The difference between solid and engineered hardwood flooring

Are you thinking about redoing your floors but not sure what material to choose? Are you confused about the difference between engineered and solid hardwood flooring? Let us go over the various distinctive properties of each option so that you can make the best choice for your upcoming renovation.

Solid versus engineered

Although these two surfacing materials are indeed uniquely different nonetheless, they are both excellent flooring alternatives. As the name indicates, solid wood flooring is created from one entire section of wood. As such, you will have a robust and continuous grain pattern with a dense, tight natural design; on the other hand, Engineered floors are comprised of multiple layers of wood, which create a resilient, sleek appearance. With the ability to make layers, manufacturers can achieve a wide range of desired wear and thickness levels.

Floor thickness

While solid floors come in various thicknesses, the most common ones are 1/2 inch, 5/8 inch, and 3/4 inch. If you're stumped as to which thickness would best suit your home, don't worry too much about it – our floor specialists at LeBlanc Floors & Interiors will talk you through the selection process. Similarly, engineered slats also come in several thickness levels. However, with this particular installation, the thickness also considers its "backing" and "wear layer."

Wear layer

The wear layer of planks, which is everything above the "tongue and groove," specifically refers to its superficial surface area. Regardless of what kind of installation you are thinking of getting, typically, the thicker the wear layer then, the longer your floors will last. Thicker top layers offer more re-sanding opportunities, depending on the type of installation and various other factors. Of course, a longer lifespan for your planks is always a good thing!

Call your local hardwood flooring company today

Are you searching for affordable, stunning wood flooring? Call us today at LeBlanc Floors & Interiors for an impressive array of quality materials and exceptional customer care. Our Seattle, WA showroom services the Lynnwood, Shoreline, Lake City, Mountlake Terrace, Northgate, Bothell, Bellevue, Redmond, and Mill Creek regions. Please get the professional help you need from our knowledgeable, friendly experts today.