Apr 16, 2018 | Flooring America
If you’re in the market for new hardwood floors, you might face the decision of solid hardwood vs. engineered hardwood. Like any flooring product, both have their pros and cons, but when it comes to matters of the home, these will be specific to each individual household as you take into account budget, lifestyle, and needs.
Hardwood floors are a big investment, so it’s important to factor in the possibility that over time, your hardwood might experience gaps in between the planks.
Gaps in hardwood floors are a common occurrence over the course of a wood’s life. As the weather and seasons change, hardwood is susceptible to expanding and contracting from heat, causing gaps. If your floors have been exposed to water-damage, boards are more likely to form gaps in between the planks as the wood shrinks when it has dried out.
Hardwood floors in the home are sought out by many homeowners, but to combat the possibility of gaps developing in the floor, engineered hardwood is a great alternative. This type of flooring can reduce gaps between planks, allowing the layers of plywood to shift and move more easily when adjusting to humidity changes.
If you decide to have hardwood floors installed, it is important to have your installer perform a humidity level test and to acclimate the hardwood to your home. This will be incredibly important if you live in a humid area, as it can cause warping, bowing, splitting, and gaps. By measuring your home’s humidity levels, your installer will be able to recommend the best floor for your home. Your hardwood will also have to acclimate to your home’s humidity and temperature, which means that your new flooring has to rest inside your home for up to a week and a half before it can be installed.
For more information on our beautiful and reliable hardwood selection, visit our hardwood flooring page!
