Choosing Engineered Hardwood Over Other Types of Flooring
Once considered a secondary option, engineered hardwood has quickly become one of the most popular flooring choices. It combines the natural beauty of solid wood with enhanced durability and versatility, making it ideal for modern homes. If you want the look of real wood, no laminate or vinyl floor can truly match the depth and character of solid or engineered hardwood. Here’s why engineered hardwood might be the perfect choice for your home.
It’s Real Wood
A common misconception is that engineered hardwood isn’t “real wood.” In fact, it is 100% authentic wood.
Engineered hardwood is composed of multiple layers, with a top layer made from a single piece of wood. This top layer is essentially the same quality as a solid hardwood plank. The main difference is its thickness. Like solid wood, it can be sanded to remove scratches and dents. Unlike laminate or vinyl, the wood’s natural grain, color variation, and character are fully visible, giving your floor an authentic look and feel.
Superior Stability
The top layer of engineered wood is bonded to a plywood core that’s compressed under heat and pressure. This core adds stability, making engineered hardwood resistant to changes in humidity.
You don’t have to worry about planks shrinking in the winter or expanding in the summer, a common problem with solid wood. This stability ensures that your floor looks beautiful and lasts for decades, even in areas where humidity fluctuates.
Easier Installation
Engineered hardwood is more flexible when it comes to installation. It can be:
- Nailed, stapled, or glued
- Floated above an existing floor
In contrast, solid wood must be nailed or glued to a wood subfloor and cannot be installed over concrete or in areas with high moisture. Engineered hardwood’s plywood core makes it compatible with more surfaces, giving you more options for your space.
Cost-Effective
While engineered hardwood planks are slightly less expensive than solid wood, the overall installation cost is often significantly lower.
Solid wood floors typically require professional installation to prevent issues like warping or shrinking, whereas engineered hardwood can often be installed as a DIY project over a weekend. This can save both time and money on materials and labor.
Summary
If you want the look and feel of real wood without the limitations of solid hardwood, engineered hardwood is an excellent choice. Both solid and engineered hardwood:
- Use 100% real wood
- Can be sanded to remove scratches and dents
- Offer a timeless, natural wood aesthetic
But engineered hardwood provides:
- Greater stability against humidity changes
- More installation options, including concrete or below-grade floors
- Lower overall installation costs
For a floor that combines beauty, durability, and flexibility, engineered hardwood is the clear choice.
Browse our engineered hardwood flooring here. If you have questions or want guidance on choosing the perfect floor, contact us today. Our team is happy to help!