The two main hardwood flooring types

There’s solid hardwood flooring and engineered wood floors and, while they both look pretty alike on the surface, they also behave very differently in specific installations. Engineered is now taking over a significant share of the wood flooring industry because it appeals to people who want both beauty and practicality.

Similar products, different construction

When you visit our wood floor store in Sacramento, CA, you’ll see that, with either, you can have beautiful surfaces with species such as oak, walnut, hickory, ash, or more. There will be undertones, knots, grains, swirls, and textures. Both add value to a property, are long-lasting and versatile, and can be refinished. This, however, is where any sameness ends.

While solid is one thickness throughout, engineered is layered with genuine wood and a little resin. The layers are placed crosswise, enabling them to be installed in any house grade and some higher-than-normal moisture areas.

Accessible hardwood flooring installation

Solid is permanently installed with the tongue and groove/nail down technique, and the subfloor sometimes requires repair and restoration. Engineered floors can be glued, stapled, or float.

Installers love a floating floor; pieces click together, mat, and then hover over the subfloor without nails or glue. It's fast and uncomplicated and, as a result, that makes these floors less expensive. Furthermore, any subfloor is acceptable as long as it's clean, dry, and level.

Whether you choose engineered or solid floors, always consider thickness, as that determines the number of times a floor can be refinished. Engineered ranges from ⅜-inch to ½-inch and a more robust engineered floor can be refinished up to four or five times and last 40-50 years.

With over 30 years of experience, high-quality products from brands such as DuChateau and Mohawk, and superior, craftsman-like installations, consider Palm Tile & Stone Gallery for your hardwood flooring needs. If you live or work in Sacramento, Folsom, Roseville, Eldorado Hills, or Elk Grove, CA., come into our Sacramento showroom to learn more and get a free quote.