Throughout the decade, more and more people began to show a preference for engineered hardwood flooring.
While the beauty of solid can't be denied, the engineered version appeals to those who also have a practical bent, as the construction makes it more stable and water-resistant.
While solid is one slab of wood all the way through, engineered consists of a top layer of genuine wood (from the forest), with at least three layers below that are combinations of wood and other materials.
Each layer is in a crosswise position, making the fibers run parallel to each other.
Solid shrinks and expands to adjust to the weather, so it needs to undergo an acclimation process before installation. It can also warp or cut when exposed to excess water.
Even though the acclimation process is simple, engineered hardwood customers do not need to concern themselves with it. There is better water-resistance so, while no flooring should be submerged in water, there is less chance for warping.