Selecting the right hardwoods - engineered vs solid hardwood - can really make a difference in longevity and wearability.
Engineered hardwoods have many advantages. Although the stereotype is that an engineered floor is not a “real wood” it is actually a real hardwood wear layer over a plywood base. Your wear layer is exactly the same as a solid wood in any of our hardwood floors. Engineered hardwood still offers superior quality with excellent benefits. Both engineered and solid hardwoods we carry can be refinished to the same thickness.
With many of the products going to wider planks, the engineered product provides more dimensional stability so it is less likely to cup or washboard when it naturally expands and contracts. Engineered is usually suggested for wider planks (6+ " plank). Engineered is also available in a variety of thicknesses, and can be a great candidate when adding too much floor height is not an option. We always recommend gluing or nailing a engineered hardwood floor for the proper fit and feel.
Solid hardwood has remained popular. Many consumers prefer to have a solid hardwood floor for many reasons. It often may require additional floor prep when updating to hardwoods. We recommend keeping the plank narrow (less than 4″) to minimize warping and cupping as humidity and temperature change throughout the year.
If you are unsure what the best option is for your home, start by having a Koeber's hardwood expert out to your home for an in home consultation. Also browse ideas in stain, wood type, etc. by looking at our past installations.
Engineered hardwood cross section.
Solid hardwood cross section.