If you’re looking to add elegance and charm to your home, hardwood flooring is the ultimate luxury when it comes to style. Refined and timeless, hardwood can transform the overall look, feel, and aesthetic of your space instantly. If you’re considering adding hardwood to your home, and are wondering what the difference between different kinds are, the team at Ashley Fine Floors is here to help! Learn more about the difference between engineered and traditional hardwood, as well as a few basic care tips below!
To Follow Tradition Or Try Something New
One of the most common questions homeowners have when they begin to delve into the world of hardwood is the difference between traditional and engineered hardwood.
As the name suggests, Traditional Hardwood is crafted from a single plank of wood, and designed to be thick enough to allow for multiple re-sandings over decades. Solid hardwood is durable, but can be vulnerable to scratches as well as shrinking and expanding due to humidity exposure.
Engineered Hardwood is made from several layers of melted plywood that are coated with a hardwood veneer. The planks are slightly thinner than solid hardwood and therefore can only be sanded a few times, but are less susceptible to humidity fluctuations. Engineered hardwood can also be placed in areas where traditional hardwood is ill-suited, such as over concrete foundations or radiant heating.
When it comes to making your decision, it’s important to consider your overall budget (engineered hardwood is sometimes slightly cheaper), how long you would like your floors to last before the need to be sanded or replaced, and if you would like more peace of mind where moisture is concerned.
General Care
In terms of overall maintenance, hardwood does tend to require a little more care and awareness than other materials to keep its lustre. That being said, with some foresight you can easily settle into a routine that makes it simple to stay on top of cleaning. A few basic rules to keep in mind are:
- Be cautious of anything that may lead to scratches: heavy furniture being moved, walking in high heels, and a build up of dirt and debris.
- Clean spills and liquids immediately
- Shelter your floors from prolonged exposure to direct sunlight or heat
- Be diligent with any cleaners you use. Always make sure they are hardwood approved!
With the right guidance and planning, hardwood floors can be the perfect addition to any home. Learn more about hardwood and what best suits your space by contacting Ashley Fine Floors today!