Engineered wood vs hardwood Wood Flooring | Comprehensive Differences

Are you looking for a new flooring option for your home in the UK? If so, you may be considering hardwood or engineered wood flooring. Both options have their own advantages and disadvantages, so it’s important to weigh them carefully before deciding. Hardwood flooring is popular for many homeowners because it is durable, beautiful, and can be refinished multiple times. However, it can be expensive and difficult to install. Engineered wood flooring is a more affordable option that is easier to install, but it is not as durable as hardwood and cannot be refinished. Which type of flooring is right for you? What are the differences? Let’s find out!

But first, understand!

What is Hardwood Flooring?

Hardwood flooring is made from solid wood, meaning it is made from a single piece of wood. This is the reason that makes hardwood wood floors very durable and long-lasting. It can also be refinished multiple times, so it can be updated to match your changing tastes.

What is Engineered Wood Flooring?

The best type of flooring for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences. If you are looking for durable and long-lasting flooring that can be refinished multiple times, hardwood flooring is a good option. Engineered wood flooring is a good option if you want more stable and less expensive flooring. Here is a more detailed comparison of hardwood and engineered wood flooring

Cost

Hardwood flooring  is typically more expensive than engineered wood floors in the UK. This is because hardwood is a natural material that is more difficult to obtain and process. Whereas engineered flooring is made from a combination of wood and other materials, making engineered wood flooring less expensive.

Durability

Engineered wood flooring offers high durability due to its hardwood wear layer and protective finish, which resist scratches, stains, and fading, ensuring long-lasting beauty and strength. Engineered wood is made from multiple layers of material, which can make it more susceptible to damage.

Installation Difficulty

Hardwood flooring is more difficult to install than engineered wood floors. This is because hardwood requires a more precise installation process. Engineered wood flooring can be installed more easily, as it is made from interlocking panels.

Moisture resistance

Engineered wood flooring is more resistant to moisture than hardwood flooring. This is because engineered wood flooring is made from materials that are less likely to swell or warp when exposed to moisture. Hardwood flooring can be damaged by moisture, so it is important to take precautions if you install it in a humid environment.

Appearance

Hardwood flooring has a more natural appearance than engineered wood flooring. This is because hardwood is a natural material that comes in various colours and finishes. Engineered wood flooring is made from a combination of materials, which can give it a more uniform appearance.

Lifespan

Hardwood flooring can last for 50 years or more with proper care and maintenance. Engineered wood flooring can last for 20-30 years with proper care and maintenance.

Sizes

Hardwood flooring is available in various widths and lengths, typically ranging from 2-4 inches wide and 3-6 feet long. Engineered wood flooring is available in a wider range of widths and lengths, typically ranging from 2-6 inches wide and 3-12 feet long.

Water, Heat, and Environment

Hardwood flooring is a natural material susceptible to water and heat damage found easily in the UK. It is important to take precautions to protect ambience hardwood flooring from moisture, such as using a dehumidifier in humid climates and avoiding placing hot objects directly on the floor. Engineer wood flooring is made from a combination of materials that are more resistant to water and heat damage. However, taking precautions to protect flooring engineered wood from moisture is still important, such as using a dehumidifier in humid climates and avoiding placing hot objects directly on the floor.

Resale Value

Hardwood flooring typically has a higher resale value than the cost of engineered wood flooring. This is because hardwood flooring is a more durable and natural material. Engineer wood is a more affordable option than hardwood flooring, but it may not have the same resale value.

Cleaning

Engineered hardwood is made with a layer of hardwood on top of a layer of plywood or other material. The hardwood layer gives the flooring its appearance, while the plywood layer provides strength and stability. Engineered hardwood is a good option for homes with high traffic because it is more resistant to dents and scratches than solid hardwood. However, it is important to note that engineered hardwood cannot be refinished as often as solid hardwood, so it will eventually need to be replaced. Solid hardwood is made from a single piece of wood. It is a more durable option than engineered hardwood and can be refinished many times, making it a good choice for homes that want flooring that will last for many years. However, solid hardwood is more expensive than engineered hardwood and can be more difficult to install.

Comparison Table of Engineered Wood Flooring and Hardwood Flooring 

Factors	Hardwood Flooring	Engineered Wood Flooring
Cost	✔	❌
Durability	✔	❌
Installation Difficulty	❌	✔
Moisture resistance	❌	✔
Appearance	❌	✔
Lifespan	✔	❌
Sizes	❌	✔
Water, Heat, and Environment	❌	✔
Resale Value	✔	❌
Cleaning	❌	✔

Conclusion

When comparing hardwood and engineered wood flooring, you should consider factors such as cost, durability, installation difficulty, moisture resistance, appearance, lifespan, available sizes, water and heat resistance, resale value, and cleaning requirements.