Which is better: solid board or parquet

Often many people have a need to choose between solid and parquet boards. This choice is very difficult, since even the most experienced cannot give a definite answer to the question posed. Both materials have unique properties that combine both pros and cons, which will be discussed in detail in this article.

What is a massive board, its pros and cons

Solid board is a covering made from solid wood. It is usually wider and larger than parquet. Large dimensions provide the opportunity to enjoy the natural texture of wood.

Typically, solid wood has high hardness, as it is made from solid wood. Often sold with a factory coating that protects it from moisture or mechanical damage. The coatings used are: varnish, oil, a mixture of oil and wax.

Pros:

• Eco-friendly material that is absolutely safe;
• Durability. Under normal conditions, solid wood flooring can last up to 70 years;
• Possibility of repeated repairs and recycling;
• Thermoregulation. Since wood retains heat well, the floors will not be cold;
• Attractive appearance. The natural pattern of wood can be very diverse and looks beautiful in any interior.

Minuses:

• The array is sensitive to changes in temperature and humidity.Because of this feature, it can deform and change size depending on the microclimate in the room. This is why it is recommended to humidify the air in winter;
• Expensive. Since the material is made of solid wood, its cost is quite high. Solid wood floors belong to the premium class.

What is parquet board, pros and cons

Parquet board consists of several layers, which vary depending on the type of coating. Basically the layers are arranged in the following order: wood, glue, varnish, fiberboard, tongue and groove, hardwood, varnish, etc.

Pros:

1. Easy installation process. In order to lay floors made of this material, you do not need a lot of additional materials, since when manufactured, the parquet board is almost ready for installation. Also, in order to lay floors, you do not need to have special knowledge and experience, since the material is quite easy to learn.
2. Environmentally friendly material is capable of providing thermoregulation, retaining heat even at low temperatures.

Minuses:

1. Low wear resistance and susceptibility to mechanical damage.
2. Sensitivity to changes in air humidity and temperature.
3. Limited number of restorations and material processing.

What's better

In order to choose the best material, you need to compare them according to several parameters.

1. Design, texture.

Both coatings have a natural wood texture that looks very harmonious in any environment. They are varnished and ready for installation. There is a draw in this category.

2. Laying.

Both coatings can be installed without sanding or scraping. However, the array may have an adhesive connection, which will complicate the installation process.Parquet boards often have a locking joint, which allows for floating installation.

Solid wood can change dimensions, so the solid wood must be firmly fixed during installation. This requires skill and knowledge and also takes more time. In this criterion, parquet boards win.

3. Restoration

The array can be processed an unlimited number of times, as well as subjected to any processing. Parquet boards cannot be re-processed, so the choice is up to the array.

4. Warm floor.

When laying on heated floors, it should be remembered that wood is extremely sensitive to changes in humidity and temperature. Therefore, underfloor heating can deform the material, which will render it unusable. Laying parquet boards on a floor with a heating system is allowed, so in this criterion the choice is parquet.

5. Price

Solid wood has a much higher cost, which is due to the high cost of the material. At the same time, parquet boards are quite cheap to produce and are more affordable, without losing their appearance, since it can be very difficult to distinguish two materials by eye. Therefore, in this criterion, victory remains with the parquet board.

Conclusion

Both coatings deserve attention and it is difficult to say categorically which material is better. The choice depends on the goals being pursued.

Solid wood is suitable if you need a durable floor that will last for many years. It is possible to provide a special indoor microclimate. In which the wood will feel “comfortable”.

Parquet boards are suitable for heated floors, even if installation is done independently. Another undeniable advantage of this material is its low price and availability.