Engineered hardwood and solid hardwood are two different types of wood flooring that have distinct advantages over one another. As a homeowner, it’s important to understand the difference between engineered hardwood and solid hardwood. That way you can make an informed decision when choosing new flooring for your home. You may be asking yourself, “What is engineered hardwood vs. solid hardwood?”
At G3 Hardwood Flooring, a hardwood flooring company in Colorado Springs, we specialize in the best hardwood flooring services. From installation, refinishing, and maintenance, we do it all. Our team of experts is committed to helping you find the right flooring solution for your home. Depending on what you’re looking for from your hardwood floors, that might mean engineered hardwood or solid hardwood.
So let’s take a look at engineered hardwood vs. solid hardwood flooring.
What is Solid Wood Flooring?
Solid hardwood flooring is made from 100% hardwood material and consists of several layers of wood. This type of flooring offers long-term durability, a beautiful aesthetic, and great resale value for your home. It’s also one of the most traditional types of hardwoods used in homes.
Solid wood floors are susceptible to scratches, dents, warping due to moisture, and expansion/contraction when exposed to temperature extremes. It’s important to choose a high-quality finish that will protect the flooring over time.
Additionally, solid hardwood requires more maintenance than engineered hardwood. It needs to be regularly refinished or waxed in order to keep its luster.
What is Engineered Wood Flooring?
Engineered hardwood flooring, on the other hand, consists of several layers of wood: a center core layer, an inner core layer, and a top layer that makes up the finished surface. This type of flooring is more stable than solid hardwood because it’s designed to withstand temperature and humidity changes.
Engineered hardwood also offers a more natural look than solid wood flooring. However, it’s not as durable as solid hardwood. As a result, it can only be sanded and refinished once or twice in its lifetime. It is also more susceptible to scratches and dents due to its thin top layer of wood.
Comparing the Types of Wood Flooring
So which one is better: engineered hardwood vs. solid hardwood? The answer to that question is difficult. Let’s compare the key characteristics of each type of flooring first.
Cost
Engineered hardwood tends to be less expensive than solid hardwood because it contains less material. However, prices may vary depending on the quality of wood and finish you choose.
Lifespan
Engineered hardwood can last up to 25 years, while solid hardwood can last up to 40 years or more depending on how well it’s maintained.
Materials
Solid hardwood is made entirely of natural wood, while engineered hardwood contains several layers of different materials that are bonded together.
Appearance
Maintaining the aesthetic of your flooring is important, and both solid hardwood and engineered hardwood offer a variety of styles to choose from. It’s possible to find flooring that looks like traditional wood grain or modern designs with intricate patterns.
Moisture Resistance
Engineered hardwood is much more resistant to moisture than solid hardwood because its core layer helps prevent expansion and contraction due to temperature changes.
Durability
Solid hardwood is more durable than engineered hardwood because it can be sanded and refinished several times throughout its lifetime. However, engineered hardwood can only be refinished once or twice due to its thin top layer of wood.
Cleaning
Both types of flooring require regular sweeping and mopping with a damp cloth. However, solid hardwood floors may need to be waxed or refinished every few years in order for them to continue looking their best.
Installation
Engineered hardwood is easier to install than solid hardwood because it can be glued, nailed, or floated over a subfloor. Solid hardwood needs to be nailed or stapled down during installation.
Final Thoughts
Ultimately, the decision of whether to choose engineered hardwood vs. solid hardwood will depend on your budget, lifestyle, and the look you’re trying to achieve for your home. Both types of flooring provide a beautiful aesthetic, and both require regular maintenance in order to stay looking their best. The best way to decide is to examine the pros and cons of each type and choose which one makes the most sense for you.
Whichever type of flooring you select, a reputable flooring contractor can help you install it correctly and ensure that your investment lasts for many years to come.
Get Beautiful Looking Hardwood Floors with G3 Hardwood Flooring
Engineered hardwood and solid wood are both beautiful flooring options that can bring a unique aesthetic to your home. Before deciding on the type of wood flooring you want, be sure to research your options and their pros and cons. You can’t go wrong with either choice, but you’ll want to know what to expect and how to properly maintain your choice of flooring.
No matter if you decide to go with engineered or solid hardwood, G3 Hardwood Flooring is here to help! We offer a wide selection of both types of flooring so that you can find the perfect style and color for your home. Our certified installers have years of experience in installing hardwood floors and will ensure that the job is done right. Contact us today to learn more about all of your hardwood flooring options!
