What's the difference between solid and engineered hardwood flooring?

There are two versions of wood floors, solid and engineered. The latter takes a significant share of the wood flooring industry; it appeals to people who want both beauty and practicality. Here is a brief description of the differences between solid and engineered wood, and feel free to come into our hardwood flooring company.

Do they look the same?


Yes. With either, you can have beautiful oak, hickory, maple, or whatever your species-of-choice is and with all the features that make wood floors so unique:  undertones, knots, grains, and swirls. In addition, you can have textured looks with both, whether you want a smooth surface or something wire-brushed or distressed.

The difference lies in the construction. While solid hardwood flooring is one thickness throughout, engineered is layered with a combination of genuine wood and a little resin. In addition, the layers are placed in a crosswise position, making the floor more stable and better able to handle water.

Engineered wood floors are:


1.  Less prone to warping. While neither should be placed in highly wet areas, engineered is less susceptible to challenges with moisture and humidity.

2.  Easier to install: Solid is always the traditional tongue and groove/nail down with subfloor restoration and repair sometimes also needed. Engineered can be glued, nailed, or installed as a floating floor where the pieces click together, mat, then hover over the subfloor without nails or glue. Any subfloor is acceptable as long as it's clean, dry, and level.

3.  Less expensive: This is most likely since installation is so fast and uncomplicated.

4.  Seen with wider planks: Solid’s floorboards can be narrower, but these tend to be wider and shorter.

5.  Always factory finished: While solid can be either factory or site finished, these are always pre-finished, possibly making them stronger. This uses aluminum oxide, a very strong substance that can only be used in a controlled atmosphere like a factory.

Hardwood flooring, with its rich, timeless beauty, makes a stunning visual. Whether your project is residential or commercial, the pros at All Surface Flooring will help you choose the right one for you. Come into our showroom for a free quote. We are located in Ballwin, MO, convenient to Chesterfield, Wildwood, Creve Coeur, and Fenton.