Hardwood vs. Engineered Wood: Which Flooring Is Right for Your Home?

Comparing the durability, cost, and installation of solid hardwood and engineered wood floors.

Published on Feb. 19, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Hardwood and engineered wood floors both offer natural beauty and value, but have key differences in terms of lifespan, water resistance, and installation. Hardwood lasts longer and can be refinished more times, while engineered wood is more affordable and dimensionally stable. Understanding the pros and cons of each can help homeowners decide which option is best for their space and budget.

Why it matters

Choosing the right type of wood flooring is an important decision that can impact a home's long-term value, maintenance requirements, and overall aesthetic. This guide helps homeowners weigh the tradeoffs between hardwood and engineered wood to make an informed choice.

The details

Hardwood flooring is made from solid wood planks, while engineered wood has a hardwood veneer top layer over a plywood core. Hardwood is more durable and can be refinished multiple times, but engineered wood is more resistant to moisture and dimensional changes. Hardwood typically costs $6-$22 per square foot installed, while engineered wood runs $6-$14 per square foot. Both require professional installation, though engineered wood is slightly easier to DIY. Hardwood is best for high-traffic areas, while engineered wood is more suitable for moisture-prone spaces like kitchens and bathrooms.

  • The article was published on February 17, 2026.

The players

Carly Harrington

Owner of Floor Coverings International of South Atlanta, a flooring installation contractor in Georgia.

Alyssa Tautman

Interior Designer with Floor360, a flooring retailer in Wisconsin.

Matt Wien

Vice President of Sales and Marketing at Marshall Flooring, a flooring retailer in Cleveland, Ohio.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“'[The] durability [of engineered wood] is similar to solid hardwood for the same species; however it can only be refinished 1 to 3 times depending on the thickness of the veneer.'”

— Carly Harrington, Owner of Floor Coverings International of South Atlanta

“'In climates where weather, water, and humidity fluctuate dramatically, an engineered floor is more dimensionally stable, which will reduce the amount of gapping between boards and will perform better throughout its life.'”

— Alyssa Tautman, Interior Designer with Floor360

“'We typically do not sell any solid hardwood wider than 5 inches due to the lack of stability as you get wider with solid wood. Engineered wood allows for more stability as you get into wider planks, [which] is ideal for customers who prefer the longer and wider wood looks.'”

— Matt Wien, Vice President of Sales and Marketing at Marshall Flooring

What’s next

Homeowners should consult with a local flooring expert to discuss their specific needs, budget, and preferences to determine whether hardwood or engineered wood is the best choice for their home.

The takeaway

Both hardwood and engineered wood floors offer natural beauty and value, but have distinct differences in terms of durability, water resistance, and cost. Understanding these tradeoffs can help homeowners make an informed decision that aligns with their lifestyle, budget, and long-term goals for their home.