At Reliable Design-Build-Remodel, located right here in Birmingham, AL, we know that homeowners have more choices than ever when it comes to flooring. One increasingly popular option is engineered wood flooring. Unlike traditional hardwood, which is made from a single solid piece of wood, engineered wood consists of a top layer of real hardwood veneer bonded over layers of high-quality plywood. This construction offers both the aesthetic appeal of real wood and added structural stability, making it a strong choice for many homes—especially in the humid Southern climate.
Is engineered hardwood or hardwood better?
This is one of the most common questions we get from homeowners. The answer depends on your specific needs and lifestyle. Solid hardwood is known for its longevity and can be sanded and refinished multiple times. However, it can also expand and contract with humidity changes, which may not make it ideal for every room or climate. Engineered hardwood, on the other hand, is more stable thanks to its multi-layered core. This makes it less likely to warp or buckle in rooms with fluctuating moisture levels. In Birmingham homes, where humidity can be a factor, engineered wood is often the more practical choice for basements and kitchens.
What are the negatives of engineered wood flooring?
While engineered wood flooring offers a lot of benefits, it’s not without its drawbacks. One limitation is that it typically can’t be sanded and refinished as many times as solid hardwood. This is because the real wood veneer on top is thinner than a full plank of hardwood. Additionally, lower-quality engineered wood options may use softer wood or lower-grade adhesives, which can impact durability over time. That’s why we always recommend working with a trusted remodeling contractor who sources high-quality materials. At Reliable Design-Build-Remodel, we help you choose products that will stand the test of time.
Is engineered wood better than laminate?
Engineered wood and laminate are often compared because they both offer affordability and ease of installation. However, they are quite different in terms of composition and performance. Engineered wood has a real hardwood surface, giving it the warmth and beauty of natural wood. Laminate flooring, in contrast, features a photographic layer that mimics wood over a fiberboard core. While laminate may be more scratch-resistant and budget-friendly, it lacks the authenticity and potential resale value of engineered wood. For homeowners in Birmingham who want the look and feel of real wood without the cost of solid hardwood, engineered wood is typically the better investment.
Which is better: engineered wood or real wood flooring?
“Better” can be subjective depending on what you value most. Real wood flooring offers unmatched beauty and can last a century if maintained properly. It also allows for multiple refinishes, which can refresh its appearance over time. Engineered wood, while not quite as long-lasting in terms of refinishing, brings versatility and moisture resistance that real wood often lacks. For busy households, or homes with children and pets, engineered wood may offer a more forgiving surface. In our experience at Reliable Design-Build-Remodel, many Birmingham homeowners prefer engineered wood in high-traffic areas and reserve solid hardwood for more formal spaces.
How long does an engineered wood floor last?
With proper installation and care, engineered wood flooring can last anywhere from 20 to 30 years—and sometimes even longer. The lifespan largely depends on the thickness of the veneer layer, the quality of the core materials, and how well the floor is maintained. Thicker veneers can be lightly sanded and refinished once or twice, which can extend the life of the floor. Routine cleaning, using furniture pads, and managing humidity levels in your home will go a long way in preserving your investment. At Reliable Design-Build-Remodel, we guide our clients on how to maintain their flooring so it remains beautiful for decades to come.
What is better, luxury vinyl or engineered hardwood?
Luxury vinyl plank (LVP) flooring has surged in popularity due to its waterproof properties, affordability, and realistic wood-look finishes. It’s a great option for areas prone to spills, such as bathrooms, laundry rooms, or even finished basements. However, engineered hardwood offers the warmth, texture, and visual appeal of real wood, which luxury vinyl can only imitate. If you’re looking to boost home value and desire a more natural aesthetic, engineered hardwood often comes out ahead. On the other hand, if water resistance and minimal maintenance are your top priorities, LVP might be the way to go. We help our Birmingham clients weigh these options carefully based on lifestyle and room usage.
Engineered wood flooring is a versatile, attractive option that bridges the gap between traditional hardwood and more modern alternatives like laminate and luxury vinyl. At Reliable Design-Build-Remodel, we’ve installed engineered wood in homes all across Birmingham and seen firsthand how it enhances a room’s character while providing practical benefits. Whether you’re remodeling one room or your entire home, we’re here to help you navigate the many flooring options available and find the right solution for your space. If you’re still wondering “what is engineered wood flooring,” we’d be happy to show you samples and walk you through all the options that make the most sense for your home.
Reliable Design-Build-Remodel is a full service general construction firm and remodeling contractor operating in the Birmingham metro and Jefferson and Shelby County areas and surrounding communities, including Birmingham, Helena, Chelsea, Mountain Brook, Hoover, Homewood, Montevallo, Alabaster, Vestavia Hills, and Pelham, with over 30 years of servicing our valued clients. Offering full service suite of general remodeling, design and build services. Our specialties include bathroom remodeling, kitchen remodeling, exterior renovations, interior renovations, painting, and more!
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