The Difference between Solid and Engineered Hardwood Flooring

What is the difference between Engineered and Solid Hardwood Flooring?

The above question is something we are frequently asked in the flooring industry and it is very important to know which to use before installing hardwood flooring in your home. Knowing the difference can save you a lot of headaches, time, money and energy. So let’s take a few minutes to find out exactly what the differences are.

Solid– A solid piece of hardwood is milled from a single ¾” piece of wood. Because it’s so thick it makes it very durable and can be sanded down and refinished several times in its lifetime regardless of how long it’s been since it was originally installed. The downside to being so thick is it is very sensitive to heat and moisture and can expand and contract when it comes into contact with either one. That being the case it is not recommended that solid hardwood be installed in basements, kitchens, bathrooms, laundry rooms or anything over a concrete slab. Solid wood needs to be laid over plywood, wood or OSB subfloor and is normally nailed down, the exception is that some that can be glued. Solid hardwood comes in several different widths and thicknesses and woods. Everything from Oak, Mahogany, Bamboo, to more exotic and expensive Brazilian Cherry, African Ipe, and much more.

Engineered– Engineered flooring is produced with 3-5 layers of hardwood. Each layer is stacked in a criss-cross fashion under heat and pressure. Because of the way it’s made it is less likely to be affected by heat and humidity (unlike solids) and can be installed anywhere in the home, including the basement and over a concrete slab and is recommended for homes that have moisture issues. Engineered hardwood is always prefinished, so it’s already sanded and sealed and is ready to be walked on right after installation. It can be refinished but recommendation is only 1-3 times in its lifetime. Engineered hardwood is completely real wood through and through, so please don’t confuse it with a laminate. Engineered, like Solid, can be found in several different sizes and types of wood like, Hickory, Oak, Bamboo and Maple just to name a few.