The Benefits of Installing Hardwood Flooring and What You Should Know Before You Buy [2/3]
Types Of Hardwood Flooring – Solid Wood Floors And Engineered Wood Floors
As mentioned earlier, hardwood flooring comes in two main types: solid wood floors and engineered wood floors. Here’s what you need to know about each type:
Solid Wood Floors
Solid wood floors are made from a single piece of wood and are the most traditional type of hardwood flooring. They come in various widths, lengths, and thicknesses, making it easy to find one that fits your home’s decor. Solid wood floors are durable and can last for decades with proper care.
Engineered Wood Floors
Engineered wood floors are made from several layers of wood and are designed to be more durable and resistant to moisture. They are made by gluing several layers of wood together, with the top layer being the hardwood veneer. Engineered wood floors come in various thicknesses, making it easy to find one that fits your home’s needs.
Differences Between Solid Hardwood And Engineered Hardwood
While both types of hardwood flooring have their benefits, there are some differences to consider:
1. Cost
Solid hardwood floors are generally more expensive than engineered hardwood floors. However, the cost can vary depending on the type of wood and the thickness of the planks.
2. Installation
Solid hardwood floors require nailing or stapling to the subfloor, which can be time-consuming and expensive. Engineered hardwood floors, on the other hand, can be installed using a floating floor method, which is quicker and less expensive.
3. Moisture Resistance
Solid hardwood floors are prone to moisture damage and are not suitable for use in areas with high humidity or moisture, such as bathrooms or basements. Engineered hardwood floors are more resistant to moisture and can be used in these areas.
Different Types Of Engineered Wood Flooring
There are several types of engineered wood flooring, including:
1. Three-Ply Engineered Wood Flooring
Three-ply engineered wood flooring is made from three layers of wood, with the top layer being the hardwood veneer. It is the most common type of engineered wood flooring and is known for its durability and stability.
2. Five-Ply Engineered Wood Flooring
Five-ply engineered wood flooring is made from five layers of wood, with the top layer being the hardwood veneer. It is more stable than three-ply engineered wood flooring and is suitable for use in areas with high humidity or moisture.
3. Seven-Ply Engineered Wood Flooring
Seven-ply engineered wood flooring is made from seven layers of wood, with the top layer being the hardwood veneer. It is the most stable type of engineered wood flooring and is suitable for use in areas with high humidity or moisture.