Hardwood floors are a classic choice that never goes out of style. They bring warmth, character, and lasting value to any home. But if you’re planning new hardwood floors, you face one big question: should you choose solid or engineered hardwood flooring? Both are great options, but each has its own strengths. The right choice depends on your home, lifestyle, and budget. Let’s break it down so you can feel confident about your decision.
What makes solid wood flooring unique
Solid hardwood is exactly what it sounds like. Each plank is one piece of natural wood from top to bottom. Because of this, it can be sanded and refinished many times. That means a solid hardwood floor could last for generations if it’s cared for properly.
Solid hardwood flooring also has a timeless appeal. It feels sturdy underfoot and develops character over time. If you want a floor that adds long-term value to your home, solid hardwood is a safe bet.
The main drawback? Moisture. Solid wood flooring expands and contracts with changes in humidity. In St. Louis, MO, where we get sticky summers and cold winters, that movement can be a challenge. It’s best to install solid hardwood in above-grade, climate-controlled spaces like living rooms, dining rooms, and bedrooms.
Why homeowners choose engineered hardwood flooring
Engineered wood flooring is built differently. Instead of being one solid piece, each plank has a thin layer of real hardwood on top and multiple layers of plywood or fiberboard underneath. This layered construction makes engineered hardwood flooring more stable when exposed to changes in humidity and temperature.
That stability means you can install engineered hardwood in places where solid hardwood might not work as well, like basements or over concrete subfloors. It’s also usually a bit more affordable than solid hardwood, giving you the look of real wood without the higher price tag.
However, engineered hardwood flooring has limits. The hardwood layer on top is thinner, so it can only be refinished a few times, if at all, depending on the product. That means it may not last as long as solid hardwood in a high-traffic household.
How to decide between solid and engineered hardwood floors
So which one is right for your home? Start by thinking about where the floor will go. If you’re updating a main-level living space where conditions stay consistent, solid hardwood could be the better choice. It gives you durability, long-term value, and the ability to refinish multiple times.
If you’re finishing a basement, working with a concrete subfloor, or worried about humidity, engineered hardwood flooring might be the smarter option. It offers more installation flexibility and better stability in challenging environments.
Budget also plays a role. Solid hardwood tends to be more expensive upfront, but it pays off with long life and refinishing options. Engineered hardwood is often easier on the wallet, which makes it appealing for homeowners who want real wood floors without stretching their budget too far.
Hardwood flooring in St. Louis homes
Here in St. Louis, we see both types of hardwood flooring work beautifully. Solid hardwood is a favorite for homeowners who plan to stay in their homes long-term and want the ability to refinish their floors over the years. Engineered hardwood flooring shines in homes where basements or fluctuating humidity could cause problems for solid wood.
No matter which option you choose, the right flooring comes down to your lifestyle, design preferences, and budget. Hardwood floors bring warmth and beauty to any space, and with expert installation, they can serve your home for many years.
We offer high-quality solid and engineered wood flooring in St. Louis, MO
If you’re ready to explore hardwood flooring for your St. Louis home, Lawson Brothers Floor Company can help. We carry a wide selection of both solid and engineered hardwood in today’s most popular styles. Our flooring experts will walk you through the differences, show you samples, and help you make the best decision for your home. Our wood flooring store in St. Louis, MO, serves the St. Louis area, including Clayton, Town and Country, Chesterfield, Frontenac, Wildwood, Richmond Heights, and Sunset Hills, MO. Contact us today!
