What is the difference between solid and engineered hardwood floors?

Hardwood flooring is a timeless option that continues to gain popularity when remodeling or building a new home. The most common types of hardwood floors are solid and engineered. You may find yourself asking, what is the difference between solid and engineered hardwood floors?

To help answer this question, we discuss the top five differences between the two types of hardwoods:

How They’re Made

The biggest difference between engineered and solid hardwoods is how these types of floors are made. Engineered hardwood is made by attaching a veneer of real hardwood over a core board or plyboard center, thus giving it more durability and temperature resistance. Solid hardwood is made completely out of real, natural hardwood.

Durability

Hardwoods are known for their durability and ability to withstand the time. Due to the differences in their construction, engineered hardwood is more durable in rooms with radiant heat, moisture, or cement subfloors (such as a basement). Since solid hardwood is a completely natural product, it is durable, but requires maintenance to avoid cracking, expansion and other damages. Adding a surface finish can help to lessen the damages and protect the floor for longer.

Climate Change

You might not think that the weather can affect your flooring, but it is a serious factor to consider when deciding on which flooring type to go with. Engineered hardwood is constructed to work well in climates that change frequently or are extreme. The plywood core prevents large expansions or contractions due to weather. On the other hand, solid hardwood can cup, expand, and buckle as the temperatures fluctuate since it is a natural product that absorbs moisture and humidity.

Uniformity

Beauty is another huge reason hardwoods are such a popular option when it comes to flooring. With natural wood, you will get varied patterns and grains. With engineered hardwood, you will find a more uniformed look between planks. Solid hardwood is better known for its unique composition and varied grains.

Price

Generally, engineered hardwood is more cost effective than solid hardwood. Engineered hardwood is cheaper to produce and also allows for DIY installation and long-term maintenance. Solid hardwoods usually require professional installation that can increase your budget for a flooring project, as well as re-finishing down the line.

Which is Right for You?

Deciding between engineered hardwood and solid hardwood isn’t always easy. However, if you live in a climate with high temperatures and humidity, engineered hardwood is the way to go. This type of flooring will mimic the look of solid hardwood and stay looking spectacular for years to come. Both engineered hardwood and solid hardwood create a beautiful hardwood look in your home and can also help to increase the value of your home.

Which flooring would you go with?

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