The Ideal Floor: Engineered Floorings or Solid Hardwood Flooring

With natural wood flooring, there are two main choices: engineered and solid hardwood. Knowing the difference will help you make an educated choice.

These two types of floor are the premium choices and are the most desired by homeowners. They have a comparable material cost and price to install.

- Solid Hardwood can be refinished many times.

- Considered the classic choice, associated with quality and durability.

Solid wood is processed using solid lumber and is striking in almost every room. This type of floor's gorgeous natural beauty shines when refinished. Solid wood flooring is not ideal for places like bathrooms, kitchens, or entry hallways due to possible water damage. It's not recommended to install below grade because of the damage from high humidity environments.

- Engineered Wood is resistant to moisture and structurally stable.

- Perfect for every floor, including basements and condos with cement floors.

Comparing Solid and Engineered Hardwood:

The choice between solid hardwood flooring and engineered hardwood flooring depends on various factors, and neither option is universally better than the other. Consider the following factors to determine which option suits your needs:

Solid Hardwood Flooring:

Authenticity:
If you prioritize the authentic look and feel of natural wood, solid hardwood is a great choice.

Longevity:
Solid hardwood, when properly maintained, can last for generations due to its ability to be sanded and refinished multiple times.

Home Value:
It often adds more value to a home, which can be an important consideration for resale.

Engineered Hardwood Flooring:

Moisture Resistance:
Engineered hardwood is more resistant to moisture and temperature fluctuations, making it suitable for areas where solid hardwood might not be ideal.

Versatility:
It can be installed on various surfaces, including concrete, and is compatible with radiant heating systems.

Cost-Effectiveness:
Generally, engineered hardwood is more cost-effective, making it a good option for those on a budget.



Ultimately, the best choice depends on your specific requirements, budget, and preferences. If authenticity and the ability to refinish multiple times are crucial, solid hardwood may be the preferred option.

However, if you're looking for a more versatile and cost-effective solution with better resistance to moisture, engineered hardwood might be the better fit. It's recommended to consult with flooring professionals and consider your specific circumstances before making a decision.

Board Width

Generally speaking, standard solid hardwood flooring is 3 1⁄4" Wide by 3⁄4" Tall. The average width of engineered flooring starts at 5". If you're seeking wide boards for a specifc project, we recommend using engineered wood to avoid plank twisting and going over budget.

Your choice of wood is influenced by the location of your room and your preference. Maple, oak, and birch are popular, but most wood is suitable for everyday life. Ultimately, you should choose your wood flooring based on its versatility, appearance, and quality. There are many textures and finishes available to give your room a unique look.

There are also options to have less knots, more streaking, colour variation, and more pronounced grain patterns.

Another factor is gloss level. matte (15%), satin (20%-35%) gloss (35%-50%). The gloss you select will impact the look and feel of your space.