When it comes to adding timeless elegance and durability to your home, hardwood flooring is a top choice for many homeowners. At Eastside Carpets & Floors, we offer a variety of options for hardwood flooring in Redmond, WA, including both solid and engineered hardwood. While both options bring natural beauty and warmth to your space, they have distinct differences that can influence your decision depending on your needs and lifestyle. In this blog, we’ll explore the key differences between solid and engineered hardwood flooring to help you make the right choice for your home.
What is solid hardwood flooring?
Solid hardwood flooring is exactly what it sounds like—a solid piece of wood from top to bottom. Each plank is typically milled from a single piece of wood, which can be sanded and refinished multiple times over the course of its lifespan. Solid hardwood comes in a variety of wood species, including oak, maple, cherry, and more, allowing you to customize the look of your home to match your personal style.
One of the main advantages of solid hardwood is its durability. With proper care, solid hardwood floors can last for decades and often add significant value to a home. However, because solid hardwood is susceptible to moisture and temperature changes, it’s best installed in areas of the home that are not prone to humidity or drastic temperature fluctuations. Basements, bathrooms, and other moisture-prone areas are typically not suitable for solid hardwood.
What is engineered hardwood flooring?
Engineered hardwood flooring is constructed differently from solid hardwood. It consists of multiple layers of wood, with a top layer of real hardwood and several layers of plywood or high-density fiberboard underneath. These layers are designed to provide additional stability and resistance to moisture, making engineered hardwood more versatile than solid hardwood.
One of the biggest benefits of engineered hardwood is that it can be installed in areas where solid hardwood may not be suitable, such as basements or over radiant heating systems. The multi-layer construction makes it less prone to warping and expansion due to changes in humidity. While it can also be sanded and refinished, the number of times you can do so is limited due to the thinner top layer compared to solid hardwood.
Installation and cost considerations
Both solid and engineered hardwood offer distinct advantages when it comes to installation. Solid hardwood is typically nailed or stapled to a subfloor, making it more labor-intensive and time-consuming to install. Engineered hardwood, on the other hand, can be installed in a variety of ways, including as a floating floor, which is faster and easier to install.
In terms of cost, solid hardwood tends to be more expensive upfront, but it offers long-term value due to its longevity and ability to be refinished multiple times. Engineered hardwood is often more affordable and provides greater flexibility in terms of installation, making it a great choice for budget-conscious homeowners who still want the beauty of real wood.
Conclusion: Find your perfect hardwood flooring at eastside carpets & floors
Whether you prefer the traditional beauty of solid hardwood or the versatility of engineered hardwood, Eastside Carpets & Floors is your go-to destination for hardwood flooring in Redmond, WA. Visit our showroom in Redmond to explore our extensive collection of hardwood flooring, along with carpet, waterproof flooring (WPC), luxury vinyl, and tile flooring. We offer both residential and commercial installation services, proudly serving Bellevue, Kirkland, Bothell, Woodinville, Issaquah, and surrounding areas. Contact us today or stop by to speak with one of our flooring experts and find the perfect hardwood for your home!
