Wood is a popular material for flooring. Not only is it durable, but it can also be aesthetically pleasing. It comes in a variety of different colors, styles, and cuts. Depending on the homeowner's preference, the material can be structural, aesthetic, or both.
There are many factors to consider when deciding whether to install solid or engineered hardwood flooring. This decision is very important, as floors can increase the value of your home.
In most cases, the cost of engineered hardwood is lower than that of solid wood. This is due to the fact that engineered products are often thinner and less expensive than solid ones. You may also find that the finished product is more durable than a similar solid hardwood floor. This is because engineered hardwood is made from real materials.
While there are advantages to each type of flooring, it is hard to determine which is better. Both offer great value and durability, but they are different.
Solid hardwood is usually a better choice for homes in the Northeast, Mid-Atlantic, and East Coast regions. While they can be painted or stained, they are not recommended for bathrooms or laundry rooms. This is because they can expand during warm humid summers and contract during cold dry winters.
When it comes to engineered flooring, durability is an important consideration. You want a product that can withstand scratches, wear and tear, and high humidity. If you choose a quality product, it can last for decades.
One of the key factors to durability is the quality of the plywood core board. The core of your engineered floor is made up of several plies of plywood, each glued together in a crisscross pattern. The more plies in the core, the stronger the floor.
Another factor to consider is the thickness of the veneer. Higher grade engineered wood flooring will typically have three or more layers. The top veneer will typically be at least two millimeters thick, and can range from 0.5 to 6 millimeters. However, if you are not planning on refinishing your floor, you don't need to worry about the thickness.
Another way to measure the durability of a flooring product is to look at the Janka Hardness Scale. The scale was developed by Gabriel Janka, an Austrian wood researcher, and was standardized by the American Society of Testing and Materials in 1927. A higher Janka rating means harder and more scratch resistant wood.
Engineered hardwood flooring is made of several layers of wood. The base layer is typically a plywood-core substrate. The top layer is usually a real hardwood veneer. The planks are glued together or fastened to a subfloor. The flooring is designed to withstand high humidity and moisture.
One disadvantage of engineered wood is that it can't be refinished as often as solid hardwood. However, it is also less expensive. With proper care and maintenance, it can last up to 30 years.
Most of the time, engineered flooring is installed using a click-and-lock system. This method uses tongue-and-groove boards that lock together like Legos. It is also compatible with any subfloor. If your subfloor is not hardwood, you may need to install a moisture barrier under the floor.
You can choose from a variety of species. Some of the more popular options are red oak, hickory, and walnut. You can get these in a variety of colors as well. Some types of engineered floors even come prefinished, saving you the hassle of finishing your floor after installation.
Engineered flooring has many advantages over traditional hardwood floors. One of the biggest benefits is that engineered wood flooring is much more resistant to moisture problems than hardwood. It is also less likely to warp.
The cost of engineered flooring can vary depending on the type of wood you choose. A basic engineered wood floor has three core layers, with a veneer of around 1/12 of an inch thick. It typically costs $6 to $8 per square foot. Higher grade engineered floors have seven to nine core layers and a 7mm-plus top layer.
If you are looking for a hardwood floor that is easy to install, consider an engineered wood floor. These floors are easier to clean and have a greater lifespan. They can be installed on ceilings, walls, and elevators. You can also install them over concrete. You can even use an underfloor heating system with these types of floors.
In addition to the cost of the flooring, you may have to pay for installation. For simple installations, it can be as low as $2 to $4 per square foot. For more complicated projects, the price can range from $3300 to $5,500.