The Difference Between Solid and Engineered Hardwood
Solid and engineered hardwood each have their own benefits in the home. Let’s break them down here to fit the best flooring to your lifestyle.
Solid Hardwood Flooring
[Solid hardwood flooring](https://www.flooranddecor.com/solid-hardwood-wood) is constructed of a single piece of timber, completely natural in its entire thickness. This type of flooring offers several benefits:
• Durability: Solid hardwood floors are known for longevity and can last decades if properly maintained. However, solid hardwood is naturally more sensitive to moisture. Wood expands and contracts with changes in humidity levels so it’s less suitable for basements and bathrooms.
• Refinishing Potential: Because they're made entirely of wood, solid hardwood floors can be sanded down and refinished multiple times over their lifespan.
• Natural Beauty: The unique grain patterns in each plank create a timeless look that many homeowners find appealing.
Engineered Hardwood Flooring
[Engineered hardwood](https://www.flooranddecor.com/engineered-hardwood-wood) flooring consists of multiple layers with a top layer made from natural wood bonded onto a core layer. This construction offers several benefits:
• Stability: Engineered hardwood isn’t prone to warping or buckling due to its multi-layered construction, making it suitable for installation over concrete subfloors and in areas with fluctuating humidity like basements and bathrooms. Keep in mind, because the top layer is relatively thin compared to solid wood floors, engineered hardwood can only be sanded down and refinished a limited number of times before reaching the core material.
• Style: Engineered hardwood’s structure allows for wider and longer planks for a popular largescale look.