One of the most common questions we ask when it comes to engineered hardwood in Toronto is “is it real hardwood or is it a laminate?” The answer is yes, there is a layer of real hardwood over the multi-ply core. Although the keyword is LAYER, only the top layer is actual hardwood. So how does it compare to solid wood? Engineered hardwood floors have improved greatly over the past 20 years, making them look like solid plank hardwood floors when installed professionally. In a broader comparison, the difference is seen in the side-by-side diagram below. Solid wood is perfectly fine, a solid plank of hardwood is usually 3/4” thick. Compared to engineered hardwood which is still typically 3/4” thick, but only the top layer is real wood.

Other than that broad comparison, the direct answer to this question is no, as not all engineered hardwoods are created equal. The layer of solid wood may be so thin (.6 mm or less) that it can never be sanded and refinished, but even thicker layers (2 mm to 6 mm) of hardwood may be thick enough to sand and sometimes it can be refined many times.

These are both examples of engineered hardwood flooring, yet notice the difference in both the thickness of the layer of solid hardwood and the thickness of the multi-ply core. Again, not all engineered lumber is created equal. We recommend that you visit our showroom if you are interested in the cost savings of engineered wood so that we can show you all the different options. It’s important to be educated when you choose any hardwood flooring. Let us answer all of your questions so you can choose the right hardwood flooring you’ll love for years to come.

Laminate Flooring

Laminate flooring in Toronto gives you the look and feels of exotic hardwood without impacting exotic or endangered species. Laminate flooring is one of the best cost options as compared to any other flooring in the market. Laminate flooring will save you money in the long run because it won’t need to be replaced for years. It’s less than half the price of solid wood flooring and cheaper than carpet.

Wear-resistant and eco-friendly

Unlike wood, which can dent, laminate flooring is nearly impervious to dents and scratches. Unlike other flooring such as carpet, marble, or solid wood, laminate flooring is fade resistant to sunlight. Laminate flooring gets its amazing durability from its incredibly wear-resistant melamine plastic wear layer. This layer is used for the top surface of laminate flooring which greatly improves its durability. The “wear layer” also protects the photographic layer below. Floor Depot offers a very generous 10+ year warranty on the wear layer.