There are two different types of flooring available in Wheaton. Solid hardwood floors are cut from hardwood such as oak, maple or teak. Engineered hardwood floors are made from layers of wood products such as plywood, topped with a real hardwood veneer.
Engineered hardwood floors look identical to the real thing, but there are also advantages to consider. These are more durable, easier to install, easier to maintain and less costly. However, it must be said, real hardwood floors that are well cared for and maintained can outlast engineered hardwood floors, a fact that may offset the higher initial cost.
Appearance
Engineered wood floors are not “fake wood.” The primary difference lies in the fact that it uses less hardwood than does solid hardwood flooring. Hardwood flooring is made from a solid piece of wood. Engineered wood only has a veneer of real hardwood. Laminate floors, on the other hand, use a photo image top layer as the veneer. Engineered wood can be sanded and refinished and is available in many different types of wood from light oak to dark ebony.
Real hardwood and engineered hardwood floors are both extremely durable and can last for many years.
Durability
Water damage is a genuine concern for those who have wood floors installed in their home. Varnish and Polyurethane can help protect solid hardwood floors from surface water but has little effect in high-humidity areas. Engineered hardwood is the better option in areas that tend to have humid summers.
Long-term durability also depends on where in the home it will be installed. Any flooring below grade level will be subjected to high humidity year around. Real hardwood flooring should be installed on or above grade level. Engineered wood flooring, on the other hand, can be installed below grade where basement flooding is not a concern.
For a good selection of both real and engineered hardwood flooring, visit Best Buy Carpet and Granite in Wheaton. For further information and contact details, visit their website.
