When it comes to elevating your home with timeless elegance and long-term value, hardwood flooring is a top-tier choice. But today’s homeowners are faced with a growing dilemma: should you go with solid hardwood or engineered hardwood?
Both options have unique advantages, and the decision often comes down to your lifestyle, budget, and the specific room you’re remodeling. In this guide, we’ll break down the key differences, pros and cons, and real-world considerations so you can choose the perfect floor for your home.
What is solid hardwood flooring?
Solid hardwood is exactly what it sounds like: planks made from a single, solid piece of natural wood, typically 3/4″ thick. Popular species include oak, maple, walnut, and cherry.
Why homeowners love it:
- 100% natural
- Can be sanded and refinished multiple times
- Increases property value
- Offers a rich, authentic appearance
However, it’s not without its downsides. Solid hardwood can be more sensitive to humidity and temperature fluctuations, which makes it a better fit for upper-level rooms rather than basements or bathrooms.
What is engineered hardwood flooring?
Engineered hardwood is made from multiple layers of wood, with a real hardwood veneer on top and high-density fiberboard (HDF) or plywood underneath. This layered structure gives it enhanced stability.
Why it’s a modern favorite:
- Resists warping due to moisture or temperature changes;
- Can often be installed over concrete or radiant heat systems;
- Comes in a wide range of styles and finishes;
- Usually more affordable than solid hardwood.
One limitation: While many engineered hardwood floors can be refinished once, they typically can’t be refinished multiple times like solid wood.
Appearance: can you tell the difference?
From the surface, both types look nearly identical. Engineered hardwood is topped with real wood, so it offers the same luxurious finish. However, solid hardwood has deeper grain definition and can evolve more beautifully over time as it develops a natural patina.
Verdict: Tie – both look stunning.
Durability and longevity
- Solid hardwood: with proper care, it can last 50+ years. It’s ideal for homeowners who plan to stay long-term or want to add significant resale value.
- Engineered hardwood: typically lasts 20–30 years. It’s still durable, but not quite as long-lasting as solid wood.
Verdict: Solid hardwood wins for longevity.
Moisture resistance
Here’s where engineered hardwood shines. Its cross-layered construction makes it less prone to expansion and contraction due to humidity. This makes it ideal for:
- Basements
- Kitchens
- Condos or apartments with radiant floor heating
Solid hardwood, on the other hand, should be avoided in high-moisture areas.
Verdict: Engineered hardwood wins.
Installation: which is easier?
Engineered hardwood is more versatile in installation. It can be glued, stapled, or even floated. Solid hardwood usually requires nail-down installation and a plywood subfloor.
Verdict: Engineered hardwood is easier and faster to install.
Cost comparison
Solid hardwood typically costs more, both in materials and installation. Engineered hardwood provides a more budget-friendly alternative without sacrificing much in terms of appearance.
Average costs per sq. ft. installed:
- Solid Hardwood: $8 – $15+
- Engineered Hardwood: $4 – $10
Verdict: Engineered hardwood wins on price.
Eco-Friendliness
Engineered hardwood uses less hardwood overall and can be made from faster-growing wood species. It can be a more sustainable option if sourced responsibly.
Verdict: Engineered hardwood (when eco-certified) can be the greener choice.
Which should you choose?
Choose Solid Hardwood if you:
- Want a floor that lasts a lifetime;
- Plan to sand and refinish over the years;
- Prefer a classic, premium material.
Choose Engineered Hardwood if you:
- Need a moisture-resistant option;
- Want a stylish floor at a lower price;
- Are installed in a basement, condo, or over radiant heating.
The right floor for your lifestyle
Ultimately, both types of flooring bring beauty, value, and comfort to your home. Your decision should reflect your daily habits, room usage, and budget.
At MAR Flooring, we’re here to help you make the right call. Whether you go with the timeless charm of solid hardwood or the modern versatility of engineered hardwood, we’ll guide you through every step—from selection to flawless installation.
Schedule your free consultation today and let’s build something beautiful together.