Hardwood floors are timeless—but choosing between engineered hardwood flooring and solid hardwood flooring can feel overwhelming. Both options offer natural beauty, long-term value, and warmth underfoot. But the one that best fits your lifestyle depends on how you live, where you live, and what you expect from your floors.
At Flooring Solutions By Design in Lindon, UT, we work with homeowners to find the right hardwood solution for their home and budget. Let’s break it down.
What is solid hardwood flooring?
Solid hardwood flooring is made from one piece of solid wood, typically ¾ inch thick. It’s milled from hardwood species like oak, maple, or hickory and can be sanded and refinished multiple times throughout its lifespan.
Pros of solid hardwood:
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Long lifespan (can last for decades)
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Can be refinished many times
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Adds strong resale value
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Rich, authentic wood feel and sound
Cons:
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Susceptible to moisture and temperature changes
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Typically more expensive than engineered options
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Not ideal for below-grade spaces or high-humidity rooms
This flooring is best for homeowners who want a floor that can age gracefully over generations and don’t mind the maintenance that comes with real wood.
What is engineered hardwood flooring?
Engineered hardwood flooring features a real wood veneer on top, supported by multiple layers of plywood or high-density fiberboard beneath. This layered structure gives it enhanced stability, making it less likely to expand or contract due to moisture or temperature swings.
Pros of engineered hardwood:
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Greater resistance to humidity and temperature changes
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Can be installed over concrete or radiant heating systems
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Typically easier and faster to install (including floating or glue-down options)
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More budget-friendly in many cases
Cons:
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Limited number of times it can be refinished (depends on veneer thickness)
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Slightly less natural “feel” underfoot compared to solid wood
This flooring is ideal for busy households, finished basements, and Utah homes with fluctuating indoor climate conditions.
Lifestyle considerations: Which hardwood fits you best?
When choosing between solid hardwood flooring and engineered hardwood flooring, it helps to ask yourself the following:
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Do you have kids or pets? Engineered hardwood might be a better pick for active families, especially in rooms where spills or rough play happen often.
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Is moisture a concern? Bathrooms, kitchens, and basements are better suited for engineered hardwood due to its moisture resistance.
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Are you remodeling on a timeline or budget? Engineered options install faster and often cost less, making them perfect for faster turnarounds.
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Do you value long-term refinishing potential? If you want a floor you can refinish over and over, solid hardwood wins in the longevity department.
Still unsure? Our design team can walk you through samples of both options so you can see, touch, and compare in person.
Trust your local flooring experts in Lindon, UT
Whether you lean toward the strength of solid hardwood flooring or the versatility of engineered hardwood flooring, we’re here to guide you every step of the way. At Flooring Solutions By Design, we believe the best flooring isn’t just beautiful—it fits your lifestyle, your needs, and your future.
Visit our Lindon showroom today and explore a curated selection of hardwood styles, species, and finishes. We’ll help you choose flooring that works just as hard as you do.
