You’ve scoured the Internet, poured over catalogs and even went to another flooring company to see what the deal is with engineered hardwood and how it’s different from solid hardwood. Yet, you seem to be not getting the answers you want. Relax, we have all the information you’ll ever need when you’re determining what option would best suit your home.
Engineered Hardwood
What makes engineered hardwood different than its solid hardwood relative is that engineered wood has a core that can be hardwood, plywood or high-density fiber. The top layer is typically made of a hardwood veneer. All of these layers are glued together for added sturdiness. This is the ideal flooring to be installed on top of concrete because its makeup is different than that of hardwood. Or engineered hardwood can even be installed as a floating floor over an already existing floor, such as vinyl or tile.
For a long-lasting floor with dimensional stability, engineered hardwood is a great choice. With the top layer being a hardwood veneer, it is a thicker layer than the lower ones, meaning it can stand up to the toughest of spills and foot traffic. Like any flooring, normal wear and tear will occur with engineered hardwood. But this floor can last up to about 50 years with regular care.
Solid Hardwood
While engineered hardwood does withstand moisture better than solid hardwood, that doesn’t mean there aren’t any benefits to solid hardwood. It depends on where you’re wanting to install such a flooring. Made entirely of wood from top to bottom, solid hardwood can be sanded and refinished over the years, whereas engineered wood cannot. There are different levels of hardness in hardwood floors. Hardwood that can stand up to the normal occurrences (and the surprises) of life, meaning this is a floor that is long lasting and durable.
Since solid hardwood is a natural material, appearance can differ in all varieties of wood. Species, color, stain and style all vary, which means you have a multitude of choices when looking at solid hardwood. To keep these floors looking polished, some upkeep is involved. Going over hardwood with a dry mop or vacuum regularly will get rid of any unwanted dirt or dust. With proper care, hardwood floors can last for lifetimes.
That’s the gist when it comes down to engineered hardwood versus solid hardwood. These floors are similar, yet have some differences about them, so it is important to know what you’re looking for and what part of the home you need floor in when it comes to hardwood. |
