Both solid and engineered hardwood flooring are fantastic choices for homeowners, each with specific advantages and disadvantages.
Compared to solid hardwoods, engineered wood uses less of the tree per plank. And the exterior of engineered wood flooring resembles hardwood almost exactly.
What is Engineered Hardwood Flooring?
Engineered hardwood flooring is a plywood or composite board topped with a real hardwood veneer. It can appear so similar to solid hardwood flooring thanks to the veneer. (Read More: How to Repair Hardwood Flooring with Simple Steps)
Pros
- Costs less than solid hardwood flooring;
- Easier to install for DIYers;
- Available in a variety of widths and finishes;
- Can be glued down to concrete or floated;
- More resistant to warping and water damage.
Cons
- Cannot be refinished as many times as solid hardwood;
- Deep scratches or gauges can be difficult to repair;
- Cannot be stained on-site.
What is Solid Hardwood Flooring?
Hardwood that is solidly constructed makes for sturdy flooring. It can be sanded and refinished many times over its lifespan.
Pros
- Can be refinished many times;
- Can be stained and finished on-site;
- Available unfinished or stained;
- Long lifespan;
- Installation is comparatively easy.
Cons
- Must be installed by a professional or an experienced DIY-er;
- Expensive.
Solid Hardwood Vs. Engineered Wood Flooring
Costs
Engineered hardwood flooring is typically less expensive than solid hardwood flooring. We’re talking the planks themselves and the installation, which requires a pro.
Noting that solid hardwood has a much longer lifespan than engineered wood, the initial cost of solid hardwood floors may become less of a concern in the long run.
Installation
Homeowners are able to install engineered hardwood flooring. Many use a “click-lock” design that easily connects the boards together.
Solid hardwood flooring uses a more complicated tongue and groove joint that takes more finesse to ensure a tight fit. It also must be nailed down to a subfloor, unlike engineered hardwood that can be simply glued down or “floated” above your existing floor with no adhesive at all. Keep in mind that floating floors cannot be refinished.
Cleaning
Both engineered and solid hardwood flooring require regular cleaning to look their best and remove dirt and debris that can scratch their surface. Given its tighter fit, solid hardwood may be easier to keep clean. Solid hardwood stain will fill in any cracks and holes to produce a smoother finish that is simpler to wipe down.
Lifespan
While both engineered and solid hardwood floors can withstand normal wear and tear, engineered planks will last much less time than solid wood. Solid hardwood can last up to 100 years because it can be sanded and refinished numerous times.
It can only be refinished once or twice, so the engineered hardwood’s thin veneer will last for 20 to 40 years. Depending on your household, the type of foot traffic, and how often it occurs, your floor’s lifespan will change.
Width
Compared to solid hardwood, which is typically six inches wide, It is reported that engineered wood is typically more readily available in wider widths, up to seven inches. Engineered wood might be the best option if you’re set on extra-wide boards.
Engineered Vs. Solid: Which is Better?
While both are fine options, the best choice for your home will ultimately depend on your budget, installation limitations and design preferences.
If you want a traditional hardwood look but don’t have the money for solid options and would rather install it yourself, engineered hardwood is the better option. If you want a floor that will last a lifetime and are willing to pay for professional installation, solid hardwood is the better option.
FAQs
Is Engineered Hardwood as Good as Hardwood?
Engineered wood flooring is a better option for basements, bathrooms, and other high-moisture areas than solid hardwood. However, both flooring options provide a wide range of style options for installations throughout the entire house.
Which is Better Engineered Wood Or Solid Wood?
For homeowners, solid wood is by far the better option. It might be more expensive than furniture made of engineered wood, but because it will last so much longer, it offers much better value.
Is Engineered Hardwood Low Quality?
And when it comes to wood flooring, the choices are probably solid or engineered. The idea that engineered hardwood flooring is of lower quality is a widespread one. Actually, while offering increased versatility and durability, this option still has the elegant appearance and feel of solid wood.
Can I Mop Engineered Hardwood Floors?
Engineered wood flooring stands up better to moisture than standard hardwood floors, but it’s not waterproof. Use a mop that is damp but not drenched. Make sure no areas get wet.
Check the following mop reviews before buying!
The Mr. Clean Spin Mop heads work best for dust mopping and absorb too much water for wet mopping. But wringing out the mop is extremely difficult.
When it comes to surface exposure, the Libman Tornado Twist Mop is a far better option than sponge mops. Even with vigorous scrubbing, you can clean with it effectively.
Mighty Thirsty Mop is a quick-absorbing mop made of polymer. Its thin mop head can fit underneath furniture and into other small spaces around the house.
If you have the Floor Police Motorized mop, you can quickly and easily spin away that dirt! The spin mop that does all the work for you is a cordless, lightweight product.
The cleaning efficacy and usability of the Bona Spray Mop are its greatest benefits. Use it to maintain the floors in between more thorough moppings.
With the Bissell PowerFresh steam mop, you can mop more effectively while saving money and combining convenience and power.
O Cedar Mop is incredibly shaky and spills way too easily. If you have to pick up the clean water tank, it will stop spinning and be inoperable.
The H20 X5 Mop won our comparison as the most adaptable mop. This mop effectively removed stains from the floor that had been there for several hours.
The Norwex Mop is available in two sizes (large and small) and three different mop pads. The system is easy to use if you follow the directions.
The Shark Steam Mop is a cheap steam mop that does a good job of sweeping and disinfecting floors. This Shark steam mop is a lightweight, simple-to-use steam cleaner.
