What is the difference between solid and engineered hardwood flooring?

Engineered wood might be perfect for your next flooring project. This elegant wood flooring is more versatile than time-honored solid hardwood. Manufactured wood tolerates moisture, and it adapts to different types of subfloors. Planks are available in many species, including hickory, maple, and oak. Finishes range from matte to high-gloss, and textures range from distressed to handscraped. You can find all the latest styles at Five Star Hardwood Flooring in Sparks, Nevada. Choose between our brick and mortar or mobile showroom

Two layers

Engineered wood comprises a surface layer of hardwood supported by a base layer, usually composed of plywood. Numerous layers of plywood are situated in different directions. Because of this makeup, engineered hardwood does not warp and bow in moisture-prone spaces like basements. In short, differences between engineered and solid hardwood lie beneath the surface. However, both types of wood look the same on the surface.

Installation

In addition to a different composition, most engineered wood flooring is designed for floating floor installation. In other words, edges fit together, so the floor floats above the subfloor rather than being fastened to it. In contrast, solid hardwood flooring is nailed to a wood subfloor. Therefore, it is best to place an underlayment, or padding, between a floating floor and subfloor. The underlayment provides extra support for the planks as well as insulation.

Your locally-owned hardwood flooring company can satisfy all your flooring needs. Five Star Hardwood Flooring has been serving northern Nevada for over ten years. Some communities in our service area are Reno, Spanish Springs, Sun Valley, Verdi, Carson City, Incline Village, and Minden. Our services include residential and commercial installation, subfloor repair, and design consultation. In addition, you can use our online 'Request a showroom consultation' form to begin your hardwood flooring upgrade.