Solid vs. engineered hardwood flooring

Until the past few years, when someone heard the word "hardwood," their minds automatically turned to solid wood floors. Currently, engineered wood flooring is taking a major share of the wood flooring industry. That is because it appeals to those who want both beauty and practicality; please continue reading to find out more about both types.

Construction is the only difference between the two. Solid is, as it sounds, one thickness throughout the plank. Most of us know already how susceptible wood can be to moisture, so the planks expand when it's humid and shrink when it's cold. That creates cupping, crowning, and gaps. Acclimation is a simple but necessary process to eliminate this challenge.

Engineered is layered. At the top is a slice of genuine wood, with undertones, knots, and grains. Underneath are three or more authentic wood layers combined with a little resin and placed in a crosswise position. This gives the product more stability and an increased ability to handle water. No acclimation is necessary, and it can be installed in some higher-than-normal moisture areas where solid cannot go.

Like solid, it can be sanded and adds value to a property. The two can have different installation techniques, however. Solid is a tongue and groove, and it must be nailed, and because of the dampness issue, it cannot be installed over a concrete subfloor. Moisture readings are also necessary throughout the process. Engineered also offers a floating floor where the pieces click together and then hover over the subfloor. Concrete subfloors are fine.