What is the difference between solid and engineered hardwood flooring?
Most people are familiar with the traditional solid hardwood flooring. However, many may not know about engineered hardwood flooring. Engineered hardwood floors are taking a significant share of the market because they appeal to homeowners for their beauty and practicality.
Construction differences
Solid hardwood is a single thickness throughout the plank. Engineered hardwood is different and has layers to it. It has the species of your choice on top, be it cherry, oak, or maple. This layer has all the undertones and grains, and knots that we expect to see in a hardwood floor. Underneath this layer is three pieces of wood combined with resin in a crosswise position. These crosspieces give the floor stability and the ability to handle moisture.
Engineered hardwood has more installation possibilities in higher-than-normal moisture areas, such as basements. It doesn?t need acclimation. As most people know, wood can be affected by the humidity of a room, and solid wood can expand or shrink when the humidity changes. Acclimation is a simple procedure that is necessary. It keeps the wood from cupping, warping, and crowning. However, engineered wood doesn?t move in humid environments.
Thicker is better
Thickness for solid and engineered hardwood can determine how many times the floor can be sanded and refinished. The ideal for solid is ? inch. This means it can be sanded up to six times. Engineered flooring can be between 5/8" and ?." It can usually be sanded up to five times.
Installation
The installation process between solid and engineered hardwood is different. Solid hardwood is a tongue-and-groove with a nail down. You may have to get the subfloor restored and repaired and have moisture readings. Engineered hardwood can be a floating floor over the subfloor. The pieces click together quickly. Of course, all wood floors will add value to the property.
Southern Flooring and Design is here to help you with your wood flooring project. We are a hardwood flooring company that knows the ins and outs of hardwood floors with two showrooms: one in Tallahassee and Crawfordville, FL. We serve the areas of Wakulla Springs, Woodville, Midway, Bradfordville, Sopchoppy, and Quincy. So if you want solid hardwood flooring or engineered hardwood flooring, we can help you with either one. Visit our showroom today and talk to our staff about your needs.
