hardwood flooring

Solid or Engineered Hardwood Flooring? Let's Clarify the Basics!

In this short yet informative guide, we clarify the basics of engineered hardwood flooring (EHF). Baton Rouge homeowners may not know which option they'd like for their home, solid or EHF. The truth is, it all comes down to factors like home design, budget, and lifestyle. At Wholesale Flooring & Granite, we invite you to come down to our Baton Rouge, LA showroom, to chat with our on-site pros, so you can decide if engineered hardwood flooring is indeed the ideal option for your reno. 

Solid Versus EHF

When selecting the ideal option for your home, you can choose between solid or EHF. The reality is, one material is not better than the other, simply different. 

Equally Sturdy and Customizable

While the traditional version consists of planks of solid wood, the EHF variety is equally sturdy and just as customizable. Color, varnish, sanding; those are all things you can do with either surfacing material. Should your style or home decor ever change, you'll be able to redo the surfacing as well without issue. In essence, you'll never have to worry about the planks being outdated, because you'll always be able to update it as need be. 

Both Options are Structurally Sound

The best engineered hardwood flooring is created by laminating several strips together to form sturdy, secure planks, normally 3-5 strips. Available in a wide variety of wood types and color choices, EHF is just as structurally sound as its solid counterpart. 

Differences in Water Resistance Levels

Typically, however, EHF is used in areas that may have more moisture or humidity, as it has a proven track record of water resistance. So, for instance, if you're in search of a hard surface option for your basement, then you may want to consider EHF. Mudrooms and entryways, on the other hand, don't see vast amounts of water, yet they do see more dirt and mud tracked in than other parts of the home. As such, these are great places to add EHF as well.

Differing Price Tags

Cost-wise, there is indeed a considerable difference between both options. Quickly, you'll notice that the traditional, solid selection is more expensive than EHF. Thus, many homeowners opt for EHS as it is, in fact, more affordable. When working within a budget, the lower price tag is especially handy.