Engineered vs. Solid Hardwood: The Battle of the Floors

There are many different ways that you can spice your home up, both when it comes to the visual aspect, but also the functionality. Something that can accomplish both things at once is getting new flooring done, but what kind exactly? There are so many different options and sources to get it from. You might be looking at a product from somewhere far away or you might just be searching locally for something in your city. Considering this for your house, as in a hardwood floor Oliver BC it can be quite tricky. When it comes to choosing the right type of hardwood flooring for your home, you may find yourself faced with a decision between engineered hardwood and solid hardwood. Both options have their advantages and considerations, so let’s delve into the battle of the floors. 

Solid Hardwood

Solid hardwood is exactly what it sounds like—a solid piece of wood throughout. It is typically made from a single species of hardwood, such as oak, maple, or cherry. Here are some key points to consider about solid hardwood:

1. Authenticity: Solid hardwood offers a timeless and authentic look. The natural variations in grain patterns and color give each piece a unique character. Even the best-engineered hardwood will find it hard to compete with solid hardwood in this aspect.

2. Durability: Solid hardwood is highly durable and can be sanded and refinished multiple times over its lifetime. This allows you to refresh the appearance of the floor and remove any surface damage. While this does take some maintenance, it also means that proper care of your hardwood can make it so that it lasts an incredible amount of time.

3. Moisture Sensitivity: Solid hardwood is sensitive to changes in humidity and moisture. It can expand or contract, leading to issues like warping or buckling. It is not recommended for areas with high humidity, such as basements or bathrooms. It is also generally worse in some climates due to this sadly.

Engineered Hardwood:

Engineered hardwood is constructed by layering thin veneers of real hardwood on top of high-quality plywood or fiberboard. Here are some considerations for engineered hardwood:

1. Stability: Engineered hardwood is more stable than solid hardwood due to its layered construction. It is less prone to expansion and contraction caused by changes in humidity. This makes it suitable for areas with fluctuating moisture levels. It’s incredibly resistant to various kinds of conditions, making it an easy pick if you’re unsure whether other options are suitable.

2. Versatility: Engineered hardwood can be installed in various locations, including basements and below-grade areas, where solid hardwood may not be suitable due to moisture concerns. As previously mentioned, it can pretty much go anywhere which makes it a great secondary choice.

3. Appearance: Engineered hardwood can provide a similar aesthetic to solid hardwood. The top veneer layer is made from real wood, giving it an authentic look. However, it may lack the depth and character of solid hardwood. Considering its other qualities though, it does have a pretty good appearance for what it is, and it certainly won’t look bad if properly installed.

4. Refinishing: Depending on the thickness of the top veneer layer, engineered hardwood can be sanded and refinished a limited number of times. Thicker veneers allow for more refinishing options.

Choosing the Right Option:

The decision between engineered and solid hardwood ultimately depends on your specific needs and circumstances. It isn’t as simple of a decision as some may initially think, which means that you will need to carefully weigh several different things in order to come to the final conclusion. While there are many different aspects that make up this choice, we’ll cover some of the most important ones. Consider the following factors:

1. Location: Determine whether the area where you plan to install the flooring is prone to moisture or humidity. If so, engineered hardwood may be a more suitable choice.

2.  Budget: Engineered hardwood tends to be more cost-effective than solid hardwood, especially for exotic wood species. Consider your budget and choose accordingly.

3. Longevity: If you prioritize the ability to refinish the floors multiple times, solid hardwood may be the better option. However, if you prefer a floor that requires less maintenance and can withstand moisture, engineered hardwood might be the way to go.
4. In the end, both engineered and solid hardwood have their merits. Assess your needs, preferences, and the conditions of your space to make an informed decision. Remember to consult with flooring professionals or experts for personalized advice based on your specific situation. It’s anything but an easy decision to make, but we’re certain that it will be well worth the effort in the end as good flooring can really make a world of difference in many ways, especially if you make sure to pick the perfect one for your home.

Photo by Francesca Tosolini on Unsplash