At Luxury Flooring, one of the most common questions we get from our customers is: what are the differences between Solid and Engineered Wood? Both are made from real wood, but they differ in their construction and room compatibility. Here is our guide outlining the differences between these two varieties of flooring.
Construction
The first real difference between these two products is the way they are constructed. Solid wood is crafted from one single piece of timber which allows you to sand it down as many times as you like in case of damage. That being said, solid wood is undoubtedly one of the most durable floors on the market and it is generally not necessary to sand it down within the first 15-20 years after its installation.
Conversely, engineered wood is made up of multiple layers of plywood with a top layer of stunning solid wood. This wear layer does allow you to sand engineered wood down, but the thickness of this layer determines the number of times this can actually be done. Thanks to this robust construction, engineered flooring is resistant to changes in temperature and humidity making it compatible with underfloor heating.
Room compatibility
The incredible durability of solid wood flooring makes it an ideal choice for use in rooms that see the highest foot traffic, such as the hallway or the living room. However, it would not be suitable for use in a bathroom as it is not resistant to water. If you place solid wood in rooms that are exposed to large quantities of water, you risk damaging your floor. It is definitely worth remembering when you are choosing your flooring.
If you are really set on that real wood appearance in your bathroom, engineered wood is a great option. It is resistant to water, but we always recommend cleaning up any spillages as soon as possible. Engineered wood flooring is a perfect choice for any room in the house – its mix of practicality, durability and style ensure that it will enhance any room in which it is installed.
Here are some other differences and some similarities between solid and engineered wood:
- Solid is generally more expensive than engineered
- Both are available in a parquet style (Herringbone)
- Both are able to be floated, glued or nailed down (depending on the particular product)
- Solid wood has a slightly longer lifespan than engineered
- Both are available in a wide range of finishes/colours/textures
Have Your Say
What do you prefer in home décor: minimalism or something with more character? Let us know in the comments below!
Remember to follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram for the latest news and discussions. We’re always finding new ways to improve our stock, so keep up to date! Check out our Painswick Swift Oak in the picture above – a beautiful parquet floor which adds a touch of sophistication to any home!
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