Solid Wood vs Engineered Hardwood: How Are They Different?

Solid Hardwood

Engineered Hardwood

Composition

Solid hardwood  is milled from a real hardwood species, making it the sole material used in the making of this type of flooring.

Engineered hardwood  is manufactured from three or more layers of high-density fiberboard (HDF) or medium-density fibreboard (MDF), and a real hardwood veneer top layer bonded together under heat and pressure. Waterproof engineered hardwood also has a Stone Plastic Composite core.

Strength

Solid hardwood  is noted for adding overall structural strength to the building in which it is installed. The degree to which this is true depends upon the species.

Engineered hardwood  is more suitable in high-moisture areas or in areas with frequent temperature changes than solid hardwood due to its “multiple-ply plank” construction and Stone Plastic Composite core.

Uniformity

Engineered hardwood  flooring shows the same character variations as  solid hardwood flooring. The surface of both are natural materials. Solid and engineered hardwood can be either clean and uniform or rustic with lots of character–it simply depends on the style and grade of material of your product.

Dimensional stability

Solid hardwood  is prone to expansion, warping, and cupping to a significant degree if exposed to humidity changes.

Engineered hardwood  is more dimensionally stable through multi-ply design. This allows greater resistance to humidity changes.

Resistance to Moisture & Heat

Solid hardwood   is unsuitable for applications at any location with increased moisture or high temperatures. For example, non-environmentally controlled or damp areas, such as below-grade installations, and over radiant heating systems.

Engineered hardwood   is the best choice when solid wood is not appropriate due to increased moisture or heat. It is more resistant to both compared to solid wood. There are waterproof options as well, so you can install it in bathrooms, kitchens and basements.

Resistance to Climate Change

Solid hardwood   generally expands and contracts more than engineered wood during climate changes, especially during extremes in heat, cold, and precipitation.

Engineered hardwood  does not warp or cup during climatic changes. It is more resistant to higher moisture levels than solid flooring. It is a better choice for installation over radiant heat sources, basements, and locations in rainy climates.