A Comparison: Natural Hardwood vs. Engineered Hardwood
When it comes to renovation decisions, you are going to have them in abundance if you decide to upgrade the floors in your home. There are countless options for hardwood flooring that can all appear very similar externally. What you must keep in mind is that the subtle differences are going to determine how long your flooring is going to last, how much it is going to cost you, and how frequently it is going to need repairs, says a flooring company in Kansas City, the highly reputable Kansas City Flooring Pros.
In this article, you will get the chance to do a side-by-side comparison on two of the most commonly sought after floor types–natural hardwood and engineered hardwood.
Why Do Homeowners Choose Hardwood?
In general, hardwood flooring is a very popular choice. Not only does it look great, but it also feels great. With the ability to instantly make a room feel more elegant, many homeowners are ditching carpet to upgrade to something that will make them feel like their home holds more classic value.
Aside from its visual benefits, hardwood flooring is also fairly easy to clean compared to carpet. Both natural and engineered alike have the benefit of being wiped and mopped.
While the cost to you might be a bit higher upfront when compared to other floor types, you are going to receive its value in return. Hardwood flooring tends to last longer than other flooring.
Whether you want to stay with the natural wood finish or opt for something more technologically advanced, such as engineered hardwood, you are going to be paying way less in upkeep and maintenance than you would if you selected carpet.
If you are considering selling your home in the future, having hardwood flooring is going to increase its value. Not only will you get the benefits of having this durable flooring while you are living in the home, but you will also be able to get more money once you decide that you are ready to sell.
Overall, hardwood flooring makes sense as the smartest flooring investment that a homeowner can make.
What Are the Benefits of Natural Hardwood?
A classic option, you are going to love having natural hardwood flooring in your home. It is durable, able to withstand a lot more than most floor types. While natural hardwood can get dented and scratched, it takes a lot more force than it would if you were as rough with carpet or tile, for example.
Hardwood flooring is known to last for decades, and this is great for a homeowner who does not want to worry about constant home renovation projects. As long as you are taking proper care of the floor, you shouldn’t run into any problems.
Hardwood flooring can help your breathing. Carpet tends to hold onto dust spores and allergens more than natural hardwood does. Your air quality will be better when you have hardwood in your home, and you will be able to notice a difference in the way you breathe.
Aside from its practical benefits, hardwood flooring also looks good with plenty of different decor options. With a neutral base to start, you can decorate around your flooring to create a cohesive look for your home that best represents your family. Since the flooring is all-natural, you don’t have to worry about the color or look of it fading away.
If at some point you’d like to change its color, you can have the wood refinished.
What Are the Benefits of Engineered Hardwood?
The one main difference between engineered hardwood and natural is that the former actually costs less money. While it looks the same as the natural option, it costs less because it is made from less material.
The top layer is comprised of natural wood, while underneath is the part that is engineered. There is a wide array of options available for installation using glue, nails, flooring adhesive, or screws. Once the flooring has been installed, it looks just as great as natural hardwood.
A lot of engineered hardwood can be clicked into place, a great benefit for a quick installation. You don’t have to worry about the floor getting warped or cracked when there is a fluctuation in temperature. Engineered hardwood is designed to move with the weather.
It is also very easy to clean. Since only the top layer is crafted from natural wood, spills will not penetrate beyond the surface. You will easily be able to wipe any messes away without ruining your floor. You do have the option to refinish an engineered hardwood floor if you wish.
The top layer can be sanded away, giving you the freedom of a redesign. Much like natural hardwood, engineered hardwood also comes in many different style options for you to choose from.
