Are you hunting for the perfect flooring for your home?
It's a big decision. We're here to help.
Two flooring options are classic hardwood flooring and its modern counterpart, engineered hardwood. Let’s explore their differences and the pros and cons of each.
Hardwood flooring: timeless and elegant
Hardwood flooring, often called solid-wood flooring, is a traditional choice. Made from a single piece of hardwood, such as maple, walnut, oak, or cherry, it exudes timeless elegance in a variety of species, colors, and finishes.
Hardwood flooring planks are usually about ¾-inch thick, with widths varying from 2¼ to 4 inches and lengths of up to 84 inches, and they must be nailed to the subfloor, which makes installation tricky.
Hardwood flooring is relatively costly – typically between $8 and $15 per square foot – and it isn't waterproof, though it is water-resistant. (Rather than wet mopping, you’ll want to sweep and vacuum it and use special wood cleaners.) But hardwood’s life span of 30 to 100 years makes it a good investment.
Engineered hardwood: modern and practical
Now, let’s talk about engineered hardwood. At first glance, an engineered-hardwood floor looks and feels just like hardwood. The catch? It consists of a thin hardwood layer on top of a plywood core. This makes it more stable in humid conditions and easier on your budget, sometimes ranging from $4 to $7 per square foot. Engineered-hardwood planks come in a variety of sizes and are thinner and wider than traditional hardwood.
The installation of engineered-wood flooring is more DIY-friendly, often featuring a glued or interlocking plank system. While it can last up to 30 years or more, the thin hardwood layer means it can’t be refinished as often as solid wood. Engineered-wood cleaning is similar to that of hardwood except that you can occasionally use a wet mop.
The deciding factors
Appearance and comfort
- Hardwood: Offers a wide range of customization options in colors and species. The tight seams between boards post-installation give it a seamless, elegant look.
- Engineered wood: Matches hardwood in appearance but has fewer options for customization. It’s almost always prefinished.
Maintenance and care
- Hardwood: Needs regular sweeping and vacuuming, and occasional mopping with a special wood cleaner. It can be sanded and refinished multiple times.
- Engineered wood: Similar cleaning routine as hardwood. Can be refinished once or twice, but the top layer’s thickness limits this.
Life span
- Hardwood: Lasts between 30 to 100 years with proper care.
- Engineered wood: Can last up to 30 years or more. Damaged planks can be easily replaced, especially in click-and-lock installations.
Cost
- Hardwood: More expensive, with prices ranging between $8 and $15 per square foot.
- Engineered wood: More budget-friendly, sometimes costing between $4 to $7 per square foot.
Installation
- Hardwood: Typically nailed down to the subfloor.
- Engineered wood: Often installed using a click-and-lock system, making it more DIY-friendly.
Water, heat, and environment
- Hardwood: More sensitive to humidity and moisture, not recommended for high-moisture areas.
- Engineered wood: Performs better in humid locations and less prone to warping.
Natale Builders is about crafting your perfect home
At Natale Builders, we understand the importance of choosing the right flooring for your home. Whether you’re drawn to the classic elegance of hardwood or the practicality of engineered hardwood, we’re here to help you make the perfect choice. Based in Buffalo, NY, our team is dedicated to providing you with the best flooring options for your dream home.
Your dream floor awaits!
Ready to transform your home with beautiful flooring? Contact Natale Builders today! Our expertise in both hardwood and engineered-hardwood flooring will ensure your custom home is as stylish as it is comfortable. Let’s work together to make your dream home a reality.
Reach out to Natale Builders for a consultation, and take the first step towards your perfect home today! Call us, at 716-580-3318.
