Why Oak Flooring Isn’t as High-Maintenance as You’ve Been Told
- james42230
- Nov 5
- 4 min read
Oak flooring has long been admired for its warmth, texture, and timeless appeal. Yet, for many homeowners, it comes with a reputation for being fussy and high-maintenance. The idea that oak is too delicate for everyday life has lingered for decades, often discouraging people who love the natural beauty of timber from choosing it for their homes.
But here’s the truth: much of that perception is outdated. Modern engineered oak flooring has evolved enormously, and when manufactured with the right technology and finishes, it is no more difficult to maintain than vinyl or laminate. In fact, in many cases, it’s easier.
Where the “High-Maintenance” Myth Comes From
The belief that timber floors are hard work can be traced back to the days of old solid wood planks that required constant sanding and polishing. What’s more, the modern narrative has been pushed along by laminate and synthetic flooring suppliers who have an interest in promoting the idea that timber is fragile.
These marketing tactics have shaped public perception for years. Laminate brands, in particular, often compare their printed, plastic-coated surfaces to timber in order to sell a “worry-free” story. Yet the comparison is misleading. Engineered oak is not a raw, unsealed board. It’s a sophisticated, layered construction designed for strength and longevity.
Technology Has Changed the Game so Oak Flooring Isn’t High-Maintenance
Today’s engineered oak flooring is a different product entirely from the timber floors of the past. Each board is crafted from multiple layers, with a stable core and a real oak veneer on top. The surface is protected with advanced coatings that are cured under ultraviolet light to create a permanent, wear-resistant barrier.
Marchand Luxury Oak, one of New Zealand’s leading suppliers of European oak flooring, takes this technology even further. All (but two - Vuitton and Clair) feature nine layers of UV-cured lacquer, making them among the most protected floors on the NZ market. This multilayered system offers exceptional durability against wear, sunlight, and moisture.
Each layer of lacquer has a purpose:
The first few layers strengthen the bond and protect against moisture.
The middle layers enrich the colour and prevent UV fading.
The top layers create a hard, scratch-resistant finish that’s easy to clean.
Built for "Lived in Homes"
New Zealand homes are unique. They experience wide-ranging temperatures, coastal air, and strong sunlight, all of which can challenge inferior flooring systems. Well-engineered oak boards, like those made for local conditions, are designed to remain stable, even with changing humidity levels.
Modern coatings also prevent fading, so the colour you fall in love with stays true over time. Whether in a bright lakeside home or a contemporary city apartment, the right engineered oak floor can handle daily life with ease.
Cleaning and Maintenance
One of the biggest surprises for homeowners who choose oak flooring is just how simple it is to maintain. There’s no need for constant polishing or special products. Check out our essential guide to maintain a beautiful floor.
Realistic Expectations
It’s important to remember that oak is still timber, and part of its charm lies in its authenticity. If you drop a heavy object on it, you can expect a dent, just as you would with any natural wood. The good news is that most small marks can be repaired easily.
A touch of matching wax filler or a wood repair crayon will disguise minor dents and scratches in seconds. These little imperfections often become part of a floor’s character, telling the story of the home over time. We talk and show you how to fix a dint in your floor here.
The Value of Quality
Many people choose laminate because they think it’s lower maintenance, but the truth is that high-quality engineered oak often outperforms cheap synthetic alternatives over time. Oiled or low-finish floors might need re-coating every year or two, while multi-layered UV lacquers can last decades without attention.
Once installed, a well-made oak floor requires little more than ordinary cleaning and care. The investment you make upfront in a properly finished, engineered product means fewer costs and less hassle down the track.
Beauty That Lasts
Oak’s appeal comes from its natural texture and warmth. Modern coatings enhance that beauty rather than covering it up. The surface remains smooth, tactile, and inviting underfoot while resisting stains and discolouration.
The Bottom Line
Oak flooring’s reputation for being high-maintenance belongs to another time. Advances in manufacturing, coatings, and construction have made engineered oak one of the most practical flooring options for modern homes.
If you’ve been told that timber floors are too much work, take a closer look at what’s available today. With the right engineering and surface protection, oak can be as resilient as it is beautiful.
And if you’re exploring the best options in New Zealand, look for floors with multiple UV-cured lacquer layers. Brands like Marchand Luxury Oak have raised the standard with nine layers of protection on most of their ranges, giving homeowners the peace of mind that true luxury should bring.
Because real oak doesn’t need constant care. It just needs to be lived on, loved, and appreciated for what it is — natural, timeless, and enduring.
