As you try to decide on the right flooring material for your home, you may narrow it down to engineered floors and hardwood floors. You know you want real hardwood because of how it feels to walk on, that it can be refinished and adds style that other flooring materials just can duplicate. How do you make your final decision? Here are some considerations that may steer you to one or the other.
Finish & Refinishing
Both products come in pre-finished and ready to finish options. One benefit of engineered flooring that’s prefinished is that you won’t have to deal with the smell of the stain and finish. Another benefit is that most prefinished engineered flooring has multiple layers of topcoat to better protect the wood. You can do this when you finish either product in your home, however, that will mean more coats which will mean more expense (and drying time).
As for refinishing, if you choose a quality engineered product you can refinish it. The thickness of the wear layer, or topmost layer that is real hardwood will determine how many times you can refinish it. Real hardwood can be refinished many times and even stained different colors. This isn’t always possible with engineered wood floors.
Longevity
You may think at first that real hardwood wins this battle. Afterall, it’s thicker and can last virtually forever. You’ve probably seen an old home with hardwood flooring that’s more than one hundred years old. However, engineered floors can last nearly as long and will likely last longer than you own the home. So, in reality, this one is a draw.
Environmental Impact
The only truly low environmental impact wood flooring product is reclaimed wood. You’re only going to see an impact from the re-sanding and shipping. It’s already been harvested and used in a home or barn. However, flooring manufacturers today are very conscious of the environment. Many re-plant more trees than they harvest each year. Admittedly, because engineered wood floors have less actual wood than real hardwood, they do have a lower environmental impact.
Price
You may be surprised to learn that the cost of the products don’t vary much, especially when you choose quality engineered floors. The only real way to get an exact comparison of price is to call Authentic Hardwood Flooring for a free quote. We’ll provide you with a free quote on both engineered and hardwood flooring. Call us today at (727) 786-6330 or fill out our contact form.
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