How are solid and engineered hardwood flooring different?
Both solid and engineered wood floors look similar to oak, maple, hickory, or other species on the surface. However, each comes with gorgeous undertones (secondary colors), knots, swirls, grains, and all the things that give any hardwood flooring elegance and character. Here are five ways engineered differs from solid but, as always, feel free to come into our hardwood flooring company if you have questions.
Whether you choose engineered or solid hardwood flooring, you can be sure of getting a high-quality, craftsman-like surface. For more than 30 years, Carpet Depot Home Center has been the most trusted flooring provider in Claysburg, PA. Visit our showroom in Claysburg, PA, for information and a free quote. We service Duncansville, Pleasantville, Blair County, Bedford County, Cambria County.
Both solid and engineered wood floors look similar to oak, maple, hickory, or other species on the surface. However, each comes with gorgeous undertones (secondary colors), knots, swirls, grains, and all the things that give any hardwood flooring elegance and character. Here are five ways engineered differs from solid but, as always, feel free to come into our hardwood flooring company if you have questions.
- Construction
While solid hardwood flooring is just that, one thickness throughout, engineered is layered. Underneath are three or more sheets of wood, combined with a bit of resin and then placed in a crosswise position. This results in a more stable floor with a better ability to handle water, and engineered wood is now taking over a significant share of the wood flooring industry; it appeals to those who want both beauty and practicality. - Versatility
Because it is more stable, it can be installed in higher-than-normal moisture areas where solid cannot go, such as in below-grade levels, like the basement. - Installation technique
While solid is always a traditional tongue and groove/nail down, sometimes requiring subfloor repair and restoration, engineered can be also be installed as a floating floor. When a floor floats, the pieces click together, mat, then hover over the subfloor without nails or glue and can also be installed over most subfloors, including concrete slabs, as long as they're clean dry, and level. - Thickness
While solid's ideal thickness is ¾-inch, engineered comes in a range from ⅜-inch to ½-inch. Thicker is better since it determines how many times the floor can be refinished. - Price
Engineered is somewhat less expensive, possibly due to the less complicated installation.
Whether you choose engineered or solid hardwood flooring, you can be sure of getting a high-quality, craftsman-like surface. For more than 30 years, Carpet Depot Home Center has been the most trusted flooring provider in Claysburg, PA. Visit our showroom in Claysburg, PA, for information and a free quote. We service Duncansville, Pleasantville, Blair County, Bedford County, Cambria County.