Hardwood floors have many benefits
They are often beautiful, durable and easy to clean. Hardwood floors, however, usually come in two varieties: solid, which is typically made completely out of wood, and engineered, which is usually plywood with a veneer layer on top. Deciding which one is best for you depends on various factors.
On What Level Will the Floors Be?
If the hardwood floors will be in the basement, the engineered type may be best. Since basements are normally below ground level and, therefore, can absorb moisture from the ground, solid wood is usually not a good idea.
What Type of Flooring Will the Wood Go on Top of?
If you have concrete flooring, solid wood is usually not recommended.
This is due to the fact that concrete often contains moisture which can cause the solid wood to buckle. If you still prefer to use solid wood floors, plywood would need to be placed in between the concrete and hardwood floors.
Particleboard, which tends to be flimsier than other materials, is typically not a good foundation for either the solid or engineered hardwood. If you have particleboard floors, plywood may need to be installed underneath the wooden floors.
Choosing engineered and solid wood generally depends on location and the material on which the wooden floors will be placed. Call Wood Floors Unlimited at 262-367-8896 for more information on choosing the right hardwood floors for you.