Solid vs. Engineered Hardwood: Which Flooring is Best for Your Home?

Solid vs. Engineered Hardwood Flooring - Which is Right for You?

When it comes to choosing the perfect flooring for your home, one of the most important decisions you'll make is between solid and engineered hardwood. At The Flooring Guys of Central Florida, we understand that this decision can be overwhelming, so we're here to break it down for you. Let's explore the key differences between these two types of hardwood flooring, so you can make an informed choice that suits your needs.

What is Solid Hardwood?

Solid hardwood floors are classic and timeless. These floors are made from solid pieces of wood that are typically 3/4 of an inch thick. The boards are cut directly from the tree and then molded and planed to perfection. One of the defining features of solid hardwood is the tongue and groove system along the sides and ends of each board, which helps them fit together seamlessly.

To prevent warping, solid hardwood floors have grooves cut into the bottom of each board. These grooves relieve pressure and keep the boards straight until they're installed. Solid hardwood is available in a wide range of widths, from as narrow as 3/4 of an inch to as wide as 10 inches, though most mills limit their offerings to avoid issues with warping.

The wear layer on solid hardwood is about a quarter of an inch thick, which allows for multiple sanding over the floor's lifespan. This makes solid hardwood a durable option that can last for generations, especially when properly maintained.

What is Engineered Hardwood?

Engineered hardwood is a more modern alternative that offers some distinct advantages. This type of flooring consists of a thin layer of hardwood veneer glued to a plywood backing. The plywood provides stability and prevents the flooring from warping, making engineered hardwood an excellent choice for areas with fluctuating moisture levels.

Engineered hardwood can range in thickness from 3/8 of an inch to a full 3/4 inch, just like solid hardwood. The surface of engineered hardwood looks identical to solid hardwood, but its construction gives it enhanced stability. Engineered boards also use a tongue and groove system, making installation easier.

One of the benefits of engineered hardwood is the variety of widths available, with some boards as wide as 20 inches. The thickness and quality of the top veneer layer can vary, so it's important to choose a product with a wear layer of at least 6 millimeters to ensure durability.

Comparing Installation, Stability, Durability, and Price

1. Ease of Installation: Engineered hardwood typically wins in this category. Its plywood backing provides stability, making it easier to install with a tight fit. Solid hardwood, while durable, can be more challenging to install due to natural bends in the wood.

2. Stability Over Time: Engineered hardwood is more stable, especially in environments with fluctuating moisture levels. The plywood backing prevents the flooring from swelling or shrinking, which can cause solid hardwood to warp.

3. Durability: Both types of flooring can be highly durable, especially when choosing high-quality products. Solid hardwood offers a wear layer of about 6 millimeters, allowing for multiple refinishes over its lifetime. Similarly, engineered hardwood with a 6-millimeter wear layer can also be refinished several times.

4. Price: Price is a significant factor for many homeowners. Engineered hardwood tends to be about 20% more expensive than solid hardwood due to the additional manufacturing processes involved.

Which Should You Choose?

In summary, if you're looking for wider planks or need flooring for an area with variable moisture levels, engineered hardwood is a great choice—if it fits your budget. For more standard plank widths and a classic look, solid hardwood is a cost-effective option that will stand the test of time.

At The Flooring Guys of Central Florida, we're here to help you find the perfect flooring solution for your home. Whether you choose solid or engineered hardwood, our team of licensed and insured contractors will deliver beautiful results with expert installation and repair services. Contact us today for a free consultation, and let’s start transforming your space!