What Are the Differences Between Hardwood Flooring and Engineered Wood Flooring?

HomeBlogWhat Are the Differences Between Hardwood Flooring and Engineered Wood Flooring?

Wood flooring is a popular choice to get in homes, but there are a couple of different options to consider. One option is hardwood flooring, and the other is engineered wood flooring. What are the differences between these two options? Here is a breakdown of each of them.

What Are the Differences Between Hardwood Flooring and Engineered Wood Flooring?

  • Hardwood flooring is made of solid wood. Its planks usually come in a variety of sizes, and it has tight seams once it is installed. There are several types of wood to choose from, including oak, maple, and hickory. Its lifespan is 30 years to 100 years. It is water resistant, but not waterproof. It can be sanded down and refinished into whatever color you desire. This floor is pretty easy to clean, but a wet mop should be avoided–it should be swept and vacuumed instead. There are special kinds of wood floor cleaners that can be used on it as needed.
  • Engineered wood flooring is made up of different layers, with natural wood on the top, plywood crisscrossed in the middle, and wood on the bottom. However, once installed, it looks like hardwood. There is more variety in the plank sizes that can be used than hardwood, but there are fewer options for style and color than hardwood. The lifespan of this floor is up to 30 years with proper care. It cannot be sanded down and refinished, but the planks are easily replaceable. While it is not waterproof, it is water resistant, and you can use a wet mop on this floor occasionally and also use special wood floor cleaners. The overall cost for this flooring is less than hardwood.

Now that you know the differences between these types of wood flooring, come see our selection at Enterprise Wholesale Flooring and Lighting. We will help you find what will work best for your needs.