What’s the difference between solid and engineered wood flooring?

There are two types of hardwood floors, solid and engineered. They look identical in appearance, but their construction is very different. They perform differently in humid areas. Because customers want practicality and beauty, engineered hardwood flooring is making gains on solid hardwood flooring. We specialize in wood flooring.

Differences

Solid hardwood flooring is simple, with the same thickness of wood through the whole plank. Engineered is different, with a layered construction. The desired plank of wood is the top of the engineered floor, be it cherry, hickory, or maple. However, it still has its undertones, granularity, knots, and swirls of any plank of solid hardwood. The engineered planks are a little shorter and wider, but the manufacturer can make the planks match various sizes.

Crosswise structure

Underneath the veneer piece of wood are three layers, or more, of plywood that are held together by resin. They are in a crosswise position. This gives the floor more stability. It is also able to handle moisture better as well. Engineered hardwood can go in above-normal moisture places where it isn’t advisable for solid hardwood. It doesn’t need to acclimate to the weather like solid hardwood. So it won’t shrink or contract on you. Just like solid hardwood flooring, engineered hardwood floors add to the value of your property, and they can be refinished.

Installation

The solid hardwood plank has a tongue-in-groove system for installation. Engineered hardwood is different and offers a floating floor. A floating floor is a fast and uncomplicated type of installation. The engineered pieces click together and hold without any nails or glue down.

Good’s Floor Store is here for you. We know wood flooring because we are a hardwood flooring company that can give you the best in hardwood floors. Our showroom is in Central Illinois. We serve Decatur, Springfield, Bloomington, Champaign, Forsyth, Clinton, Maroa, and Monticello. Visit our showroom and speak to our staff about your hardwood flooring project. We would be happy to talk to you and help you get the best hardwood floors for your home.