Engineered hardwood flooring is another version of hardwood.  The only difference between that and solid is that it has different construction, making it more stable and better able to handle water. It is now taking a major share of the wood flooring industry because it appeals to people who want both beauty and practicality.

Ask your hardwood flooring retailer to show you samples.

Engineered hardwood vs solid

Solid, as it sounds, is one thickness throughout so the fibers lie in a sort of parallel position.  Any wood can be damaged by excess water and humidity; the planks expand, causing cupping, crowning, and warping. Alternatively, the planks can shrink when the weather is cool and dry; this causes gaps and squeaking. While all of this can be easily eliminated with a fairly easy process called acclimation, some people gravitate toward engineered where no acclimation is ever needed.

Engineered wood floors are layered.  At the top is a slab of authentic wood species, giving it the beautiful undertones and interesting knots and other visuals that we’ve come to expect.  Underneath are three or more layers of real wood, combined with a little resin and then positioned in a crosswise manner.  It is this placement that makes the floor more stable.  Like solid, it can be refinished, sanded, and adds real estate value.  Unlike solid, it has a little more versatility in installation possibilities, such as in powder rooms, half baths, or below-grade levels.

Installation is also different

The Solid is a tongue and groove, then it is nailed, stapled, or glued.  Subfloor restoration can be extensive, and it should not be placed over concrete, known for the tendency to be damp.  The installer will take subfloor moisture readings before the wood is placed.

Engineered hardwood also offers a floating floor technique.  Pieces click together to form a mat, then hover over the subfloor which can be concrete or any other material.  It is, however, often recommended to use an underlayment and possibly a vapor barrier.  Since floating floors hover, it is an underlayment that provides stability and foundation.

Want to know more about this hardwood flooring? Come into the Cherokee Floor Covering showroom in Woodstock, GA., especially if you live in the greater metropolitan Atlanta area such as Woodstock, Marietta, Canton, Acworth, and Kennesaw. We’ll be happy to give you a free estimate on your wood floors.