Modular Vs. Solid Hardwood

Posted on: 26 January 2017

Hardwood flooring is always a smart investment. It can work great in any room because it is stylish, durable and easy to maintain. It also works well with modern construction, as well as rustic styles. But, not all hardwood products are the same. They vary greatly when it comes to their build and price ranges. Modular and custom wood floors are the most popular. This article explains the main differences between these two types.

Modular Floors

Modular (aka engineered or locking) hardwood is probably the most popular product on the market. This is what you will usually see sold over the counter at most home improvement stores. It is often sold in individual packs that are specifically designed with the consumer in mind. They aren't too big or heavy, so you can usually buy and transport them to your property without him any heavy duty moving equipment or large trucks.

Most importantly, each plank is designed with a special tongue and groove. The tongue on one side basically snaps and locks into the groove of the next plank. Individual pieces do not need to be glued or screwed together. This means that laying your floor can be done with minimal tools. You will obviously need to secure them to the subfloor using glue unless you want a floating floor. A floating hardwood floor is one where the hardwood is not attached to the subfloor in any way. This is convenient if you plan on changing your floor soon and want a low-cost option. Another important design feature of most engineered floors is that they are not made out of one solid piece of hardwood. Instead, there are several thin layers of wood that are glued together. Only the top layer is made out of expensive hardwood.

Custom Wood Floors

When you invest in a custom wood floor, you need to let a professional, like Kindelin Builders Inc., handle the work. On a custom floor, the planks have flat edges. They are basically just made out of one piece of hardwood that is cut to size. The great thing about custom floors is that you can have more variety when it comes to the length and width of your planks. However, since each individual piece needs to be scribed, cut and glued together, the labor cost can be quite high. Basically, you should only invest in a custom floor if you have the budget for it and definitely want a solid hardwood product.

Modular floors are definitely more user-friendly and better for homeowners who plan on handling their own installation.

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