Engineered and Solid Hardwood

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Part wood floor, part engineering masterpiece, engineered wood flooring offers the best of both worlds. The real wood veneer layer offers the style and unique look of naturally occurring planks.

Meanwhile, the engineered core delivers the durability you can’t find with genuine wood flooring. This core can be made of high-density fiberboard (HDF), stone-plastic composite (SPC), or engineered plywood.

The floor’s core also offers resiliency, durability, and some moisture resistance that solid hardwood doesn’t have.

I’m sure you’re excited to learn more about engineered hardwood. So let’s jump in! 

The moisture resistance of engineered hardwood comes from the layered design. This flooring will be more or less resistant to moisture depending on the composition of those layers.

Here’s where you find the veneer of genuine wood that gives your flooring its beautiful, unique look. While some engineered wood planks are made more durable by a scratch-resistant finish, the veneer layer hangs tough against wear and tear. Plus, the wood veneer can be almost any wood species you want.

The manufacturer will determine in their instructions if this layer is thick enough to refinish or not. Always check the manufacturer’s instructions before sanding or refinishing engineered wood.

This is the powerhouse of the plank. The core increases the durability of your floor and is often specifically designed to reduce expansion and contraction with changes in ambient temperatures.

Engineered hardwood’s high-density fiberboard (HDF), stone-plastic composite (SPC), or engineered plywood core offers moisture resistance, especially paired with wax and other water-repellent materials. The moisture resistance of an engineered core lessens the odds that your floors will buckle when installed properly.

The backing on most engineered wood planks is another type of wood similar to the veneer on top of the plank. This layer provides a sturdy foundation for your floor and works perfectly with your choice of underlayment.

While some engineered hardwood comes with an attached underlayment, it’s more common to use a separate underlayment with a moisture barrier for added protection.

Engineered wood floors are so versatile that they work well in every room and on every level of the home. They’re stylish, durable, moisture-resistant, and add monetary value to your home, so they have something to offer wherever you install them.

Here are a few places you’re going to love the option of engineered hardwood where traditional hardwood floors typically can’t be installed.

• Kitchens: Finally, you can have real wood in the kitchen. Engineered wood looks great and it holds up against moisture, so it’s going to thrive in a kitchen setting.
• Basements: Install engineered hardwood to benefit from a durable floor. It’s easy to take care of, too, so you won’t have a large area of high-maintenance flooring.
• Other high-traffic areas: With its thick surface layer and scratch-resistant finish, engineered hardwood is an excellent choice for many busy areas of the home.