Key Takeaways
- Engineered and hardwood flooring look similar but differ in construction and performance.
- Engineered wood is more stable and better suited for areas with humidity or temperature changes.
- Solid hardwood can be refinished multiple times and may last longer over decades.
- Engineered wood often costs less and works well over concrete subfloors.
- Hardwood flooring is a strong long-term investment and can boost resale value.
- The best choice depends on your space, budget and lifestyle needs.
What is Engineered Wood?
Engineered wood flooring is built in layers. The top layer is real hardwood (called a veneer), while the layers underneath are typically made from plywood or high-density fiberboard. This layered construction gives engineered wood added stability, so it’s less likely to expand and contract with changes in humidity compared to solid hardwood. That makes it a popular choice for areas where temperature and moisture levels can fluctuate.
What is Hardwood Flooring?
Hardwood flooring is made from solid planks of a single wood species, like oak, maple, cherry, or walnut. Because it’s solid all the way through, it offers a classic look and long lifespan. With proper care, hardwood floors can last for decades, or even over 100 years, making them a strong long-term investment for many homeowners.
Difference Between Hardwood and Engineered Wood Floors
When comparing options, understanding the difference between hardwood and engineered wood floors comes down to how they’re built and how they perform in your home.
Material: Engineered wood has a real hardwood surface, but its core is made of layered materials like plywood. Solid hardwood, on the other hand, is made from a single piece of wood throughout.
Stability: Thanks to its layered design, engineered wood is more dimensionally stable. It handles changes in humidity better than solid hardwood, which can expand or contract as moisture levels rise and fall.
Moisture Resistance: Engineered wood is more resistant to moisture-related movement, making it a good option for spaces with occasional humidity. Some products are designed with enhanced water resistance. Solid hardwood is more sensitive to moisture and can develop issues like cupping or warping if exposed to excess water.
Refinishing: One of hardwood’s biggest advantages is that it can be sanded and refinished multiple times over its lifespan. Engineered wood can also be refinished, but how often depends on the thickness of the top veneer layer.
Which is Better: Engineered or Hardwood?
When choosing between engineered or hardwood, the best option really depends on where you’re installing it and how you use your space.
Choose Engineered Wood If You Have:
- Radiant heat systems: Many engineered wood products are compatible (just check manufacturer guidelines).
- Concrete subfloors: Engineered wood can be installed over concrete using floating or glue-down methods.
- Kitchens or powder rooms: It handles moderate moisture better than solid hardwood, though it’s still not recommended for full bathrooms.
- A tighter budget: Engineered wood is often more affordable while still delivering a real wood look.
- A long-term investment: Solid hardwood can last for generations with proper care.
- Refinishing flexibility: Ideal if you want the option to refresh your floors multiple times over the years.
- High-traffic durability: Hard species like oak and maple hold up well in busy areas like living rooms and hallways.
- Strong resale appeal: Hardwood flooring is often a selling point for future buyers.
Shopping for Hardwood vs. Engineered Wood Flooring
Both options have their strengths, and the right choice depends on your home and lifestyle. By understanding the difference between hardwood and engineered wood, you can feel confident picking a floor that looks great now and performs well over time. For all of your flooring needs, visit Lowes.com or stop into your local Lowe's store.
Hardwood Flooring vs. Engineered Flooring FAQs
What is the main difference between hardwood and engineered wood?
The main difference between hardwood and engineered wood is construction. Hardwood is made from solid wood throughout, while engineered wood has a real wood surface layered over a plywood or fiberboard core for added stability.
Can engineered wood flooring be refinished?
Yes, engineered wood flooring can be refinished, but the number of times depends on the thickness of the top veneer layer. Solid hardwood can typically be refinished more times.
Which is better for kitchens: engineered or hardwood?
Engineered wood is usually the better choice for kitchens because it handles moisture and humidity better than solid hardwood. However, spills should still be cleaned up quickly to prevent damage.
Is hardwood flooring worth the investment?
Hardwood flooring is often considered a long-term investment. It can last for decades, be refinished multiple times, and may increase your home’s resale value.