If you’re looking at hardwood flooring options for your home, you have a major choice ahead of you: engineered or solid. There are many benefits to both, but in the end, there are several reasons to choose engineered over solid hardwood flooring. From a wider variety of style options to easier installation and lasting peace of mind, here are a few reasons why you should choose engineered hardwood to complete your home.
Cost and Sustainability
Engineered hardwood consists of a layer of hardwood on top of high-quality plywood, so it usually doesn’t cost as much as solid hardwood flooring. This also means engineered hardwood takes less solid timber to make, helping to conserve natural resources. Engineered hardwood is a more sustainable option—both for your home and the environment around it.
Easier Installation
The installation process is one of the most obvious reasons to choose engineered over solid hardwood flooring. Engineered hardwood comes with an easier and more flexible installation process. While you must staple or nail solid hardwood to install it, you can staple, nail, float, or glue engineered hardwood. Engineered hardwood can also work in a wider variety of rooms. Because it can warp easily, you shouldn’t install solid hardwood in kitchens, bathrooms, basements, or other rooms that might have moisture issues. On the other hand, engineered hardwood can work in these rooms without an issue.
Increased Moisture Resistance
Solid hardwood is more likely to warp due to water damage or excessive moisture. This is another area where engineered hardwood excels, as its plywood base is more stable. Engineered hardwood doesn’t flex or warp as easily, meaning this type of flooring will hold its shape better in the case of flooding or other water damage.
All the Benefits of Hardwood
On top of all its unique perks, modern engineered wood flooring also has many of the same benefits of traditional solid hardwood. As an authentic wood product, it boasts a gorgeous, natural appearance and is available in many different wood types, grades, and finishes. Engineered hardwood is sturdy and durable, allowing it to last in your home for years to come. Due to its beauty, durability, and real wood composition, engineered hardwood helps increase the value of your house—both now and down the road.