Solid Wood Flooring vs Engineered Wood Flooring  

Last Updated on February 22, 2024 by Nasir Hanif

  
When it comes to flooring, you’ll find no shortage of options. From different materials, colours and patterns to varying levels of durability and longevity, there’s a lot to choose between. Wood flooring, however, is a favourite due to its beauty and timelessness.   

Solid wood flooring and engineered wood flooring are popular choices. Each has their own advantages, disadvantages and characteristics, making them another thing to choose between.  

What’s the Difference?  

Engineered wood flooring is composed of multiple layers of high-density fibreboard (HDF), plywood or softwood with a solid oak veneer on top. However, each plank of solid wood flooring is made from a single piece of natural wood.  

Both have similar appearances, although there are fewer colours and styles for engineered wood.  

Durability  

When exposed to a lot of moisture or too little moisture, solid wood flooring can swell or shrink, which can cause issues and damage the flooring. This isn’t always a problem though as it’s a natural occurrence with wood. Aside from the warping, solid wood flooring is a durable and strong floor that can handle a lot. With the potential to last a lifetime or more, solid wood flooring is an excellent choice for active homes.  

Engineered wooden flooring doesn’t face the same warping problems. This is because it was designed to resist changes in humidity, making it suitable for areas such as kitchens and is compatible with underfloor heating.     

Cost    

When it comes to cost, wooden flooring is often a more expensive choice.   

Solid wood flooring is generally the more costly of the two due to the amount of wood used. Engineered wood flooring is typically regarded as the more budget-friendly option, but that isn’t to say it’s cheap. 

Installation   

Installing solid wood flooring is probably a job for professionals. This is because it needs to be nailed down and any mistakes could leave gaps in your floor. This then adds more expenses to the pricey floor.  

Engineered wood flooring, on the other hand, is easier to install and can be done as a DIY project. It can be glued, stapled or floated.  

Cleaning and Maintenance  

Solid wood is simple to clean. Just a sweep or vacuum with do the job. It’s best to avoid mopping the floors as water can be damaging.  

In terms of maintenance, solid wood flooring can be sanded down and refinished multiple times over its life. Giving you the appearance of a brand-new floor!  

Engineered wood flooring is very similar. It only needs a sweep or vacuum to keep it clean. It’s also best to avoid using water on the wood.  

In comparison, engineered wood doesn’t have a thick enough veneer to be sanded and refinished over time. Typically, it can only be done a couple of times.   

Pros and Cons of Wood Flooring Options

Wood flooring remains a timeless choice for many homeowners, exuding elegance and warmth in any space. However, the decision between solid wood and engineered wood flooring can be daunting. Understanding the disparities between these options is crucial in making an informed choice for your home. Let’s delve into the pros and cons of each to guide you towards the perfect flooring solution for your needs.