Solid hardwood flooring is a Chicago building staple that is constructed using a single plank of wood throughout. However, engineered wood flooring in Chicago comes as a top veneer layer of standard hardwood that is adhered to a rigid piece of plywood or High-Density Fiberboard (HDF) core that serves as the base.
A solid hardwood floor installation in Chicago can usually be done using ¾ inch-thick strips measuring from 1½ to 2½ inches wide or in plank boards ranging in size between 4 and 8 inches wide.
Engineered wood flooring in Chicago measures between ½ inch and ⅜ of an inch in thickness. And because engineered wood is less prone to warping than solid hardwood, it comes in planks as wide as 12 inches or more.
Many of today’s hardwood flooring manufacturers now offer both styles of flooring, so you can always find what you’re looking for, especially with the help of Robert Flooring Services Inc.
Is Solid Hardwood Flooring Better Than Engineered Wood Flooring in Chicago?
In short, no. Both of these flooring solutions have their benefits and disadvantages. Engineered wood flooring is sometimes known as “fake wood flooring” but that would be inaccurate. There is nothing fake about engineered wood flooring in Chicago, it is simply a different type of hardwood flooring.
When looking for contemporary hardwood flooring in Chicago, Ash is a very popular option. This type of hardwood flooring features an excellent Janka rating (1320). And its light grains are perfect for modern design styles. It is known for looking great with all kinds of stains, so you can create the floor color that works best for you.
However, note that Ash trees are currently under attack by the destructive Emerald Ash Borer Beetle infestation. That means you may want to look at other hardwood flooring options in Chicago as an eco-friendly solution.
