Which Is Better: Hardwood Floors or Engineered Hardwood?

The Big Flooring Question

 

 

Choosing new floors can be exciting and a little overwhelming. 

 

Especially when it comes to one of the most asked-about options: solid hardwood versus engineered hardwood. Both look beautiful, feel natural, and add value to your home.

 

But they have key differences that could make or break your satisfaction long-term.

So which is better for your lifestyle, budget, and Iowa's ever-changing weather? Let’s break it down.

 

 

What Is Solid Hardwood Flooring?

 

 

Solid hardwood is exactly what it sounds like: each plank is one solid piece of wood. It’s a classic, timeless flooring option that can last for generations if well cared for.

 

 

Pros:

• Authentic wood look and feel

• Can be sanded and refinished multiple times

• Adds long-term resale value

 

 

Cons:

• More prone to warping in humidity

• Higher cost upfront

• Must be nailed down to a wood subfloor

 

 

Want to see top styles and finishes that fit Iowa homes? Check out these hardwood floor species and finishes.

 

 

What Is Engineered Hardwood Flooring?

 

 

Engineered hardwood has a real wood top layer, backed by multiple layers of wood composite. It looks just like solid hardwood, but it’s built to be more stable in moisture-prone areas.

 

 

Pros:

• Real wood veneer for authentic look

• Better resistance to humidity and temperature changes

• Can be floated, glued, or nailed

 

 

Cons:

• Can only be refinished once or twice

• Quality can vary depending on the brand

 

 

Learn more about engineered hardwood's benefits and how it performs.

 

 

Key Differences: Side-by-Side Comparison

 

 

Feature	Solid Hardwood	Engineered Hardwood
Structure	One solid wood plank	Real wood top over layered core
Moisture Resistance	Low	High
Refinishing	Multiple times	Once or twice
Installation	Nail-down only	Nail, glue, or float
Best Uses	Main floors, traditional homes	Basements, radiant heat floors
Price	Higher	Mid-range

 

 

Curious how engineered compares with other budget-friendly options like laminate or vinyl? Read our full comparison guide.

 

 

How to Choose the Right Fit

 

 

Picking a winner depends on your lifestyle and home design goals.

 

 

• Busy household with kids or pets? Go with engineered for added stability.

• Historic home or long-term investment? Solid hardwood adds lasting value.

• Installing over concrete or in a basement? Engineered is the better fit.

• Want more plank styles and colors? Engineered often has wider selections.

 

 

Need help navigating your options? Explore our full hardwood collection.

 

 

Don’t Forget About Trends and Care

 

 

The look you choose should reflect your style, but also your lifestyle. What’s trendy now in Central Iowa? See Iowa's top flooring trends here.

 

 

Once installed, all floors need a little care to keep their shine. Here’s our floor care guide to help you get the most out of your floors.

 

 

Final Thoughts: There’s No One-Size-Fits-All Answer

 

 

Hardwood and engineered hardwood both offer stunning looks, long-term value, and real wood appeal. It comes down to where it’s going, how you live, and how much flexibility you need.

 

 

Ready to see samples in person? Visit our showroom or schedule a free design consultation. We’ll help you choose the perfect fit.

 

 

Explore hardwood flooring at Royal Flooring or learn more about your options in our blog.