Engineered Hardwood Flooring Charlotte, NC
When it comes to hardwood flooring you have two main options: solid hardwood flooring and engineered hardwood flooring. Today we’re going to discuss the differences between the two to help you make an educated decision as to which is the right choice for you and your space. We’re also going to place some focus on engineered hardwood flooring discussing the pros and cons of this flooring type, and what it is best used for. So let’s not waste another minute:
Engineered vs. Solid Hardwood Flooring – what’s the difference?
The main difference between engineered hardwood flooring and solid hardwood flooring is what they are made from. Solid hardwood flooring, as you may have expected, is made from a solid piece of hardwood. Engineered hardwood flooring, on the other hand, is made from a layer of hardwood combined with additional layers of other materials like plywood. Generally speaking, the layer of hardwood for engineered flooring is much thinner than that of solid hardwood, because it has additional types of materials added to it.
More about Engineered Hardwood Flooring
Engineered hardwood flooring does incorporate real wood into it, but it’s generally considered more stable than solid wood flooring. The main benefit of it’s laminate construction is that it’s more resistant to humidity than solid wood. In temperate climates, solid wood will shrink and contract based on the humidity levels. In return, this can lead to cracks and gaps in the wood. Engineered hardwood flooring, on the other hand, is created in a way that is resistant to humidity, which is what makes it the more popular choice in households today.
Engineered hardwood flooring comes in a variety of wood types including walnut, cherry, maple, and oak. It also comes in a variety of different finishes, and is available from hundreds of different manufacturers. In return, there is a lot of leeway in choice considerations, as well as in budget considerations.
The majority of engineered flooring is already prefinished and coated with UV cured polyurethane. Like solid hardwood flooring, engineered flooring can be glued or nailed down, but it can also come in the form of a “floating floor”. This is the do-it-yourself friendly option that allows you to simply snap the planks together. Floating floors can be installed directly over other flooring types (with the exception of thick carpeting), which also makes the DIY process a little simpler.
Why are so many people choosing Engineered Hardwood flooring?
Here are the pros of choosing engineered hardwood flooring:
- It’s more affordable than solid hardwood flooring
- It ‘s more resistant to humidity and temperate conditions
- It has several different installation options
- It’s more DIY friendly than solid hardwood flooring
- It comes in a variety of different types, widths, styles, and finishes
- It can be sanded and refinished
Of course, as amazing as engineered hardwood flooring can be, it’s not without it’s disadvantages as well.
Are you ready for a new beautiful hardwood flooring? New hardwood flooring will definitely increase the value of your home. Contact Zack Hardwood Flooring today to get your new hardwood flooring.