Solid vs. Engineered Wood Flooring: 8 Essential Tips for the Right Choice

Choosing between solid and engineered wood flooring is one of the most common questions I receive. So, I've decided to tackle it once and for all. Below, I’ll break down the key differences and share eight essential tips to help you make an informed decision.

Understanding the Types

Solid Wood Flooring: As the name suggests, this type is made from solid wood, regardless of species or grade.

Engineered Wood Flooring: This flooring features cleverly constructed core boards composed of bonded plywood layers, topped with a layer of solid wood, mimicking the appearance of solid wood flooring.

An important point to clarify is that engineered wood flooring is NOT the same as laminate flooring, which consists of synthetic layers simulating wood with a photographic design bonded through a lamination process.

1. Sub-floor and Moisture Levels

If you're planning a new wood floor, it's essential to measure the sub-floor moisture levels. Ideally, moisture levels should not exceed 2-3%. Take multiple readings across the floor to ensure accuracy. For borderline moisture levels, engineered wood is a safer option as it, along with a suitable membrane or underlay, enhances the longevity of your floor.

2. Bathrooms and Kitchens

Due to significant fluctuations in moisture levels and temperatures in areas like kitchens and bathrooms, engineered wood flooring is the best option. Its construction allows it to expand and contract slightly in response to changes in temperature and moisture, reducing the risk of damage. Solid wood, on the other hand, tends to expand and contract significantly, which can cause warping or cracking.

3. Under-floor Heating

If you’re considering under-floor heating, engineered wood flooring is your only viable option. Timber reacts to heat, often shrinking or warping under stress. By using a dimensionally stable core such as furniture-grade birch plywood, engineered wood flooring minimizes the risk of adverse movement. Although some solid products claim to be suitable, achieving the required installation conditions is nearly impossible in the UK climate.

4. High or Heavy Footfall

High footfall refers to heavy pedestrian traffic, while heavy footfall includes environments with additional impacts, such as wheelchair use or high heels.

If you anticipate heavy use, it’s important to choose a floor that can be re-sanded and refinished when needed. Solid wood can be sanded up to five or six times over its lifetime, while engineered wood with a thick top layer can typically handle two or three sandings. For high-traffic areas with stable environmental conditions, solid wood may be the best choice.

5. Budget

With a wide range of prices available for wood flooring, from budget-friendly options to premium selections, there isn’t a significant price difference between solid and engineered wood. However, engineered flooring often offers better value due to its durability and construction. Don’t let budget be your sole deciding factor—ensure your choice meets your requirements and offers long-term satisfaction.

All our engineered floors come with a 20-year structural warranty for residential projects and 10 years for commercial ones, even with under-floor heating.

6. Sustainability

When considering eco-friendliness, keep in mind that from a single oak log, we can produce three times as many engineered boards compared to solid boards of the same size. This is particularly relevant when using exotic woods. By opting for a thinner top layer, engineered wood minimizes the need for extensive harvesting, making it a more sustainable choice.

7. Installation

Solid wood must be glued during installation, whereas engineered wood can be installed as a floating floor, making it easier and more cost-effective to lay.

8. Lifecycle

The lifespan of engineered wood flooring ranges from 20 to 100 years, depending on the thickness of the top layer. High-quality engineered wood performs as well and lasts as long as solid wood. How long you want your flooring to last is a key factor to consider when making your choice.

All our engineered floors come with a 20-year structural warranty for residential projects and 10 years for commercial ones, even with under-floor heating.