Engineered Hardwood Vs Natural Hardwood
Choosing between engineered hardwood vs natural hardwood can be tough for homeowners. One fact to know is that solid hardwood flooring comes from a single piece of wood. This article will guide you through the differences, installation, and costs involved with both options.
Keep reading to discover more!
Key Takeaways
- Engineered hardwood is made of layers with a real wood top, while natural hardwood is solid wood. This makes engineered floors stable and good for places with moisture.
- Natural hardwood can last more than 100 years and can be refinished many times. Engineered hardwood lasts 20-30 years but can't be sanded as much because of its thin top layer.
- Installing engineered hardwood often costs less than natural hardwood. Prices range from $3 to $14 per square foot for engineered and $5 to $20 for natural wood.
- Both types need regular cleaning and care, like sweeping and using mats at doors. Avoid water on the floors to keep them in good shape.
- Engineered hardwood works well over concrete or with heating systems under the floor because it handles changes in moisture better than natural wood does.
Key Differences Between Engineered and Natural Hardwood
Engineered hardwood and natural hardwood differ in construction and appearance options. While engineered hardwood is composed of layers, natural hardwood comes as a single solid piece.
Understanding these differences can help homeowners make informed decisions about their flooring choices.
Construction and Composition
Engineered hardwood flooring and solid hardwood floors are built differently. Solid wood flooring is made from a single piece of hardwood, like oak or maple. This makes them strong but also sensitive to changes in humidity.
On the other hand, engineered wood flooring uses multiple layers. The top layer is real hardwood veneer, and below it are layers of plywood or high density fiberboard. These layers make engineered wood floors stable and less likely to warp with changes in moisture.
The look of both types of flooring can be very similar because the top layer of engineered wood is real wood. But, how they react to their environment sets them apart. Engineered floors work well over concrete floors or radiant heating systems thanks to their layered construction.
Appearance and Style Options
Moving from the construction and composition, appearance and style options for both hardwood types are vast. Engineered hardwood floors offer premium collections with extra wide planks that can make rooms look bigger.
They come in various finishes, fitting modern homes to classic ones. Solid wood planks, on the other hand, have a timeless appeal. Their natural beauty shines through in traditional settings.
Both types allow homeowners to choose from a wide range of wood species, adding unique character to any space.
The top veneer layer of engineered wood planks can mimic original hardwood floors closely. This thin layer is available in different patterns and shades, matching adjoining floor areas seamlessly.
Solid hardwoods gain a rich patina over time, enhancing their aesthetic value. Whether choosing solid or engineered flooring, there are enough choices to complement every interior design style.
Installation Considerations
Installation Considerations: When deciding between engineered and natural hardwood, it’s important to consider suitable locations for installation and various installation methods.
Living rooms and dining rooms are ideal areas for hardwood flooring, while the click-and-lock system or traditional installation method can be used based on your preference.
Suitable Locations
Engineered hardwood is a good choice for parts of the home with moisture, like kitchens and bathrooms. Its plywood core resists warping from water better than solid hardwood does. You can also put it in living rooms and dining rooms where you want a wood look that lasts long.
Solid hardwood works best in living areas away from water, such as bedrooms and hallways. It needs a stable climate to maintain its shape and looks. Because solid wood can be refinished multiple times, high-traffic places are ideal to show off its beauty for years.
Installation Methods
Here are the installation methods for both types of hardwood flooring:
Engineered Hardwood:
- Click and Lock System: This method involves interlocking the engineered hardwood planks to create a floating floor without the need for adhesives.
- Glue-Down Method: The engineered hardwood planks are attached directly to the subfloor using appropriate adhesive, resulting in a solid and durable installation.
Natural Hardwood:
Nail-Down Method: This traditional approach involves securing natural hardwood planks to the subfloor using nails or staples, ensuring stability and longevity.
Each method offers its unique benefits in terms of ease of installation, durability, and suitability for different subfloor types.
These distinct methods cater to various homeowner preferences and specific requirements for installing hardwood flooring in their homes.
Durability and Maintenance
Durability and maintenance vary between engineered and natural hardwood. While natural hardwood tend to be more durable, requiring less maintenance, engineered hardwood can also offer good durability with proper care.
