The eternal debate between engineered wood flooring and solid hardwood flooring. Which one is better for your home? Wood floor has long been admired for its beauty and durability, both can add visual interest and value when applied to interiors. but, before driving straight into it, there are a few things you must know. Look out for more as we do an in-depth comparison between solid hardwood and engineered wood flooring.
What is Engineered Wood Flooring?
Engineered hardwood is constructed of multiple layers of wood, which are heat- and pressure-bonded together. The top layer, also known as the veneer or wear layer, is a thin layer of a real natural wood, and the layers underneath are usually plywood or high-density fiberboard (HDF). This makes engineered hardwood flooring much less likely to expand and contract, and thus more suitable for use over concrete or in humid environments like basements or kitchens.
What is Solid Hardwood Flooring?
Solid wood flooring is entirely made from wood. Known for its timeless beauty, with the ability to be sanded several times over, solid hardwood flooring continues to be one of the most sought-after selections for homeowners. Solid hardwood flooring, whether you opt for oak, maple, or cherry, can bring warmth and style to any space. However, it is more prone to warping and swelling when wet, a downside in certain environments.
Comparing Solid Hardwood Flooring and Engineered Timber Flooring Price
Regarding engineered timber floor cost, solid hardwood usually comes out to be more expensive. Engineered flooring is sometimes an affordable choice since it consumes less natural resources. Engineered wood flooring can also be simpler to put in, particularly if you choose a click-lock style, therefore perhaps saving on labor expenses.
Solid Hardwood flooring in Malaysia, however, can be rather expensive, especially for premium wood varieties. In countries such Malaysia, where solid hardwood choices like teak and mahogany abound, pricing may change according to supply and need. Although solid hardwoods may demand a more substantial first investment, they are famed for their timeless appeal and lifespan, so providing long-term value for your house.
Installation and Maintenance
Both kinds of flooring provide benefits during installation. Engineered wood flooring can be installed straight over most current floors and is simpler and faster to install. For many homeowners, this can be a great cost-effective, and time-saver. Solid Hardwood flooring maintenance, on the other hand, usually demands a more complex installation method that sometimes calls for skilled setup and glue or nails, hence increasing both the expense and duration.
Concerning upkeep, both alternatives are rather low-maintenance but have a few distinctions. Though engineered wood flooring better tolerates moisture, it still need daily cleaning to prevent wear and scratches. Though more vulnerable to moisture damage, solid hardwood flooring may be sanded and refinished several times to bring back its look following years of use. Long-term upkeep of this gives it a definite edge.
Performance
Engineered Hardwood flooring might be the better option if you live in an area with great temperature changes or high humidity, as Malaysia does. Engineered wood’s multi-layer design makes it more stable than solid hardwood; consequently, exposed to environmental swings it won’t shrink, deform, or swell nearly as much. Its stability makes it perfect for homes with different temperatures and levels of humidity.
Solid hardwood flooring, on the other hand, works best in carefully managed settings with constant humidity levels. Installing it in locations like restrooms or kitchens can become a good option, given the great moisture content found in these areas.
Aesthetic Appeal
Solid hardwood flooring and engineered alternatives are quite appealing in terms of looks. Similar to solid hardwood, engineered flooring made of natural hardwoods gives the top veneer layer of real wood the same beauty and feel as a solid wood floor. Engineered wood’s layered architecture allows it to have more variety in finishes and textures, therefore providing a modern or rural appearance depending on your taste.
But solid hardwood floors provide the natural grain and rich hues that are difficult to reproduce. Solid hardwood may be the best option if you are someone who appreciates the genuine feel of solid wood. Furthermore, solid hardwood can be sanded down and restained, something engineered flooring cannot do as easily, if you like the idea of refinishing your floors.
Conclusion
As a Conclusion, there are advantages to both engineered and solid hardwood floors, so it really depends on what you need and the look you want. If you are looking for the best budget, stability, and water resistance, Eco Floor’s engineered flooring is the most suitable option. It is a great substitute for moisture-prone areas that will be easy to clean and have an upscale feel. On the flip side, if you don’t mind spending a bit more for the good stuff, solid hardwood flooring of any variety is a solid investment that will add value and character to your home.
At EcoFloor, we are committed to bringing you the highest quality, environmentally friendly flooring at a fair and affordable price that you can proudly stand on. We will help you make the perfect decision for your space so you can have floors that offer long-lasting strength and beauty for decades to come!Contact us now!
