When renovating or building a home, choosing the right flooring is crucial for both aesthetics and functionality. Engineered hardwood flooring, a popular choice among homeowners, offers a balance of beauty and practicality. This blog compares engineered hardwood with other common flooring products, helping you make an informed decision.
Engineered hardwood vs. solid hardwood floors
Engineered hardwood is often confused with solid hardwood, but there are key differences. Engineered hardwood flooring has a thin layer of hardwood atop a core of high-quality plywood, making it more stable and less prone to warping in varying humidity levels than solid hardwood. It's an excellent choice for areas with fluctuating temperatures and moisture, like basements or over concrete slabs. Solid hardwood, while offering timeless appeal and durability, requires more attention to humidity and temperature control.
Durability and maintenance
When it comes to durability, engineered wood flooring stands out. It's designed to resist moisture and temperature changes, reducing the likelihood of warping or splitting. Maintenance is straightforward – regular sweeping and mopping with a damp (not wet) mop will keep it looking new. In contrast, options like vinyl or laminate may offer higher resistance to scratches and moisture, but they lack the natural warmth and longevity of real wood.
Installation versatility
One of the biggest advantages of engineered hardwood flooring is its installation versatility. It can be installed over various subfloors, including concrete, and can be glued, nailed, or floated, depending on the product. This flexibility is not always possible with solid hardwood, which often requires a specific type of subfloor and installation method.
Environmental impact
Engineered wood floors are an eco-friendly choice. The veneer is sourced from real hardwood, but because it's thinner, it uses less of the tree compared to solid hardwood. Additionally, the plywood base is typically made from fast-growing, sustainable species.
Style and resale value
Engineered wood flooring provides a wide range of styles, finishes, and species, matching any decor. Like solid hardwood, it adds significant resale value to your home, often more than synthetic options like laminate or vinyl.
Visit us for top-quality engineered wood flooring in Baton Rouge, LA
Engineered hardwood flooring offers a fantastic blend of durability, style, and environmental friendliness, making it an excellent floor covering for modern homes. Give thought to your specific needs and the unique characteristics of each flooring type to make the best choice for your space.
Contact Wholesale Flooring & Granite is here for your flooring solutions. Our flooring store in Baton Rouge, LA, serves Baton Rouge, Denham Springs, Ascension Parish, Baker, and surrounding areas.
