What’s the Difference Between Engineered & Solid Timber Flooring

What’s the Difference Between Engineered & Solid Timber Flooring

When it comes to choosing flooring, there are a lot of options on the market. Two of the most common are solid timber flooring and engineered timber flooring. Each have their advantages and disadvantages, however understanding your project, the budget and the constraints, will help you make an informed decision about which flooring to choose.

In this blog we discuss the key differences and benefits when it comes to engineered timber flooring and solid timber flooring.

Solid Timber Flooring

Solid timber flooring is made from a single piece of timber. It is a raw product that has been used for generations, due to its durability, availability and sheer beauty. Although, there are many flooring products highly regarded, solid timber flooring is often noted as the superior product, and it is for the following reasons.

Why use solid timber flooring?

• Solid timber flooring is a versatile product that can be used for stairs and walls
• It can be laid with joist and bearers, over concrete using direct stick or over structural plywood
• It ages well and can last a lifetime
• Can be sanded and polished multiple times to rejuvenate the timber
• Greater range of timbers and limitless finishing options
• A range of visual grades available to give the home unique feel
• It feels solid and authentic underfoot
• It is less susceptible to termites
• Solid timber is easy to clean and maintain
• Will increase the value of the home
• It is an environmentally friendly option.

Solid timber provides a warmth and authenticity which is hard to replicate. Yet because it is a natural product it is affected by the moisture content in the environment causing it to expand and contract with seasonal changes. It is for this reason that solid timber floors need to be acclimatised to the home environment prior to laying the boards. If this is not done, it may result in gapping and cupping of the timber boards. A lot of solid timber floorboards are moisture tested prior to delivery and kiln dried so the moisture content is similar to the average equilibrium moisture content closest to the capital city it is destined for. Other disadvantages of solid timber flooring include the following.

Disadvantages of solid timber flooring

• It is a more expensive product
• Takes longer to install with a messy installation process
• Repair and replacement of boards may require a complete sand and polish of the boards
• Shorter and random sized boards available depending on the timber species selected
• Not all homes are suitable for solid timber flooring. 

Engineered Timber Flooring

Engineered timber flooring is consists of a thin 2-6mm solid timber veneer top layer glued to a central stable core with a plywood substrate. It achieves a similar appearance to that of solid timber flooring, yet with a much more affordable price tag. So, what are the key benefits of engineered flooring?

Why use engineered timber flooring?

• Engineered timber flooring is more affordable than solid timber
• It is quick and easy to install with a tongue and groove lock in system
• It can be installed using floating floor or direct stick methods
• It comes in a wide range of colours
• Has a pre-finished coating making it more wear-resistant than solid timber
• It is a stable timber product that will not expand and contract with the seasons.

Engineered timber flooring offers quick and easy installation with less mess, making it a more appealing option for those renovating. Although engineered timber flooring is much more adaptable than solid timber flooring, it does have some disadvantages.

Disadvantages of engineered timber flooring

• Engineered timber boards do not age well and have a shorter lifespan than solid timber
• Boards can only be sanded back once or twice due to the thin veneer
• If installed as a floating floor, it cannot be sanded and polished
• It is not as durable as solid timber flooring
• More susceptible to water and stains
• The plywood substrate isn’t as strong as hardwood
• Can sound hollow when walking on if installed as a floating floor.

As you can see, engineered and solid timber flooring are very different products, yet they both have advantages that make them appealing in different circumstances. As a result, it is important to choose flooring that not only looks good but suits the project and is fit for purpose.

Bowens Engineered and Solid Timber Flooring

Bowens supplies a wide selection of solid timber flooring and engineered timber flooring, suitable for residential and commercial properties. Explore our range of flooring online or in-store today.

To find the perfect solid timber flooring for your project, discover our blog “Native Hardwood Flooring” to read about the sizes, colouring and visual grades of our timber flooring range.

For more information about how to install engineered timber flooring, read our blog “Timber Flooring Installation: Which Method Should You Use” to find out what will give you the best result for your situation.