Difference between Solid Hardwood And Engineered Hardwood Flooring

With so many beautiful and durable hardwood floor options, it’s very hard to make decision. This article listed the pros and cons of solid hardwood and engineered hardwood. And you will know which is best for you.

The structure of Solid hardwood is simple. Constructed from one solid piece of 100% hardwood, it’s known for its durability, authenticity and timelessness.

Engineered hardwood is made of layers with 100% natural wood on top, wood on the bottom, and a highly stable core in the middle. The core consists of 5 to 7 layers of plywood, pressed together in a crisscrossed pattern.

Solid hardwood flooring is usually nailed down, which is more complicated.

For engineered hardwood flooring, there are nail down, glue down and floating. It’s quite convenient.

Solid hardwood generally comes at a higher price point than engineered hardwood flooring. Usually at 8$ to 15$ per square foot.

Engineered hardwood is usually less expensive until you get into premium collections, which are more comparable to solid hardwood floors. They are sold at 4$ to 7$.

Because of the difference in veneer thickness, the engineered wood flooring usually can be polished and refinished for 1 to 2 times. However, the solid wood flooring can be polished and refurbished for many times.

For solid hardwood, it is water resistant, but not waterproof. Do not use a wet mop.

Engineered hardwood is more water-resistant than solid hardwood and the wet mop is allowed.