Solid vs. Engineered Hardwood Flooring: Which is Best?  

If you are looking to add beauty and warmth to your living space, then nothing compares to genuine hardwood floors. Solid and engineered hardwood flooring are both made from one hundred percent real wood. However, there are still some significant differences in their overall properties.  

As a matter of fact, engineered hardwood flooring behaves a little differently than hardwood flooring is solid. In addition to that, they tend to be much easier to install and they are often more affordable compared to solid hardwood flooring materials.  

But, not all hardwood floors are created equal. Basing on the species or type of wood the floor is made from will actually determine what kind of performance qualities as well as durability it has. Understanding these primary differences will definitely go a long way in order to help you decide what type of hardwood flooring material is right for your residential property.   

Solid Hardwood vs. Engineered Hardwood   

Solid hardwood flooring is just that – they are solely made solid hardwood. Every board of solid wood flooring is actually from a hardwood’s single piece that is about ¾” thick. Since it is so thick, it can be easily sanded down as well as refinished according to your preference or for however long the floor is in the home.  

Engineered hardwood flooring, on the other hand, is a resilient and versatile flooring option, which can be installed in almost any area of your home. Since engineered hardwood flooring is also made of genuine wood, this type of floor can definitely give your house an updated feel and look. Furthermore, engineered hardwood flooring is primarily made of a core of plywood or hardwood with a hardwood veneer layer affixed to its top surface. What’s good about engineered hardwood flooring is that it is resistant to heat and moisture compared to solid hardwood flooring.  

Recommended Areas in the House Where You Can Install Hardwood Flooring  

Solid hardwood flooring contracts and expands in reaction to changes in temperature and moisture, which means solid hardwood flooring is only recommended for rooms that are only at ground level or above.   

On the other hand, the engineered hardwood flooring’s unique construction creates a structure that’s less likely to gap, buckle, or even react to changes in temperature and humidity. As a matter of fact, you can be able to install engineered hardwood flooring on almost any level, including areas below the ground. Certainly, it is a really great choice for bathrooms and finished basements.  

Engineered Hardwood Flooring vs. Solid Hardwood Flooring Performance  

Both engineered and solid hardwood flooring is primarily designed for durability and beauty. Their very tough and durable surface can definitely stand up to active houses. But, both engineered and solid floors also have different performance attributes.  

Engineered hardwood flooring has enhanced stability that provides more resistance to daily wear and tears as well as to rippling or buckling. On the other hand, solid hardwood flooring is prone to expanding or shrinking based on humidity levels, which is why they are permanently nailed to the subfloor.  

No matter what hardwood flooring material you choose to use in your home, it’s important that you only hire a professional and skilled flooring contractor to install or repair your hardwood flooring.