Hardwood vs. Engineered Flooring: Properties, Differences, and Costs

Deciding between hardwood and engineered flooring is an important choice for any homeowner. Both options offer unique benefits, aesthetic appeal, and performance features. By understanding their characteristics, differences, and costs, you can make an informed decision that suits your needs.

What is Hardwood Flooring?

Hardwood flooring is crafted from solid wood planks, often made from popular timber species like oak, maple, walnut, or cherry. It has a range of qualities that make it a popular choice for both traditional and modern interiors.

Hardwood is highly durable and can last for decades with proper care. Its natural grain and rich tones provide a classic, timeless look. One of its major advantages is that it can be sanded and refinished multiple times, keeping it fresh and well-maintained over the years. However, hardwood is sensitive to moisture and can expand or contract with changes in humidity, making it better suited to areas with stable environmental conditions.

What is Engineered Flooring?

Engineered wood flooring is made by layering a real wood veneer on top of a plywood or high-density fibreboard base. This construction gives it distinct advantages.

It is more stable than solid wood, making it less likely to warp or buckle in response to changes in temperature or humidity. It is also more versatile, suitable for installation in basements or over underfloor heating systems. However, the thinner veneer layer means it can only be sanded and refinished once or twice during its lifespan. Engineered flooring is also considered more eco-friendly since it uses less solid wood compared to traditional hardwood.

Key Differences Between Hardwood and Engineered Flooring

Hardwood is made entirely of solid wood, while engineered flooring consists of a wood veneer over a layered core. Hardwood is extremely durable and long-lasting, whereas engineered wood has a slightly shorter lifespan. Hardwood is more prone to moisture damage, while engineered wood is more resistant to changes in humidity. Hardwood can be refinished multiple times, whereas engineered wood can only be refinished once or twice. Hardwood typically requires professional installation, while engineered flooring is easier to install and often suitable for DIY projects. Finally, hardwood is generally more expensive than engineered flooring, though both have a range of options to fit different budgets.

Cost Comparison

Hardwood flooring prices typically range from £50 to £100 per square metre, with professional installation adding another £30 to £60 per square metre. High-end options, such as exotic hardwoods, can exceed £150 per square metre.

Engineered flooring is usually more affordable, costing between £30 and £70 per square metre, with installation adding another £20 to £50 per square metre. Premium engineered options can come close to the price of hardwood but are still generally less expensive.

While engineered flooring has a lower upfront cost, hardwood often provides better value in the long term due to its longevity and the ability to refinish it multiple times.

Which Should You Choose?

Hardwood is a great option if you are looking for a natural, long-lasting choice and the ability to sand and refinish the surface over time. It works best in rooms with stable temperatures and low humidity.

Engineered flooring is ideal if you need a cost-effective solution or if you are installing flooring in a space with underfloor heating or higher moisture levels, such as a basement or kitchen.

Both hardwood and engineered wood offer excellent quality and style. Your decision will depend on your budget, the room’s purpose, and the conditions it will face. Regardless of which you choose, both options add a touch of sophistication to any home.