the subfloor is flat and clean before you start. If you’re not confident or want the best finish, it’s worth getting a pro to do the install—especially with herringbone or more complex patterns.

Pros? You get real timber—grain, texture, natural colour—all without the issues of solid hardwood. It’s more stable, easier to install, and often more affordable overall. It comes pre-finished, so there’s no mess or downtime after install. You can choose from loads of finishes, board widths, and even patterns like herringbone. Cons? It’s not fully waterproof, so it’s not suitable for bathrooms or areas with standing moisture. And while many engineered timber floors can be sanded, they usually have a limit—you might only be able to sand them once or twice depending on the thickness of the top layer. So they won’t last forever like thick hardwood, but they’ll hold up beautifully for decades with proper care. If you're chasing that natural wood look with modern practicality, this is it.

Engineered timber is easy to care for—just keep it simple. Sweep or vacuum regularly to clear dust and grit, and mop with a damp (not wet) cloth using a timber-safe cleaner. Don’t soak it or use a steam mop, as excess moisture can mess with the timber layer. Place mats at entrances to trap dirt and water, and pop felt pads under furniture to stop scratching. Avoid dragging heavy stuff across it, and if you do get a scratch, some finishes can be lightly buffed or touched up. The good news is that the natural variation in timber hides a lot anyway. Some higher-end engineered floors can even be lightly sanded and refinished once or twice if you really want to freshen them up after a few years. But with basic maintenance, it’ll stay looking great for ages.