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April 14, 2023

Prefinished Engineered Hardwood vs. Solid Hardwood: Which is Right for You?

When choosing a hardwood floor for your home, you have two main options: Prefinished Engineered Hardwood or Solid Hardwood. Both types of flooring have their own advantages and disadvantages, so it’s important to know the differences between them before making a decision. It’s crucial to understand that, despite the names, both solid and engineered are hardwood.

When choosing a hardwood floor for your home, you have two main options: Prefinished Engineered Hardwood or Solid Hardwood. Both types of flooring have their own advantages and disadvantages, so it’s important to know the differences between them before making a decision. It’s crucial to understand that, despite the names, both solid and engineered are hardwood.

Prefinished Engineered Hardwood

Two of our Prefinished Engineered Hardwoods in stock, the Pecan Flaxen flooring from Anderson Tuftex’s Imperial Pecan collection and the Amber Betula flooring from Shaw Flooring’s Celestial collection.

Anderson Tuftex Imperial Pecan Pecan Flaxen 7-1/2" AA828-12014Anderson Tuftex Imperial Pecan Pecan Flaxen 7-1/2" AA828-12014

 

 

 

 

 

 

Anderson Tuftex Imperial Pecan Pecan Flaxen 7-1/2″ AA828-12014

Shaw Hardwood Flooring |in Celestial Amber BetulaHardwood Planks by Shaw Flooring in Celestial Amber Betula

Prefinished Engineered Hardwood is made from a thin layer of hardwood veneer that is bonded to a core of plywood or particleboard. The veneer is then finished at the factory, which means you don’t have to worry about sanding and finishing the floor yourself. This can save you time and money, and it also means that you can get your new floor installed sooner.

Prefinished Engineered Hardwood is also more stable than Solid Hardwood. This is because the plywood (or particle board) core helps to prevent the wood from expanding and contracting with changes in humidity. This makes Prefinished Engineered Hardwood a great choice for homes in humid or dry climates.

Prefinished hardwood can be constructed in wider planks because it can be put on a more stable core, with some up to 11” wide . However, a wider plank sometimes means higher installation costs due to gluing the tongue and groove or even paying for the full spread of glue – but it’s necessary and best practice to make sure the floor is stable and doesn’t squeak as much (or at all).

Solid Hardwood

Solid Hardwood is made from a single piece of wood and can typically be sanded down and re-stained over the course of the floor’s life. Prefinished Engineered Hardwood cannot typically be refinished because there is not as thick of a layer of sandable wood. If a solid wood floor becomes scratched over time, it can be refinished. Replacing the boards or the entire floor would be necessary with a prefinished floor. Solid Hardwood is also a good choice for homes with pets or children, as it is more resistant to scratches and dents.

Natural Hardwood FloorsBruce Timberland Strip Oak 2- 1/4"-Gunstock

Two of our Solid Hardwoods in Natural and Gunstock Strip Oak from the Timberland collection by Bruce Hardwood Floors

However, Solid Hardwood is more expensive than Prefinished Engineered Hardwood. It is also more difficult to install, as it requires a more precise subfloor. Additionally, Solid Hardwood is more susceptible to changes in humidity, so it is not a good choice for homes in humid climates.

Which Type of Hardwood Flooring is Right for You?

The best type of hardwood flooring for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences. Prefinished engineered hardwood is a good choice for a durable, maintenance floor. If you prefer a more natural look or have budget constraints, solid hardwood may be a better option. 

Here are some factors to consider when making your decision:

  • Durability: If you have young children or pets, or if you live in an area with high foot traffic, you will want to choose a durable floor. Although Prefinished Engineered Hardwood is more durable, you can increast the lifespan of Solid Hardwood by sanding and refinishing it multiple times.
  • Cost: Prefinished Engineered Hardwood is typically less expensive than Solid Hardwood. However, the cost of installation can vary depending on the type of floor you choose.
  • Style: Prefinished Engineered Hardwood is available in a variety of styles, including traditional, contemporary, and rustic. Solid Hardwood also comes in a variety of styles, but it’s natural grain gives your home a unique touch.
  • Climate: If you live in a humid climate, you will want to choose a floor that is resistant to moisture. Choose Prefinished Engineered Hardwood for humid climates because its stable core makes it an excellent option. Solid Hardwood is not as resistant to moisture, so it is not a good choice for humid climates.

Ultimately, the best way to choose hardwood flooring is consult a professional. They can help you assess your needs and preferences and recommend the best type of flooring for your home.

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