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Hardwood flooring has a timeless look that is unmistakable. It adds a certain panache to any room it’s put in. When faced with replacing flooring, whether it be vinyl, carpet, or even tile, you might be considering hardwood. So, what is engineered hardwood, and how is it better than the other alternatives? There are two types of hardwood commonly used; these are engineered and solid. Both offer incredible results for new installations and areas available in a variety of wood types, stains, etc.
When considering hardwood for your home, deciding between solid and engineered hardwood will be at the top of the list. Each offers unique benefits, but ultimately the cost is a huge factor for most homeowners and project enthusiasts. You’ll find that hardwood flooring is slightly more expensive than other options, but it is certainly affordable if you know what to look for.
Engineered hardwood is slightly less expensive versus solid. On average, you can expect to pay $3 to $14 per square foot. Solid hardwood averages $8 to $15 per square foot installed. Brand and type will play a role in cost, as well as who you have performed the installation. Selecting a quality contractor and supplier will make a substantial difference in the finished product.
Longevity
You can expect your hardwood floors to last quite a while. After about ten years, hardwood flooring will need to be resurfaced. This might include sanding, staining, and sealing. Most professionals advise not to wait this long and to resurface every five years to maintain the brilliance of the wood. The key is proper care. When you take care of your hardwood floors, you can get many more years out of them. When you compare hardwood to other options like carpet, it has a clear advantage. Solid hardwood has the edge over the engineered hardwood, but both are a great option.
Eliminate Allergens
If you currently have carpet and are considering hardwood as a replacement, you’ll look forward to an allergy-friendly home. Those that now suffer from allergies can find some relief with hardwood versus replacing flooring with carpet again. Because there aren’t any fibres to trap pollen, bacteria, and other contaminants, this is an excellent choice for those that have asthma, allergies, and other respiratory conditions. Hardwood doesn’t harbour microorganisms.
Easy to Maintain
Hardwood is arguably easier to maintain than others. Though, not so fast. While hardwood is stain resistant in most cases, it will require quite a bit of sweeping to keep it looking its best. So while you won’t have to worry about eliminating stains, you will have to sweep and lightly mop alongside regular cleanings. You may need to apply wax to keep the appearance brilliant and protect the wood from staining.
The Eco-Friendly Option
If you’re looking for a sustainable option, engineered hardwood is one of the best options. There are options from responsible suppliers that source their hardwood from the FSC. The manufacturing process for engineered hardwood is less wasteful than solid hardwood. Those that are considering a more eco-friendly solution for replacing flooring may want to take a look at engineered hardwood.
To learn more about hardwood flooring and CMC Hardwood Floors, visit https://cmchardwoodfloors.com.
