Solid Wood vs. Engineered Wood Flooring: What’s the Difference?

Solid Wood vs. Engineered Wood Flooring

When it comes to choosing the perfect wood flooring, the most common question homeowners ask is:
“Should I go with solid hardwood or engineered wood?”
While both offer beauty and durability, they have distinct differences that can affect your choice depending on your space, lifestyle, and budget.

Here’s a detailed look at the key differences to help you make an informed decision.

Solid Wood Flooring

Made from a single piece of hardwood (like oak, maple, or walnut), solid wood planks are thick and can be sanded and refinished multiple times over their lifespan.

Engineered Wood Flooring

Composed of a top layer of real hardwood bonded over layers of high-quality plywood or fiberboard. This structure gives it extra stability and resistance to moisture.

Solid Wood:

Can expand or contract with humidity and temperature changes. Not recommended for basements or bathrooms.

Engineered Wood:

Much more stable due to its layered structure. Ideal for basements, condos, and areas with radiant heating or varying humidity.

Solid Wood:

Typically nailed or stapled down over a wood subfloor. Requires more installation time and is best left to professionals.

Engineered Wood:

Offers more flexibility — it can be nailed, glued, or even floated. Easier to install, even over concrete or existing flooring.

Solid Wood:

Can be sanded and refinished many times over decades, making it a long-term investment.

Engineered Wood:

Can usually be refinished once or twice depending on the top layer thickness — still very durable, but with some limitations.

Solid Wood:

Generally more expensive due to full hardwood construction and longer lifespan.

Engineered Wood:

More budget-friendly upfront while still offering the look and feel of real wood.

• Choose Solid Wood if you want a traditional, long-term investment in dry spaces like bedrooms, living rooms, or hallways.

• Choose Engineered Wood for moisture-prone areas, condos, basements, or if you want the look of hardwood with easier installation and lower cost.

At Planchers 3A, we help you choose what’s best for your home — with expert advice, high-quality materials, and professional installation.

Contact us today for a free consultation:
514-793-5641
www.planchers3a.ca