Hardwood Flooring
Installation In
San Diego

Solid hardwood is exactly what it sounds like—flooring made from a single piece of natural wood, typically about ¾” thick. It’s known for its timeless beauty, rich character, and ability to be sanded and refinished multiple times over its life.

Engineered hardwood, on the other hand, is made from a real hardwood top layer that’s bonded over multiple layers of plywood or fiberboard. It’s designed for greater stability and resistance to changes in moisture and temperature.

Both options deliver a beautiful wood look, and to the untrained eye, they can look nearly identical once installed. Solid hardwood tends to develop more character as it ages, giving it a slightly more natural patina over time. Engineered hardwood comes in a wide variety of styles and finishes, and because of modern technology, it’s often hard to tell the difference.

Solid hardwood usually comes with a higher price tag—both in materials and labor—due to the wood content and the more involved installation process. Engineered hardwood is typically more budget-friendly, making it a great choice for homeowners looking for real wood at a lower price point.

When it comes to longevity, solid hardwood is the winner. It can last 30 to 100 years or more if properly cared for, and it can be refinished several times throughout its life. Engineered hardwood generally lasts 20 to 40 years and may only be refinished once or twice, depending on the thickness of the top wood layer.

Both floors feel great underfoot, but solid hardwood tends to have a slightly warmer, denser feel and a more natural sound when walked on. Engineered hardwood may sound a little more hollow without a proper underlayment, but when installed correctly, the difference is often minimal.

Solid hardwood can be sensitive to moisture and changes in temperature—it can expand, contract, or even warp in extreme conditions. That’s why it’s not recommended for basements, bathrooms, or over concrete subfloors. Engineered hardwood is much more stable and resistant to humidity and heat, making it a smart option for areas where solid wood might struggle.

Solid hardwood typically needs to be nailed or stapled to a wood subfloor, which means it’s best for above-grade installations. Engineered hardwood is more versatile—it can be nailed, glued, or even floated over various subfloors, including concrete. This flexibility makes it ideal for modern homes with open layouts and different subfloor materials.

Engineered hardwood tends to come in a wider variety of plank widths and lengths, offering more options for design and layout. Solid hardwood is more limited in this regard, though it still offers plenty of classic choices.

Both flooring types are relatively easy to maintain with regular sweeping and occasional mopping using a wood-safe cleaner. However, solid hardwood can require more long-term care, especially in humid environments. Engineered hardwood is generally more stable and lower-maintenance over time, especially in busy households or homes with pets and kids.