The whys and wherefores of various types of hardwood flooring
What differences are there between solid wood floor options? What is engineered wood versus solid wood? Should you choose a hardwood flooring installation over another option??
Below is a basic outline listing some upsides and downsides:
- Solid hardwood flooring is made up of solid wood pieces that are stained and finished with a protective coating. Top-quality domestic or exotic woods are used for the most beautiful and natural results.?
- Upsides: It can be sanded down and refinished multiple times during its lifetime to do away with scratches and wear and bring it back to its original beauty.
- Downsides: often more costly than other types of wood flooring and susceptible to water damage. It may not be the best choice for bathrooms or basements because of high moisture levels. Wet-mopping not possible.
- Engineered hardwood flooring is made by gluing together several wood layers with the topmost layer being hardwood. This process makes the engineered wood look identical.?
- Upsides: This process gives engineered wood more stability to handle potential gaps, buckling and cupping resulting from expansion and contraction.
- Downsides: refinishing may be an option but depends on the thickness of the top layer. May not be the best choice for areas with continuous water contact or high moisture levels. Wet mopping not possible.
- RevWood Plus: as with engineered wood, this is made with various adhered wood layers. Topped with a "design" layer that boasts a waterproof flooring system.?
- Upsides: Affordable while providing the beauty and look of hardwood. Wears well and stands up to kid and pet traffic and even comes with "All Pet Protection". Resistant to scratches and scuffs and stains. Has waterproofing qualities that will stand up to big messes and spills so can be installed in any room. Can be wet-mopped.
- Downsides: Cannot be refinished
As to how carpet or tiles compare, lifestyle and preference will play a role in your choices. Bathrooms will fare better with a tiling solution because of high moisture levels and water spills. Basements, on the other hand, may benefit from the warmth and insulating properties of carpeting.
Marion's Flooring Superstores, Portland, OR, has skilled staff that will assist you with finding the right flooring solution for your needs. We've had 52 years of experience in providing customers with great selection and professional installation. Why look elsewhere??
