When it comes to upgrading your floors, hardwood is one of the most timeless and value-adding choices you can make. But there’s an important question many Maryland homeowners face: Should you choose solid hardwood or engineered hardwood?
Let’s break down the differences so you can make the best decision for your home.
What is Solid Hardwood?
Solid hardwood planks are made from a single piece of natural wood, milled to size, and typically ¾-inch thick. They can be sanded and refinished multiple times over their lifetime, making them a long-term investment.
Benefits of Solid Hardwood:
- Can last for decades with proper care.
- Multiple refinishing options over time.
- Rich, authentic wood grain and feel.
- Increases home value and appeal.
Best For: Homeowners who plan to stay in their home long-term, want maximum lifespan, and live in stable climate conditions with minimal humidity fluctuations.
What is Engineered Hardwood?
Engineered hardwood is made from multiple layers of wood veneers, with a real hardwood layer on top. The core layers are designed for extra stability, making it less likely to expand or contract with changes in temperature and humidity.
Benefits of Engineered Hardwood:
- More resistant to moisture and humidity.
- Can be installed over concrete or radiant heating systems.
- Often more budget-friendly than solid hardwood.
- Available in a wide variety of styles and finishes.
Best For: Homes with fluctuating humidity (like basements or waterfront properties) or where installation over concrete is needed.
Key Differences at a Glance
| Feature | Solid Hardwood | Engineered Hardwood |
|---|---|---|
| Lifespan | 30–100 years | 20–40 years |
| Refinishing | Many times | 1–3 times (depending on wear layer) |
| Moisture Resistance | Low | Medium–High |
| Installation Options | Nail-down only | Nail, glue, or float |
| Cost | Higher | Moderate |
Which Should You Choose?
- Choose Solid Hardwood if you value a lifetime floor that can be refinished over and over, and your home has stable indoor humidity.
- Choose Engineered Hardwood if you need better moisture resistance, faster installation, or are working within a budget.
At Danzco Hardwood Floors, we install and refinish both solid and engineered hardwood, helping Maryland homeowners choose the best fit for their lifestyle, home design, and budget.
Need Professional Advice?
If you’re unsure which type is right for your home, our team can provide a free, no-obligation estimate and show you real samples so you can see and feel the difference.
📞 Call us today at 410-788-5919 or visit danzcohardwoodfloors.com to schedule your consultation.
