Difference Between Hardwood and Engineered

Solid hardwood flooring is the real deal. Three-quarters of an inch of natural wood beneath your feet that can be refinished multiple times and last for 100 years or more. Unlike engineered hardwood flooring or laminates, solid hardwood is not made of any recycled materials or created by pressing multiple layers together.

You will pay more for this premium product, but you will enjoy the warmth, beauty, status, and quality for years to come. Generally speaking, solid hardwood flooring is more expensive than engineered. But, depending upon the finish and species, engineered flooring’s price can rival solid hardwood.

Because solid hardwood should not be laid over a concrete subfloor, it is not recommended for basement installations.  Engineered hardwood is our recommendation for basements and high-humidity environments, where solid wood planks can absorb moisture and “cup” or warp, leaving a very unpleasant look and uneven walking surface.

At three-quarters of an inch thick, solid hardwood can be sanded and refinished many times before having to be replaced. Engineered hardwood, on the other hand, is not intended to be sanded and refinished. Only the most expensive engineered hardwood flooring, which may have a top layer that is as much as 9/16” thick, can be sanded at all. But, even then, we don’t recommend it.

The bottom line is that your choice between solid and engineered hardwood flooring will be dictated by your budget and application.