The specific needs for each type of flooring should be considered in order to ensure long-term satisfaction.
Lifespan and Resistance to Wear
Engineered hardwood can last 20-30 years, depending on the quality of the veneer. The surface layer contributes to resistance against wear and tear. Natural hardwood has a longer lifespan, often lasting more than 100 years with proper care.
Its solid construction adds to its durability. Both types can be refinished, but engineered hardwood has limitation due to its thinner veneer.
Durability varies based on factors like foot traffic and maintenance. Engineered hardwood is less prone to warping and suitable for areas with higher moisture levels, while natural hardwood may not withstand these conditions well unless it’s specifically treated.
Regular damp mopping is advisable for both, yet excessive water should be avoided.
Maintenance differs; engineered planks have a protective finish that’s easier to maintain than unfinished natural wood counterparts which will need regular polishing or resealing over time.
Care Requirements
To maintain your hardwood flooring, follow these care requirements:
Regular Cleaning:
- Sweep or vacuum frequently to remove dirt and debris.
- Use a damp cloth for spills and spots to prevent stains.
Avoid Moisture:
- Wipe up any liquid spills immediately to prevent moisture damage.
- Use mats at entryways to trap moisture and dirt from shoes.
Protective Measures:
- Place felt pads under furniture legs to prevent scratches.
- Trim pets’ nails regularly to minimize scratches on the floor.
Refinishing:
- Consider refinishing the floor every 3-5 years depending on wear and tear.
- Use recommended wood floor cleaners and avoid harsh chemicals.
Environmental Controls:
- Maintain consistent humidity levels to prevent warping and shrinking of the wood.
- Protect floors from direct sunlight with curtains or blinds to avoid discoloration.
Professional Maintenance:
- Schedule professional cleaning and maintenance as per manufacturer’s recommendations.
- Seek expert advice for any specialized care needs based on your specific hardwood type.
Cost Comparison
Initial Costs
When comparing initial expenses, engineered hardwood generally comes at a lower cost than natural hardwood. Engineered hardwood can range from $3 to $14 per square foot, while solid hardwood usually falls within the $5 to $20 per square foot range.
The variation in price often depends on the quality of materials and finishes used in the flooring options, with natural hardwood being generally more costly due to its solid wood composition and installation complexity.
Homeowners should consider their budget and the desired aesthetic when assessing initial expenses.
Long-Term Value
When contemplating long-term value, engineered hardwood presents a lasting investment. Its high-quality plywood construction offers dimensional stability and resistance to warping, ensuring its structural integrity over time.
Engineered hardwood’s highly stable core allows for installation in areas where natural hardwood may not be suitable due to moisture or temperature fluctuations. Moreover, the surface veneer of engineered hardwood can be sanded and refinished multiple times, extending its lifespan and maintaining its appeal.
Moreover, the water-resistant properties of engineered hardwood make it a durable choice for homeowners seeking longevity and minimal maintenance. Ultimately, the long-term value proposition of engineered hardwood lies in its ability to withstand wear and tear while offering the timeless beauty of traditional hardwood floors.
Leading Manufacturers of Hardwood Flooring
- Mohawk Industries: A leader in flooring solutions, Mohawk offers a wide range of engineered and natural hardwood options.
- Shaw Floors: Known for their innovative designs, Shaw provides durable hardwood products with a focus on sustainability and style.
- Kahrs: This Swedish manufacturer specializes in engineered hardwood floors, known for their unique designs and eco-friendly production methods.
- Tarkett: Tarkett offers an array of flooring solutions, including hardwood, known for their commitment to performance and design.
- Authenteak: This brand focuses on high-quality natural hardwoods, ideal for both indoor and outdoor applications.
FAQs
Experience You Can Trust
Our team has been providing exceptional hardwood flooring services for years, ensuring professional craftsmanship and outstanding results. Partnering with the best not only saves you money in the long run but also guarantees quality.
If you live in Georgia and you’re ready to tackle your hardwood floor installation project with our industry experts, contact us at (770) 833-1362 so we can get started.