In January 2015, the Building Design and Construction network, the BDC, published 5 multifamily trends that were changing the way rental units are being built.

Wood panel plank texture background, image used retro vintage filter
Wood panel plank texture background, image used retro vintage filter

In the study, BDC suggests that more high-rise apartment buildings are being constructed than any other type of rental housing. The trends they say fueling this new industry growth include:

  • Affordability (without compromising quality)
  • Desire for urban lifestyle
  • More technology in-unit
  • Community amenities
  • Green Housing

Today, we’ll discuss why these trends could push engineered hardwood flooring as a go-to solution for multi-family complexes.

1. Affordability, Meet Style

A pairing of affordability and style in a rental unit is becoming more of a need than a request in the market.

Engineered hardwood floors are more affordable than their solid timber counterparts, but still feature the fabulous wooden appearance that makes so many homeowners choose wood floors. Because of its affordability and luxurious appearance, we’re willing to bet more property investors will choose engineered wood during remodels and new builds in the future.

2. Community Amenities

Renters appreciate luxury, and offering community living spaces like gyms and an outdoor pool are two ways that multi-family complexes fill the need for luxury in rental spaces. While engineered wood may not fare well in moisture-rich areas, it’s likely the most aesthetic, long lasting, and affordable flooring option for community centers and other indoor areas.

3. A Healthier Option

There are countless studies suggesting that carpet flooring isn’t a sustainable floor covering when it comes to health. In fact, the American Lung Association has stated that carpet flooring can contribute to asthma, skin irritation, headaches, and a list of other health issues.

As a result of carpets questionable health effects from its ability to trap dust and dirt particle, which collect in the fibers of the flooring itself, it is easy to see why it is being faded out. Unlike carpet, engineered hardwood floors don’t trap dust, mold, and dust spores on the surface, creating a cleaner indoor environment over the long term.

4. Easy to Install and Maintain

For property managers, there’s a fine line between giving your renters everything they want and maintaining a profitable investment. Because engineered hardwood is easy (and affordable) to purchase and install, it’s a budget-friendly floor covering for investors. Finally, engineered wood is easier to maintain than carpet because it doesn’t hold moisture and stains, and only needs to be swept and mopped periodically, as opposed to carpet, which should be vacuumed weekly and professionally cleaned on an annual basis.

Although engineered flooring doesn’t solve the need for a more urban lifestyle or a reduced impact on the planet, it’s ability to offer an affordable but easy to maintain solution makes us think that it will be one of the most popular floor coverings in luxury rental units in the future.

If you have any questions about using engineered flooring for a multi-family structure, ask our flooring experts what plank style would