Engineered vs Solid Hardwood

Engineered vs. Solid Hardwood Flooring: Which One Is Right for Your Home?

Choosing between engineered and solid hardwood flooring can be a tough decision. Both options bring warmth, style, and long-term value—but they differ in structure, installation, and performance. Here’s a detailed breakdown to help you make the right choice for your home.

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What Is Solid Hardwood?

Solid hardwood is milled from a single piece of wood—commonly oak, maple, walnut, or hickory. It’s known for its natural beauty and the ability to be sanded and refinished many times.

• Pros:
  ✓ Timeless, natural look with rich grain
  ✓ Can last 100+ years
  ✓ Refinishable many times
• Cons:
  ✗ Prone to expansion/contraction from moisture
  ✗ Requires professional installation
  ✗ Not ideal for high-humidity areas

What Is Engineered Hardwood?

Engineered hardwood features a real wood veneer over multiple layers of plywood or HDF. It’s designed to offer the look of hardwood with better stability and moisture resistance.

• Pros:
  ✓ Resists warping and swelling
  ✓ Can be installed over concrete and radiant heat
  ✓ Multiple installation methods available
• Cons:
  ✗ Limited refinishing potential
  ✗ Wear layer thickness varies by brand

Best Applications for Each

Solid Hardwood

• Living rooms & hallways
• Low-humidity environments
• Homes with long-term ownership

Engineered Hardwood

• Basements, kitchens & bathrooms
• Homes with radiant heat or concrete subfloors
• Buyers seeking style and performance

Appearance & Value

Both engineered and solid hardwood floors enhance your home’s beauty and resale value. Once installed, even flooring pros have a hard time telling the difference. The right choice depends on your space, lifestyle, and future plans.

Premium Brands We Carry

At Touchdown Flooring NW, we offer a curated selection of top-tier hardwood brands known for craftsmanship, durability, and style:

• Mirage
• Kentwood
• Monarch Plank
• DuChâteau
• Somerset
• Rewards Flooring
• En Bois
• Colonial Collection
• Hallmark Floors
• Fabrica
• Prima

Need Help Deciding?

Our expert team is here to help you compare options, explore samples, and make a confident choice. We offer:

• Free in-home estimates
• Showroom visits in Issaquah
• Expert guidance tailored to your lifestyle and budget

Schedule your free estimate or visit our showroom today.

Want more flooring tips? Check out our full blog or read Best Flooring for Sammamish Homes for inspiration.