Wood floors are a timeless and elegant alternative for the home, office, gyms and other spaces where you want to make an impact from an aesthetic perspective.
In this article, we will talk about the types of hardwood floors, as each variant has its own characteristics being more suitable for certain uses.
Read on!
Different types of hardwood floors
Well, there are 3 different kinds of hardwood floors:
Solid wood
Solid wood is one of the most traditional and durable types, it is composed entirely of a single piece of wood, which makes it extremely resistant and easy to restore.
It is produced by direct cutting of a tree trunk, without any additional processing.
Thanks to their solid nature, they can last a lifetime if properly cared for.
It is recommended for high-traffic areas, such as hallways and living rooms.
If they suffer damage over time, they can be sanded and restored to their original appearance, which is not always possible with other types of wood.
Solid wood has a warm, natural look that improves over time as it develops a unique patina as it ages.
Engineered wood
Engineered wood is a modern alternative that combines the durability of wood with technology to provide a product that is more affordable and easier to install.
This type of flooring is composed of several layers of wood, with the top layer being real wood and the bottom layers being plywood or a similar material.
The multi-layered structure of engineered wood makes it less susceptible to changes in temperature and humidity, making it an excellent choice for areas with variable climates, such as basements and kitchens.
Most engineered wood floors feature “click” installation systems, which simplify installation without the need for adhesives or nails.
By having a natural wood top layer, these floors mimic the appearance of solid wood.
The main disadvantage of engineered wood is that, although it is quite durable, it cannot be restored in the same manner as solid wood.
In addition, the top finish can wear over time if not properly cared for.
Laminate wood
Laminate wood, also known as engineered or high-pressure flooring, is a type of flooring that is manufactured by fusing several layers of materials together.
The top layer mimics the appearance of real wood, but is made of a decorative laminate, while the layers below are made of cheaper materials such as resins or fibers.
For those on a tighter budget, laminate wood is much less expensive than solid or engineered wood.
Laminate flooring is very resistant to scratches, stains and wear and tear, making it perfect for homes with children or pets.
Although the top layer is not real wood, advances in laminate technology make it possible to recreate almost any type of natural wood finish.
It has the disadvantage that it cannot be restored if damaged.
Conclusion
That’s all for today! Now that you know the hardwood flooring types with their respective peculiarities between one and the other.
You can define which one is the most suitable for your space.
