When renovating or building a home, one of the crucial decisions you’ll face is choosing the right type of flooring. Hardwood and engineered hardwood floors are both popular choices, but they come with distinct characteristics and benefits. As your trusted flooring expert in Los Angeles CA, Monarch Carpet is here to break down these differences so you can make an informed choice that complements your lifestyle and enhances your home.

Composition and Construction

Traditional hardwood floors are crafted from single pieces of wood cut from various species such as oak, maple, or walnut. These floors are known for their authenticity and longevity, and they can be sanded and refinished multiple times over the years. This is typically why hardwood floors are more expensive than engineered hardwood floors.

Engineered hardwood is a modern alternative that consists of a top layer of hardwood veneer attached to several layers of plywood or high-density fiberboard (HDF). This construction method enhances the floor’s stability and resistance to environmental changes, such as humidity and temperature, which can cause solid hardwood to warp or expand.

Durability and Maintenance

Solid hardwood is extremely durable and can last for decades if properly maintained. However, it is susceptible to scratches and can be damaged by excessive moisture. It is best suited for areas in the home that are less likely to be subject to water and moisture, like living rooms or bedrooms. While you can put it in kitchens, you should avoid installing hardwood floors in the basement or bathroom.

Engineered hardwood offers a similar level of durability but is more resistant to moisture and heat compared to solid hardwood. This makes it suitable for use in parts of the home where humidity levels might fluctuate, such as basements or kitchens. It can also handle heavy foot traffic well but, depending on the thickness of the top veneer, may only be able to be refinished a limited number of times.

Aesthetic Appeal

Hardwood flooring offers a classic look that can add significant value to your home. Each plank has a unique grain pattern, which ensures no two floors are exactly alike. And the natural variations in color and texture add character and warmth to any space.

Engineered hardwood also provides a wide range of aesthetic options and can mimic the look of solid hardwood very closely. Because the top layer is wood, it looks nearly identical to solid wood once installed. Engineered floors are available in various finishes and can be manufactured with more uniformity, which may appeal to those seeking a consistent appearance across their floors.

Choosing the Right Flooring with Monarch Carpet

Whether you’re drawn to the traditional charm of solid hardwood or the versatile durability of engineered hardwood, Monarch Carpet has the expertise to guide you through the selection process. Visit our showroom or explore our website at Monarch Carpet to see our wide selection of flooring options. Our team is dedicated to helping you find the perfect match for your home so you can enjoy it for years to come!

To learn more about the dependable and quality flooring products and services that we offer, visit us on the web at Monarch Carpet.