The enduring beauty of hardwood flooring

There are two main types of hardwood flooring: solid wood and engineered wood. Each type offers unique benefits and considerations.

1. Solid wood flooring: Solid hardwood flooring is what its name suggests – planks of solid wood through and through. It's traditionally been the go-to choice for hardwood flooring due to its longevity and the ability to sand and refinish it multiple times. Solid wood floors are available in various wood species, from classic oaks to exotic hardwoods, each offering different looks and durability levels. However, solid wood flooring can be more susceptible to changes in humidity and temperature, leading to potential warping or splitting. Installation typically requires nailing the planks to a wooden subfloor, and this type of flooring is generally not recommended for basements or other moisture-prone areas.
2. Engineered wood flooring: Engineered hardwood flooring is a modern alternative to solid wood. This product has a thin layer of hardwood bonded over a high-quality plywood substrate. This construction provides enhanced stability, reducing the risk of warping or splitting in humid or fluctuating temperatures. Engineered wood floors can often be installed over various subfloors, including concrete, making them a versatile choice for many homes. They can also be installed via floating (without nails or glue), nailed, or glued down, offering flexibility in installation methods. While engineered wood flooring can be sanded and refinished, the number of times this can be done depends on the thickness of the top wood layer.