Engineered vs Solid Hardwood in Toronto: Is Engineered Flooring Just as Good?

Engineered vs Solid Hardwood in Toronto: Is Engineered Flooring Just as Good?

As a proud Toronto-based company specializing in all things related to hardwood flooring, we frequently encounter a question that many homeowners and property developers ask: "Is engineered hardwood just as good as solid hardwood?" This is an important question, especially for those of us in the Greater Toronto Area, where climate conditions can greatly impact the longevity and aesthetics of our floors.

Understanding Hardwood Flooring: Solid vs. Engineered

Before we delve into our main question, it's crucial to understand what we mean by "solid hardwood flooring" and "engineered hardwood flooring".
Solid hardwood flooring is exactly what it sounds like: a flooring material made from a solid piece of hardwood. It's renowned for its timeless beauty, durability, and the value it can add to a property.
Engineered hardwood flooring, on the other hand, is a layered product. The top layer is real hardwood, but it's bonded to several underlying layers of plywood or high-density fibreboard. This structure provides engineered hardwood with some unique benefits, which we'll discuss in more detail.

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The Merits of Engineered Hardwood Flooring

Engineered hardwood flooring has grown increasingly popular in Toronto and the Greater Toronto Area, and for good reason. Here are some of the key advantages of engineered hardwood:
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1. Stability: Engineered hardwood is less susceptible to warping and movement caused by changes in humidity and temperature. This makes it a great choice for areas where moisture levels can fluctuate, like basements or kitchens.

2. Versatility: Engineered hardwood can be installed over a variety of surfaces, including concrete and radiant heating systems, offering a flexibility that solid hardwood often can't match.

3. Variety: Because the top layer of engineered hardwood is real wood, it comes in as many species and styles as solid hardwood. You can find engineered versions of all your favourite hardwoods, from oak to maple to exotic varieties.

Engineered vs Solid Hardwood: A Toronto Perspective

​​In the Toronto climate, where we experience both humid summers and dry winters, the stability of engineered hardwood can be a significant advantage. However, that's not to say that solid hardwood doesn't have its place.
Solid hardwood flooring is often seen as the premium choice because of its potential for longevity. It can be sanded and refinished multiple times, which can keep it looking great for decades. Engineered hardwood can also be refinished, but the number of times depends on the thickness of the top layer.
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So, is engineered hardwood just as good as solid hardwood?
The answer depends on your specific needs and circumstances. If you're looking for maximum longevity and have the right conditions to maintain it, solid hardwood is a fantastic choice. If you need something more versatile and stable, especially in areas with variable moisture or over concrete subfloors, engineered hardwood is likely the better option.
In conclusion, both solid and engineered hardwood offer unique benefits and can be the "right" choice depending on your specific needs. As Toronto's hardwood flooring experts, we're here to help you make the best choice for your home or project. Don't hesitate to reach out to us with your hardwood flooring questions!

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