Hardwood floors have been around for a long time, and even when their popularity fades for a while, it always returns. Because people enjoy hardwood floors San Jose, and they realize that they will never really go out of style they are conscientious of the type of hardwood floor to install in their home. The main dilemma seems to be whether to put in solid wood floors or engineered wood floors.

It's All Real Wood

Whether a floor is made from solid wood or engineered wood it is still a wood floor, and will need to be taken care of once it is in the home. The difference is that solid wood comes from a single source, and has that "right off the tree" appeal (plus staining and any other treatments it's undergone). Engineered wood is assembled from several thinner pieces of wood. These are glued together in order to create flooring planks that look more like solid wood. Both types of wood have their place. The "better" option depends upon what the home owner needs.

Solid Wood

For some people installing hardwood floors in San Jose, solid wood is the only way to go. When looking at the floor close up, it looks the most authentic and in many ways it is very durable. It can be sanded multiple times and refinished to undo wear and tear or reflect a change in taste. Resell value is also good.

But there are some limits to solid wood floors as well. These hardwood floors in San Jose are vulnerable to moisture. They will look great in a main level living room or an upstairs bedroom. Installing in higher humidity places of the house such as basements, bathrooms, and kitchen is not recommended.

Engineered Wood

Those who want the same hardwood floors throughout their home will probably want to go with engineered wood rather than solid wood. Because it is made from layers of wood, it is not easily damaged by humidity and moisture, so it can be installed in the basement or even the bathroom if the home owner desires.

Generally, engineered wood floors are not as thick as solid wood floors, so they can't be sanded as much as hardwood floors. Those who anticipate wanting to sand their floor should ask for flooring that has the thickest top layer possible. Because each layer is thin, the floor will also be more vulnerable to chipping.

It is also not entirely oblivious to moisture, so basement, kitchen, or bathroom installations often require some extra precautions. Buying from a retailer that knows about the benefits and limitations of engineered wood will help educate the homeowner on any necessary precautions or maintenance methods required for a long lasting, beautiful floor.