Today there are so many options for flooring, but in the New York Tri-state area the favorite is still solid hardwood. The species of wood is a matter of taste. I have found in my practice that there is a demand for all varieties.
Hardwood is a term used to distinguish between ordinary lumber and engineered wood; however, hardwood can also refer to structures that do not have hollow spaces and are solid. Many people want to compromise by installing something else in their space to save on cost. I tend to always believe that what is natural is always superior. Floors are different, I find myself suggesting that people purchase engineered hardwood floors because of the advantages.
I’m often asked about engineered hardwood flooring. So what exactly is it? Engineered hardwood flooring is also called composite wood, man-made wood, or manufactured board. It includes a range of derivative wood floor products that are manufactured by binding or fixing the strands, particles, fibers, veneers or boards of wood, together with adhesives to form a composite floor. It is however made with 100% real wood that has a layer of hardwood veneer affixed to the top surface.
Both solid and engineered hardwood flooring are very durable, but the wear layer of an engineered hardwood floor only allows it to be sanded and refinished twice before you need to replace the flooring. Keep in mind that this may vary a little from manufacturer to manufacturer. Engineered flooring can be guaranteed anywhere from 20 to100 years, 30 to 50 years being most typical.
The wear layer is the top solid part of the floor that will wear away as your floor ages. Hardwood flooring is solid and the wear layer can usually be sanded and refinished three to six times before the flooring needs to be replaced. When cared for correctly your hardwood floor will last a very long time. Since solid hardwood flooring has a thicker wear layer, your floor can be sanded and refinished more often, increasing its lifespan. The best engineered wood floors available will last as almost as long and perform as well as a solid plank wood hardwood floor. Another consideration to keep in mind is how long you want this material to last.
Engineered hardwood floors tend to be easier to install and are usually less expensive than solid hardwood. But that’s not always the case. You will find some engineered hardwood flooring that are the same or even more expensive than solid wood flooring. The reason it is a popular item is because it’s easier to install and the install price is usually less expensive. Engineered hardwood flooring isn’t affected by humidity as much as solid hardwood. It’s more resistant to moisture and heat because it’s bonded together with adhesives under intense heat and pressure. That’s something that we keep in mind when doing a kitchen remodel. It also doesn’t shrink or expand, which makes it resistant to warping and cupping.
