There’s nothing like hardwood to add a touch of warmth, class and genuine beauty to a home. A beautiful interior design calls for it!

So, what is the difference between solid hardwood and engineered floors?

It’s all in the layers, or for solid hardwood, the lack of. Solid hardwood is just that, solid wood. Unlike solid hardwood, engineered floors are engineered (or manufactured) using three or more layers of high-density or medium-density fiberboard, with a real layer of wood veneer as a top layer. Both are beautiful options and have their own unique advantages. Let’s review!

Solid hardwood floors in a custom design!​

​Solid hardwood floors are milled from a single piece of lumber and the thickness ranges from 3/4” to 7/16”.  Every plank is visually and characteristically unique. This adds variation and a natural element to an interior. There’s no mistaking the beauty of solid hardwood floors – it’s a classic look.

See the variation in the wood? Each plank has its own unique touches and color.
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Hardwood floors are living, breathing and always shaping with the environment. When installing solid hardwood, it’s important to keep in mind that it will expand and contract in reaction to changes in moisture and temperature of its environment.  Because of the sensitivity to moisture, solid hardwood is not recommended for basements, bathrooms and washrooms.

Kid and pet friendly! FallDesign original shades via our Warm Colors of Africa Collection. ​

​A major positive for going with the option of solid hardwood is the versatility, durability and investment. A solid hardwood floor will withstand the wear and tear of pets and kids. These floors are meant to be lived on! The best part? If you want to makeover your interior later, solid hardwood can be sanded and refinished throughout the years to meet your changing lifestyle (or those of a potential buyer). These floors will improve the overall value of your home!

Engineered​

​Now that we’ve covered solid hardwood, it’s time for engineered floors. As we reviewed, engineered floors are still wood and a beautiful option, but instead of a solid piece of wood, a layer of hardwood is applied to the top layer, while the fiberboard creates a strong core. Engineered floors can be a more budget-friendly option for those looking to add the elegance of hardwood floors, without the price tag.

Unlike solid hardwood, engineered floors are not at the mercy of the elements. They are much less likely to react to changes in humidity and temperature. This means you can install in basements, bathrooms and laundry rooms without the fear of having to replace.

​Engineered flooring provides a more uniform look, and as long as you buy a brand with a thick enough top layer, you still have the option of sanding or refinishing in the future. With great care, these floors can last a long time!
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You may still be wondering which choice is best for you. The answer is in your design aesthetic, budget, and lifestyle. Go through the above points to figure out which are most important to your family!

Need help deciding? Contact us today!