When selecting hardwood flooring, two major types come to mind: traditional solid hardwood and its counterpart, engineered hardwood flooring. While both offer the undeniable beauty and value of real wood, they have distinct differences that make one a better choice depending on your home and your needs. Let's explore when engineered hardwood flooring might be the superior pick.
Understanding engineered wood flooring
Engineered hardwood isn't fake wood. It boasts a top layer of genuine hardwood, the part you see and walk on. This layer, or veneer, is bonded to a sturdy core made of plywood or high-density fiberboard. This layered construction offers a key advantage: superior stability.
Engineered hardwood vs. solid: stability in changing environments
Solid wood floors, as a single piece of wood, are more susceptible to expanding and contracting in response to temperature and humidity changes. Engineered hardwood's layered construction offers superior dimensional stability, making it less likely to warp, cup, or buckle when conditions fluctuate. This makes it a preferred choice for:
- Basements and below-grade areas: Basements are often prone to slightly higher humidity. Engineered hardwood flooring handles this better than solid wood.
- Areas with radiant heat: Engineered wood flooring fares better when installed over radiant heating systems, maintaining its integrity despite temperature changes.
- Concrete subfloors: The stability of engineered hardwood makes it suitable for direct installation over concrete.
Engineered hardwood: more than just stability
Here's why more homeowners are opting for engineered hardwood flooring:
- Wider planks: The construction allows for wider planks than are often possible with solid wood, creating a modern look.
- Versatility: Some types of engineered wood flooring can be installed in bathrooms or humid climates where solid hardwood cannot.
- Affordability: Engineered hardwood can be more budget-friendly while still providing the look of luxurious hardwood.
- Ease of installation: Engineered hardwood often comes with click-lock systems, making installation easier, especially for DIYers.
Not the right choice for everyone
Engineered hardwood flooring, while excellent, isn't always the perfect fit. Solid hardwood may still be preferred if:
- Refinishing over the decades: Solid hardwood offers more material to work with, making it refinishable more times throughout its lifespan.
- The "forever" flooring: If you plan to stay in your home for an extremely long time, the long-term refinishing advantage of solid wood floors might be appealing.
The right choice for you
Choosing between engineered and solid hardwood flooring comes down to your home's environment and your individual needs. If you crave a wood floor in any room of your home, want the latest designs, or value easy installation, engineered hardwood could be the perfect solution.
Your experts on solid and engineered wood floors in Baton Rouge, LA
Visit Wholesale Flooring & Granite for expert guidance! We'll help you understand your options and select the ideal solid or engineered hardwood flooring for your beautiful home. Our flooring store in Baton Rouge, LA, serves Baton Rouge, Denham Springs, Ascension Parish, Baker, and surrounding areas.
