Solid Hardwood vs. Engineered Hardwood Floors

Are you in the market for new hardwood flooring in Flint, MI? You might not realize that you have the choice between solid hardwood and engineered wood—or even that engineered wood exists. Solid hardwood is, obviously, 100 percent hardwood, while engineered hardwood is made up of layers, the top and bottom layers being 100 percent natural wood and the middle five to seven layers being plywood that crisscrosses in multiple directions.

Both of these options can be highly valuable and attractive in your home. But how exactly do they compare, and what factors should you examine when making your flooring choice? Here are some of those factors you should take into account.

Design options

With solid hardwood, you’ll find a massive selection that allows you to create just about any type of personal style you’re looking for in your home. Boards are generally available up to 5” wide, which falls between extra-wide plank looks and more classic flooring.

With engineered hardwood, you’re going to have more options with regard to the width of the planks, because you don’t have to have natural boards that are those extra-wide sizes. You’ll be able to find flooring in a wide range of styles as well, from traditional to specialty designs with multi-tonal colors.

Versatility

Solid hardwood is a great choice for your main floor or second floor, and can really bring your living spaces to life. Engineered hardwood can be installed in places where solid hardwood cannot, such as over concrete floors in basements or on top of radiant heating systems, making them a little more versatile.

Durability

Solid hardwood is known as a long-lasting type of flooring, and can be sanded and refinished multiple times over the course of its life. Its construction will also hold up very well over time. The durability can slightly vary based on the wood species and the type of finish used, and some species are more dent resistant than others, but in general you won’t have any problems finding extremely durable hardwood options.

Engineered hardwood can be sanded and refinished several times, but not as many times as solid hardwood. However, engineered hardwood can hold up to moisture and humidity better than standard hardwood, as its layered construction protects against environmental changes.

Sound and feel

Solid hardwood sounds and feels, as one might expect, quite solid. Engineered hardwood sounds a bit more hollow, though the types of installation methods you use can change that.

Cost

Solid hardwood is essentially the premium option in flooring, which means it’s likely going to be the most expensive option you can find, though there are some variables to consider, including the type of wood, the warranty, the protective finish and other processes used to achieve the look of the boards. Engineered hardwood is less expensive, though there are some premium types of engineered wood that have thicker top layers or unique designs.

For more information about choosing between engineered hardwood and solid hardwood, contact Glenn’s Tile & Carpet to learn about our collection of hardwood flooring in Flint, MI.

Categorised in: Hardwood Flooring