What’s the Difference? Engineered Hardwood vs. Solid Hardwood Flooring

Although once viewed as the only type of authentic wood flooring, solid hardwood flooring now has a stiff competitor: engineered hardwood. Here’s what to keep in mind when considering engineered hardwood vs hardwood flooring for your home or business.

Cost

The cost involved is normally one of the biggest factors that homeowners consider during a renovation. And a flooring project is no different! When it comes to engineered hardwood vs hardwood flooring, the cost varies widely depending on the wood variety, width, thickness and finish.

Both engineered hardwood and hardwood flooring have costs ranging from $3 – 18 per board, with the harder, wider, thicker and more durable options costing more.

Installation

Labour costs are what truly set these two types of flooring apart. Unless you purchase pre-finished boards (which are more expensive), solid hardwood flooring requires professional installation.

Unlike hardwood flooring, engineered hardwood can be easily installed yourself using nailed, stapled, glued or floating methods. The ability to DIY engineered hardwood makes this flooring type an attractive option for many budget-conscious homeowners.

Material Composition

Completely composed of authentic hardwood, solid hardwood thickness is typically available in ¾-inch widths. The standard plank width ranges in size from 5-inches to 11-inches wide.

In engineered wood flooring’s composition, a base of high-quality plywood lays on top of a thin slice of hardwood. Standard plank sizes start at 5-inches wide, with thicknesses ranging from 3/8-inch to ½-inch.

Durability

With proper maintenance and care, both engineered hardwood and solid hardwood flooring can last for many years.

When it comes time for your floors to be refreshed, engineered wood can only be sanded once or twice before the thin upper layer is removed. Years of sanding is needed before solid hardwood becomes too thin and requires replacing.

Unlike hardwood, engineered hardwood does not expand or contract and is more moisture and temperature resistant.

Resale

Planning on selling? Real estate marketing materials can list engineered wood floors as real wood, an attractive feature for buyers. The resale value for both types of wood is similar.

Let Us Help You Decide

Is it time to finally redo the flooring in your home or at your business? If so, we can help!

Our flooring store in the Greater Toronto Area offers quality flooring products and services. Whether you want more information on engineered hardwood and solid hardwood flooring or are interested in exploring other flooring options, our flooring experts can help.