When To Use Engineered Floors

Engineered floors are a great alternative to solid hardwood floors. Since there are advantages and disadvantages to both types of wood, the choice can come down solely to your preference. There are, however, situations where using engineered floors are favorable. Here are the instances in which engineered floors may be the best fit for your home.

 

Rooms with Subfloor Radiant Heat

Radiant heat is known for being energy efficient, and to increase the levels of efficiency by even more, engineered floors can help. Since the floor is thinner, it can transfer heat easier than solid hardwood floors.

Basements

Since basements are at a lower level, they attract moisture, which can damage solid wood. Engineered wood is much more durable to moisture due to its stability from its multi-ply construction, and reduces the worry of shrinking and expanding with the changes in temperature and humidity.

During Remodels

Due to its range of thickness options, engineered floors allow you to produce transitions between different types of floors at stairways and doorways that otherwise would be difficult with regular solid flooring.

Advantages of Engineered Hardwood Flooring Over Solid Hardwood

Enhanced Stability and Durability

Engineered hardwood flooring is designed with multiple layers, which makes it more resistant to changes in temperature and humidity compared to solid hardwood. This construction minimizes the risk of warping, buckling, or shrinking, making it a more durable choice for areas with fluctuating environmental conditions, such as basements or regions with high humidity.

Easier Installation Options

Unlike solid hardwood, which typically requires professional installation due to its thickness and need for precise nailing, engineered hardwood can often be installed as a floating floor or glued directly onto a variety of surfaces. This versatility allows for quicker and more cost-effective installation, even over existing flooring.

Greater Affordability

Engineered hardwood is often more affordable than solid hardwood because its core layers are made from less expensive materials such as plywood or high-density fiberboard. Despite the cost difference, it still provides a similar aesthetic and surface durability since the top layer is made of real hardwood.

Wider Range of Applications

Engineered hardwood’s resistance to moisture allows it to be installed in areas where solid hardwood is not recommended, such as bathrooms or kitchens. This expands its usability throughout the home, offering more flexibility for design and functionality.

Eco-Friendliness

Engineered hardwood uses less solid wood in its construction, making it a more sustainable option. By utilizing fast-growing wood species for the core, it conserves slow-growing hardwood species, contributing to environmental preservation.

 

On another note, never use engineered floors where it is vulnerable to wet feet, a lot of drips, busy bathrooms, or even laundry rooms. Even though it can handle moisture better than solid hardwood, it still has restrictions, and can put these floors at risk.

Still have questions regarding engineered and solid hardwood floors? Contact the hardwood flooring experts at Signature Hardwood Floors for a FREE ESTIMATE. You can call us at 410.415.0755 or click here today! You can also follow us on Facebook, Twitter