Solid vs Engineered Hardwood Floors – Which One Should You Choose?

Are you planning to revamp your flooring and can’t decide between a hardwood solid floor, or a hardwood engineered floor? Choosing between the two can be quite a daunting task, but don't worry, we’ve got you covered. In this post, we’ll discuss the advantages and disadvantages of each flooring type, and help you choose the one that best suits your preferences.

Solid Hardwood Floors:  The biggest advantage of a solid hardwood floor is that as it ages or styles change, it can be sanded, stained, and finished multiple times to update its look. Unfortunately, the disadvantage is that it requires a wood subfloor, which may be a problem for homeowners who are renovating areas that have concrete subfloors instead of plywood subfloors. Solid hardwood floors are also less stable than engineered hardwood floors. They tend to expand and contract more when exposed to moisture or dryness and require consistent humidity control. If the humidity changes drastically, it can cause the floor to gap, “cup” or “buckle” easily, which is not a desirable outcome.

Engineered Hardwood Floors:  One of the advantages of an engineered hardwood floor is that it can be installed directly over a concrete subfloor. Moreover, it is more stable than the solid hardwood floor, and hence less likely to “cup,” “gap,” or “buckle.” They also cost a little less in comparison to solid hardwood floors. However, the disadvantage of engineered hardwood floors is that usually, it can be sanded, stained, and finished only once, depending on the wear layer. The wear layer is the amount of actual hardwood at the top surface, and some engineered hardwood may not be able to be refinished at all. Another issue with engineered hardwood floors is that if the manufacturer has used a softer wood under the wear layer, the floor is susceptible to dent easily.

The Best Option:  Both engineered, and solid floors have their advantages and disadvantages, but ultimately, the deciding factor should be your preference and needs. If you prioritize flexibility and the ability to update your flooring frequently, a solid hardwood floor would be the best option. If stability and ease of installation are important to you, and you don’t mind a more limited number of updates, an engineered floor might be the right choice.

Maintenance:  Whichever flooring type you choose, it is essential to follow the manufacturer's maintenance instructions to keep your floors in great condition. Solid hardwood floors should be swept, and damp mopped regularly, and engineered floors usually require a little less maintenance. It's also critical to be mindful of moisture content in your home, regardless of the type of flooring you choose.

In summary, choosing a hardwood flooring type ultimately depends on your preferences, budget, and the design of your home. Both are excellent options and come with their own set of pros and cons. By weighing up these pros and cons against your needs, you should be able to choose the type of hardwood flooring that's most suitable for you. Remember, whatever you choose, a good hardwood floor can last for decades, providing an elegant and warm underfoot feeling that's hard to beat!

Learn about your options at: www.wizardflooring.com

847-540-9500

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