Plus: the pros and cons of each

Engineered hardwood is also real wood – however, it’s made of various layers perpendicularly fused together. The top, and thickest, layer is solid hardwood. Underneath that layer of solid wood are multiple layers of plywood that are compacted to provide a dense, stable core. The bottommost layer is typically a thin piece of solid wood for durability.

Most engineered hardwood is factory-finished with many different surface effects available. Engineered hardwood is rarely sold in its raw state. 

As you can see, both are real hardwood. When installed properly, both types of flooring can be beautiful and impressive. 



But they are not created equal in all situations. Let’s break down the different aspects, point by point.

• Stability –

Solid hardwood is extremely durable. So is engineered hardwood. However, solid hardwood is more susceptible to high humidity and moisture, which can make it warp or swell over time. On the other hand, the layered, plywood-like construction of the engineered wood increase its density, making it less likely to shift or erode.

Basements? Engineered hardwood. House near the sea? Engineered hardwood. Installation over an in-floor heating system? Engineered hardwood.

• Refinishing –

Let’s say your floor gets scratched, and you want to have it sanded down and re-stained. Or maybe you are just tired of your cherry-red floor and want a lighter, airier color for your living room. With solid hardwood, that’s no problem at all. Because solid hardwood is comprised of one thick slab of wood, it can be sanded down numerous times without negatively affecting the core.

But if you have engineered hardwood, think about your decision carefully. You can only sand down engineered wood a couple of times before the top layer of solid wood is gone and you’re left with only the layers of plywood underneath.

Yes, you read that right. Solid hardwood can be refinished many times. Engineered hardwood? Three times -- if you’re lucky.

• Cost –

Let’s talk money. Generally, solid hardwood will be more expensive than engineered. However, this can vary greatly, depending on the quality of the engineered hardwood that you choose. A premium engineered wood floor, with a unique design or thicker top layer, can be just as costly as its solid counterpart.

• Species –

Most solid hardwood planks are available in oak, maple, pine, and hickory. These species are durable, ranking high on the “hardness” scale, and very resistant to wear and tear.

Engineered hardwood, on the other hand, comes in many different species, such as more exotic or softer woods that are then stabilized with the requisite layers of plywood compacted underneath. Additionally, engineered hardwood offers almost limitless possibilities, such as specialty-size planks, unique finishes, and unusual textures.

And there you have it. Now you know that there’s no need to turn up your nose at engineered hardwood. Now you know that if you’ll want to re-stain your floor multiple times because you like to follow trends, your best bet is solid hardwood. Now you’re an educated consumer.

You may be wondering, What do you prefer?

The answer is simple. At Paragon Flooring, we like the option that best suits our clients’ needs. For example, if you’re looking for a hardwood floor for your lake house, we’ll do everything we can to talk you out of a solid hardwood floor that will shift and warp. We’d recommend the best engineered floor that fits your lifestyle, budget, and aesthetic.

We don’t have personal preferences, as every circumstance is different. And we tailor our expert guidance to the specifics of each situation.

Looking to purchase a new floor for your home?

We’ll be happy to help. Solid wood or engineered wood, we do it all. Visit us in our Jackson showroom today, email us, or give us a call, and we’ll advise you on the choice that makes the most sense for you.