Solid Wood Floors vs Engineered Wood Floors: Which Is Best For Me and What is the Difference?

Whether you choose solid wood flooring or the engineered, you can be sure it will add the warmth and beauty to your home or apartment that you are seeking. Both are made from 100% real wood, however, there are differences in their construction, and the species of the wood, that you should be aware of before making your choice for your living room, kitchen, dining room, bath, bedroom, entryway, office space or basement.

Solid Hardwood Floors

• Made from solid wood. Each board is made from a single piece of hardwood (approximately ¾’ thick)
• Can be sanded down and refinished (multiple times during the life of the flooring, but only sand to the tongue and groove, and then it must be discarded).
• Expands and contracts in reaction to changes in moisture and temperature, therefore it is only recommended for rooms on the ground level or the upper floors.
• Can be glued, nailed or stapled to a wood subfloor; professional installation is recommended and can be challenging for an experienced DIYer.
• Takes longer to install than engineered wood.

Engineered Wood Floors

• Made of a core of hardwood or plywood with a layer of hardwood veneer affixed to the top surface.
• Can be less expensive than solid hardwood, depending on wood species.
• Typically, easier to install than hardwood.
• Versatile and resilient flooring – More resistant to everyday wear- and-tear, buckling or rippling than solid.
• More resistant to moisture and heat than solid.
• Can be installed in most areas of your home including finished basement or bathroom. Can be installed over concrete.
• Can be refinished (multiple times during the life of the flooring).

Now, all you must do is decide on the species of wood and from the myriad of colors to choose from! Our experienced staff can guide you through the process from start to finish. Our professional installers will work efficiently so you can enjoy your new floors quickly.

Stop by our Allentown showroom to see how the right floor can bring out the beauty in your room.