Industry Moving Toward Engineered Hardwoods

There are pros and cons with both but in our opinion, but more pros than cons with engineered.  Most people still ask for solid hardwood because it’s what they know, but the industry is producing more and more engineered for many reasons; the five main reasons are listed below.

• Wider planks. These days people like the wider boards 5” and up. Solids have issues if they go too wide.
• Engineered is less prone to cupping.
• Engineered is less prone to gapping.
• Engineered is less affected by humidity and moisture.
• Engineered is structurally more stable.

What Is Engineered Hardwood?

Engineered hardwood is made of layers of wood which are bonded together with adhesives under intense heat and pressure. This process means the floors are not affected by humidity as much as hardwood.  It won’t shrink or expand as much which in turn makes it more resistant warping and cupping. Hardwood is still very beautiful and popular, but once installed you do need to monitor carefully the humidity levels in your home. It is also advisable not to go more than 4 ¼ wide.

Yes – Engineered Hardwood Can Be Refinished

One of the biggest misconceptions is that engineered can’t be sanded and re-finished. It can! Most of the lower end can be refinished once – the higher end can be sanded and refinished many times. Having done some in-store research around 96% of our customers have never refinished a floor and majority of those that have say they that did it once and never again!

The other is that it’s more expensive. Again, not true. There are many price levels in both solid and engineered and we suggest you do your research. That way you will choose the right wood for you and your home.