Thinking about upgrading your floors but not sure where to start? You’re not alone—engineered hardwood flooring is one of the most popular choices for Calgary homeowners, and for good reason. It offers the beauty of real wood, along with added durability and flexibility during installation.
At Deerfoot Carpet & Flooring, we help homeowners every day find the perfect engineered hardwood for their lifestyle and space.
But before you dive into your flooring project, there are a few key things you need to know before buying engineered hardwood flooring. Let’s walk through the essentials, including how it compares to solid hardwood, where it works best, and what to look out for.
What Is Engineered Hardwood Flooring?
Engineered hardwood is made up of multiple layers. The top layer is made of real hardwood, while the core layers are composed of high-density plywood or fiberboard. This layered structure makes engineered flooring more stable and less likely to expand or contract with changes in temperature and humidity, perfect for Calgary’s dry winters and fluctuating seasons.
That’s a big win compared to solid hardwood, which is made from a single piece of wood and can be more sensitive to environmental changes!
Solid vs. Engineered: What’s the Difference?
Wondering whether to choose solid or engineered hardwood? Here’s a quick breakdown:
- Moisture resistance – Engineered hardwood is more stable in humid or dry conditions. Great for basements or condos.
- Thickness – Solid hardwood is thicker overall, which means it can be sanded and refinished more times over its lifespan.
- Installation options – Engineered hardwood offers more flexibility. It can be nailed, glued, or floated—ideal if you’re going over concrete or radiant heat.
- Price – Engineered options are often more budget-friendly, especially when you factor in ease of installation.
Still want that “classic” hardwood feel underfoot? Solid hardwood may be the way to go. However, if you’re looking for something durable, flexible, and visually appealing, engineered hardwood is a smart choice.
Where Can You Use Engineered Hardwood?
Engineered hardwood is incredibly versatile, making it an excellent choice for nearly every room in your home. It works well in living rooms and bedrooms, offering a warm, natural look underfoot. It’s also a smart choice for kitchens and dining rooms where spills and foot traffic are common. Thanks to its layered construction, it performs better than solid wood in areas prone to moisture or temperature changes, such as basements and lower-level spaces.
If you’re thinking about upgrading, this is something you need to know before buying engineered hardwood flooring—it’s even suitable for condos or homes with radiant heating systems, making it a reliable and stylish flooring solution throughout your entire home.
What to Look for When Buying Engineered Hardwood
Before making a final decision, here are a few things to consider:
- Top layer thickness – The thicker the top layer, the more times it can be refinished. Aim for at least 2mm for long-term durability.
- Core construction – High-quality plywood cores provide better stability than cheaper fiberboard options.
- Finish – Look for UV-cured finishes or aluminum oxide coatings for better scratch and wear resistance.
- Warranty – A good product should come with a strong warranty—check both the structural and finish coverage.
Working with a reputable flooring supplier (like us!) helps ensure you get a product that matches your lifestyle, needs, and budget.
The most important thing you need to know before buying engineered hardwood flooring is that it’s designed to handle the city’s dry winters and shifting humidity levels better than traditional solid hardwood! That’s why if you love the look of hardwood but want something more practical for Calgary’s climate, engineered hardwood flooring is a smart investment. It combines beauty and performance, giving you the best of both worlds.
Our team at Deerfoot Carpet & Flooring is here to help you find the perfect floor for your home—no guesswork, no stress. Contact us today to learn more!
