Solid Hardwood vs Engineered Hardwood: Which Flooring Is Best for Your Alpharetta Home?
Solid hardwood and engineered hardwood floors both offer timeless style and real wood beauty, but they’re constructed differently. Solid hardwood flooring is made from a single piece of natural timber from top to bottom and is typically nailed to a wood subfloor. Engineered hardwood flooring features a genuine hardwood surface layered over a high-quality plywood core, making it more flexible in how and where it can be installed. Both options are available in popular species like oak, walnut, elm, and maple, as well as premium exotic woods for a more distinctive look. Once installed, solid and engineered hardwood floors look nearly identical and deliver the same warm, upscale finish.
Choosing the best option for your home usually comes down to performance, longevity, and budget. Here’s a quick comparison to help guide your decision:
- Stability: Engineered hardwood is more resistant to moisture and temperature changes, while solid hardwood can expand or warp in certain conditions.
- Budget: Solid hardwood is typically more expensive, while engineered hardwood offers a more cost-effective alternative without sacrificing appearance.
- Lifespan: Solid hardwood lasts longer and can be sanded and refinished many times; engineered hardwood has a more limited refinishing lifespan depending on its wear layer.
Both are excellent flooring choices—selecting the right one depends on your home’s structure, environment, and long-term goals.
