Hardwood flooring is a stunning choice for most homes, but for some people switching to solid hardwood could be too expensive. Some people will seek out a home specifically with hardwood floors in mind. Yet, in this day and age, you can choose a flooring solution similar to solid hardwood installed in your home. Instead of opting for nail-down solid hardwood, you can switch things up with engineered hardwood flooring.  

What is Engineered Wood Flooring? 

Engineered wood flooring is a type of wood flooring that contains layers of plywood in the middle, with the top and bottom layers made with 100% natural wood. The plywood is placed in a crisscrossed pattern to aid in its stability. On the surface, the engineered wood flooring is designed to feel and look exactly like hardwood floors. 

What are the Differences Between Engineered Wood Flooring and Hardwood Floors? 

Hardwood flooring is solid wood. You have an assortment of wood species to choose from, including:  

• Walnut 
• Maple 
• Cherry 
• Oak 
• Birch 
• Bamboo 
• Mahogany 

Remember that you will pay a premium price for bamboo, birch, mahogany, or other exotic choices like teak or jarrah because many manufacturers do not carry these types of wood species, making it hard to source. Other than the materials of the engineered wood floors and solid wood floors differing, there are a few different factors to consider if you are trying to choose between the two, for example:  

1. Installation: Hardwood flooring installation involves installing the wood planks by nailing them down with exact precision. It takes skillful carpentry. Engineered wood flooring is easier to install but should still be done by a professional so that there are no damages.  

2. Cost: When it comes to price, plan on paying twice as much for nail-down hardwood than you would for engineered wood flooring. However, solid wood flooring will last from 30-100 years. For hardwood, plan on spending $8 to $15 per square foot, depending on the type of wood. The price for engineered wood flooring is usually between $4 to $7 per square foot.  

3. Moisture Adaptability: Neither solid hardwood nor engineered wood flooring is entirely waterproof. In comparison, engineered wood flooring is more water-resistant than hardwood. This is the main reason for using a hardwood solution like the Bono system for cleaning hardwood rather than water. 

4. Lifespan: One of the reasons hardwood floors are so endearing is that they have a lifespan of 30-100 years. They give an old home charm and history and a new home elegance and class. The nail-down hardwood flooring can be refinished at least once and sometimes multiple times, depending on the type of wood. If you choose the species Red Oak, you will find it is the most durable of all solid hardwood species. Considering the material that makes up engineered wood flooring, it has an impressive lifespan of 30 years or more. However, the engineered hardwood cannot be refinished. When significant damage happens, this flooring must be replaced entirely. 

5. Maintenance: Engineered wood flooring and hardwood flooring are easier than you would imagine maintaining. They only need vacuuming, sweeping, and mopping with a hardwood cleaner, never water! However, hardwood floors are better for long-term maintenance since they can be sanded down and refinished several times. 

Hardwood or Engineered Wood Flooring Near Me 

Both flooring solutions are fantastic choices. It will come down to what is the most aesthetically appealing to you and your budget. At 98 Flooring Mattress and Outlet, we have styles to meet every budget that look fabulous in every house! We are also here for you every step of the way when it comes to the installation process. Our installation time is made up of a team that is knowledgeable, quick, and efficient at installing hardwood or engineered wood flooring. If you are in the process of building a home or upgrading your home and need new flooring, please stop into our showroom. We have 2 convenient locations in Panama City Beach and Miramar Beach. For great prices and a huge selection, visit 98 Flooring Mattress and Outlet.