Hardwood flooring is known for its durability and overall beauty, and they are rapidly becoming the preferred choice in flooring over carpeting. Installing them is not an easy task however, and you should hire a professional such as The Flooring Pro Guys for your flooring installation. Hardwood floors have slowly gained popularity back, due to their low maintenance requirement and elegance.
If you want real wood floors, you have two types to choose from: solid wood and engineered wood.
Solid hardwood floors are literally cut from a plank of wood, meaning they are “solid”. Because they are natural wood, your floors will have natural and unique variations. However, hardwood can be hard to work with, due to its humidity, moisture, and temperature needs. It is an expensive flooring choice, but you can be sure that it will last a lifetime with proper care. The cost is usually about three times what other wood floor choices would run you.
Hardwood floors can be very finicky. They expand and contract based on the weather, and this can often lead to your floor warping or cause it to buckle. Engineered hardwood floors also expand and contract, but because of their multi-layer design, will not be damaged.
Engineered wood flooring is a cheaper option than hardwood, yet provides a similar look and feel. This type of flooring is made by gluing many pieces of wood together to create plywood, and then gluing multiple layers of plywood together, and finally, gluing a thin piece of actual hardwood on top.
This actually makes engineered wood strong than hardwood. It can even be installed directly over concrete. The price of engineered wood floors depends on the thickness on the wood, which is directly proportionate to their strength.
If you want the wood floor look, without the high cost, consider wood tile.
Wood tile is exactly what it sounds like. It provides the look of real wood, with the durability of tile. It won’t stain, and you will not have to worry about moisture ruining it. If one of the tiles breaks, you simply replace that one tile. Wood tile is so durable that it can be used both indoors and outdoors. They are usually made from either ceramic or porcelain tiles, and designed to look like glossy and smooth floorboards, and some with the grain and texture of hardwood.
Your flooring material choice will depend on a few variables. If budget is no concern, go with real solid hardwood, it just can’t be beat for the look. If you are worried about any moisture, such as a bathroom, use wood tiles. If you are want the real wood feel without the high price, go with engineered wood flooring. There are many styles available with each type of flooring. Pick up some samples and order your materials today.