When you are searching for the perfect wood flooring for your home or business, you may be presented with the decision between solid or engineered hardwood flooring. While engineered hardwood flooring is a popular substitute for solid hardwood, not everyone prefers this alternative. Here are five significant differences between these types of premium hardwood flooring.
Construction
As its name suggests, solid hardwood flooring is constructed entirely of wood. Engineered flooring is made from a thin slice of hardwood atop a plywood base.
Thickness
Typically, planks of solid hardwood are ¾ inches thick. Engineered hardwood is 3/8 to ½ inch thick.
Wood Species
There are many types of natural hardwood species, including red oak, white oak, pine, hickory, and maple. There are fewer types of engineered hardwood species, and common types include red oak, hickory, and Brazilian cherry.
Installation
During installation, solid hardwood flooring is nailed or stapled to the floor. It is never installed on a floating basis. Engineered hardwood is easier to install, as it can be glued, stapled, nailed, or click-locked into place.
Cost
In general, engineered hardwood tends to be less expensive than solid hardwood, which is known as the gold standard in flooring. There are many variables, however, as there are premium collections of engineered hardwood available that include intricate designs and enhanced durability.
Construction
As its name suggests, solid hardwood flooring is constructed entirely of wood. Engineered flooring is made from a thin slice of hardwood atop a plywood base.
Thickness
Typically, planks of solid hardwood are ¾ inches thick. Engineered hardwood is 3/8 to ½ inch thick.
Wood Species
There are many types of natural hardwood species, including red oak, white oak, pine, hickory, and maple. There are fewer types of engineered hardwood species, and common types include red oak, hickory, and Brazilian cherry.
Installation
During installation, solid hardwood flooring is nailed or stapled to the floor. It is never installed on a floating basis. Engineered hardwood is easier to install, as it can be glued, stapled, nailed, or click-locked into place.
Cost
In general, engineered hardwood tends to be less expensive than solid hardwood, which is known as the gold standard in flooring. There are many variables, however, as there are premium collections of engineered hardwood available that include intricate designs and enhanced durability.
