Solid vs engineered hardwood timber flooring. Which one is right for you?

Engineered oak flooring stacked prior to installation

Solid hardwood hardwood flooring and engineered hardwood flooring are both popular choices for homeowners seeking to add warmth and elegance to their home. However, there are some significant distinctions between the two types of flooring that should be considered before deciding which to install.

Solid hardwood flooring is constructed entirely of natural wood and is available in a range of species, including oak, maple, rimu and tawa. It is generally 19 mm thick and may be sanded and refinished several times to remove scratches and dings and restore its original beauty. One of the most significant advantages of solid hardwood flooring is that it can last for decades with proper maintenance and care.

Pros of solid hardwood flooring:

• Durable and long-lasting

• Can be sanded and refinished multiple times

• Adds warmth and elegance to a home

• Increases the value of a property

Cons of solid hardwood flooring:

• Can be expensive

• Can be damaged by moisture and extreme temperatures

• Requires regular maintenance and care

Engineered hardwood flooring, on the other hand, is created by attaching several layers of cheaper wood or plywood to a layer of real hardwood. It is usually 12 mm to 20 mm thick and can be sanded and refinished, though not as frequently as solid hardwood flooring. Engineered hardwood flooring is more stable than solid hardwood flooring, which means it is less prone to expand, compress, or warp in reaction to variations in humidity and temperature, making it perfect for high-moisture areas such as kitchens, bathrooms, and basements.

Pros of engineered hardwood flooring:

• More stable than solid hardwood flooring

• Can be sanded and refinished

• Can be installed in areas where solid hardwood would not be suitable

• Can be more affordable than solid hardwood flooring

Cons of engineered hardwood flooring:

• Can be less durable than solid hardwood flooring

• Not as many sanding and refinishing opportunities

• May not increase the value of a property as much as solid hardwood flooring

To summarise, both solid hardwood flooring and engineered hardwood flooring offer advantages and disadvantages. Solid hardwood flooring is long-lasting and adds warmth and beauty to a home, but it is costly and requires routine upkeep. Engineered hardwood flooring is more stable and can be installed in spaces where solid hardwood would be inconvenient, but it may not be as durable or add as much value to a home as solid hardwood flooring. Finally, the decision between solid hardwood flooring and engineered hardwood flooring will be influenced by your personal preferences as well as the unique needs of your home.