Engineered Hardwood Floors vs Solid Hardwood: A Comparison Guide

Engineered Hardwood Floors are one of the best alternatives to solid hardwood. They are as inspiring to your styles and very durable as the latter, definitely giving great value to any property. Still, only when you know their main differences will you make an informed choice. In this guide, we break down the differences, benefits, and drawbacks of both so you can choose the right option for your lifestyle and needs.

What Are Engineered Hardwood Floors?

Construction: Engineered hardwood floors comprise several layers. The top, which is referred to as the "wear layer," comprises actual wood. Conversely, the core layers comprise plywood or HDF.

Durability: This multi-layered design makes engineered hardwood better at resisting moisture and, hence quite versatile in usage for many areas of the house, including basements and kitchens.

Installation: These flooring options can be installed on top of concrete or existing flooring, providing more options regarding types of installations available: glue-down, nail-down, or click-and-lock.

What is Solid Hardwood Flooring?

Structure: Wood that forms from top to bottom is considered solid hardwood. Such flooring is usually 3/4 inch in thickness, and it can be sanded and refinished hundreds of times within its life cycle.

Durable: Extremely hard and highly durable, the solid hardwood is still relatively a bit sensitive to moisture and other changes in humidity around the environment, causing it to expand or contract.

Installation: The solid hardwoods are mounted using the nail-down method, often over a wooden subfloor above the grade levels of a home.

Engineered Hardwood Floors vs Solid Hardwood

Appearance

Solid Hardwood: Even looks and feels the same, as well as grain patterns are the same with all the planks. Available in a very wide variety of wood species, including oak, maple, and cherry.

Engineered Hardwood: The look and feel of solid hardwood could be achieved but often somewhat different, as it consists of layers. Its top may comprise of exotic wood such as Brazilian walnut or teak which never comes in the form of solid wood.

Price

Solid Hardwood: It costs more than engineered hardwood, mainly because of the extensive production activity that incorporated the usage of higher quantities of solid wood.

Engineered Hardwood: Generally, more inexpensive as it uses less solid wood and can be manufactured more efficiently.

Life Expectancy

Solid Hardwood: It can last between 30 to 100 years. Its lifespan relies not only on its quality but also on proper maintenance. It can be refinished several times and will return to its original glory.

Engineered Hardwood: It can last for 20 to 40 years. It can be refinished one or two times depending on the thickness of the wear layer.

Sound

Solid Hardwood: More dense and thicker. This will give it a resonant and deeper sound. It will, even properly installed, sometimes produce creaking noises.

Engineered Hardwood : When walked on produces hollow sound. This might also be loud if installed as a floating floor. But this can be minimized with underlayments.

Care and Cleaning

Solid Hardwood: It should be frequently swept and vacuumed and needs refinish sometimes. Avoid too much water or steam cleaning engineered hardwood floors.

Engineered Hardwood: Sweeping, with occasional damp mopping is enough. Use a cleaner meant for cleaning engineered hardwood floors so that the finish of the product will not be removed.

Resale Value

Solid Hardwood: It has very high worth in the real estate market. They are considered as floorings that are of high end, thus raising the value of a house greatly.

Engineered Hardwood: It too gives value but not as much as the solid hardwood. Still, it's something which is an upgrade from laminate or vinyl flooring.

Which is Better: Engineered Hardwood Flooring or Solid Hardwood Flooring?

The installation area, budget, and many more personalized choices will decide on either engineered hardwood flooring or solid hardwood flooring. Here is a quick rundown to help make your decision:

Budget-Sensitive Buyers

Since engineered hardwood costs less, it is normally cheaper and even looks like real solid hardwood; therefore, it is an exact compromise when it comes to cost versus appearance.

Areas That Are Usually Moist

If in case it's kitchen, basement, or a bathroom, then engineered hardwood would be a better alternative because this material is moisture resistant.

Longevity and Value

If there's a chance of flooring that will last for everlong and increase the resale value of a homeowner then it should be solid hardwood.

Conclusion

Both engineered hardwood and solid hardwood flooring have their strengths and shortcomings. Whether you need and want mobility and convenience, then you would be right to choose engineered hardwood. Conversely, should it be that timeless beauty and durability you seek and are willing to pay for the premium price of the high-end flooring choice, then solid hardwood would be in your best interest.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q. Can engineered hardwood be installed in basements?

A. Yes, engineered hardwood is great for basements because it does not warp from moisture like solid hardwood does.

Q. How frequently do engineered hardwood floors require cleaning?

A. Sweep often and mop one time per week using a cleaner designed to clean engineered hardwood floors with a damp mop.

Q. Is engineered hardwood actually waterproof?

A. Although some engineered hardwood is sold as waterproof hardwood flooring, it is only water-resistant, not waterproof, and spills should be cleaned up immediately.

Q. Can solid hardwood be installed over concrete?

A. No, generally, solid hardwood is put over wooden subfloors, while engineered hardwood can be put over concrete.

Q. Which has better resale value: solid or engineered hardwood?

A. Higher resale value; will last longer and can be refinished several times.