If you had to guess what the most sought-after natural material in the home was, what would you guess? Stone? Leather? Well, if it were up to us, we’d guess wood! Wood is a natural material utilized in so many aspects of the home. For one, it’s the foundation that builds the frame and structure of your home, but wood is also a beautiful way of adding a natural element to your interior design, specifically speaking, the flooring. While wood is wood, there are other types of “wood” such as engineered or a look-a-like tile that can also be utilized to create the same look like natural wood. Curious to learn more? Continue reading below!

Solid Wood Flooring

One of the most sought-after types of flooring is a solid wood floor. A solid wood floor means the planks are made of wood throughout the plank. Being that it is solid, it is mounted by being nailed or glued to the floor. Keep in mind, solid wood flooring is a living material so contracting and expanding is something that comes with the territory – and is something that should be kept in mind. When it comes to price, a solid wood floor will most likely be the most expensive (also depends on wood species and quality). However, a solid wood floor will provide warmth and beauty to any home!

Engineered Wood Flooring

An engineered wood flooring is technically all wood, but it’s made out of layers with a plywood core and a thin hardwood veneer on top. While engineered wood tends to be less expensive than solid wood, it also comes with some added benefits. With it not being a “solid” wood throughout, the contractions and expansions are less likely. And honestly, its oftentimes difficult to tell the difference between solid wood and hardwood. If kids and pets are in your household, we recommend going the engineered wood flooring route for added durability. Slab foundation? Engineered wood is preferred over solid, traditional hardwoods.

Tile “Wood” Flooring

Now, for the last type of “wood” flooring which is actually not wood at all! In recent years, tile manufacturers have developed tile made to look exactly like wood. Some are even textures to feel like wood which is really fun and exciting. From a design standpoint, we would just suggest not running a “wood” tile right next to another wood flooring – they may look strange side by side. A couple of other things to consider is tile will be the only “wood” that can tolerate water spills, but if you crack a tile – it may be hard to fix without cracking the ones around it. Pricewise, tile will in most cases be the least expensive option, but remember that a great tile installer may have additional associated costs. Tile is a wonderful and durable option giving a nice wood look!

To learn more about wood, check out a fan favorite cabinetry topic, What “Wood” You Choose?