Engineered hardwood vs. solid hardwood

Engineered hardwood is a type of flooring that is made up of multiple layers of wood. The top layer, also known as the wear layer, is made of real wood and is typically 1/16 to 1/8 inch thick. The bottom layers are made of high-quality plywood or fiberboard, which provide stability and strength to the flooring. These layers are bonded together using heat and pressure, creating a strong and durable flooring option.

Pros of Engineered Hardwood

• More resistant to moisture: The layers of plywood or fiberboard in engineered hardwood make it more resistant to moisture than solid hardwood. This makes it a great option for high humidity areas, such as basements or bathrooms.
• Can be installed in high traffic areas: The stability of engineered hardwood makes it a great option for high traffic areas, as it is less likely to warp or dent compared to solid hardwood.
• Can be installed over concrete: Unlike solid hardwood, engineered hardwood can be installed over concrete, making it a great option for basements or other areas with concrete subfloors.
• Easy to maintain: Engineered hardwood is easy to clean and maintain, as it can be swept, vacuumed, or mopped like any other type of hardwood flooring.

Cons of Engineered Hardwood

• Cannot be sanded and refinished as many times: The top layer of engineered hardwood is thinner than solid hardwood, which means it can only be sanded and refinished a limited number of times. This means it may not last as long as solid hardwood in high traffic areas.
• Limited types of wood: Engineered hardwood is typically available in a limited number of wood species, compared to solid hardwood which can be made from a variety of woods.