Hardwood
Ability installs Solid, Engineered, and Laminate Flooring. A common question that we are asked, "What are the differences?" Below are the definitions, pictures, and tips to keep in mind about each one.
Solid Hardwood Flooring
Solid wood is just that - one piece that is milled from the lumber. It comes in a variety of widths, from 2 1/4" to 5" wide. It also comes in different thicknesses: 3/4" is standard, but you can also find "thin Profile" solid that is 5/16" thick.
Keep in Mind:
Moisture and extreme temperature changes can cause solid wood to shrink and expand, potentially causing gaps between boards during colder and dryer seasons.
5/16" thin profile solid wood can be installed directly over concrete; 3/4" cannot.
All solid hardwood can be sanded and refinished if needed (required every 15-20 years).
All urethane coated floors can be recoated as needed to renew the surface of the floor. This is more economical than sanding and refinishing.
Engineered Hardwood Flooring
Engineered wood is REAL wood, but instead of one solid piece, it consists of 3 to 10 thin layers of wood, called plies, that are assembled and glued in a cross-ply construction. The top layer of wood can range from 1/16" to 1/6" thick. Overall board thickness ranges from 1/4" to 3/4". Due to its multi-ply structure engineered wood is much more stable than solid wood and is less susceptible to shrinking and expanding with changes in temperatures and humidity.
Keep in Mind:
- Engineered wood can be installed directly over concrete and can also be installed below ground level.
- Engineered wood with a top layer thinner than 1/10" cannot be refinished; however, it can be recoated to renew the surface of the floor.
Laminate Flooring
Laminate flooring contains NO actual wood. Laminate is pressed particle board with a photograph of wood applied to the surface.
