Bay Area flooring guides

Engineered Hardwood vs. Solid Hardwood: Pros and Cons

Engineered hardwood has a real wood top layer over a layered core, while solid hardwood is wood all the way through. Both bring real wood into a home; the right fit depends on the rooms and subfloor.

5 min readUpdated November 11, 2026

Living room with engineered hardwood flooring

Engineered hardwood uses a real wood surface layer bonded to a layered core, while solid hardwood is a single piece of wood throughout. Both give a home real wood floors. Luxury Solutions installs both and can help you compare them for your rooms.

What engineered hardwood offers

Engineered hardwood gives you the look and feel of real wood on the surface. Its layered construction is one reason it is offered in many plank widths and styles.

It is a common choice for living rooms, bedrooms and hallways.

What solid hardwood offers

Solid hardwood is wood from top to bottom. Many homeowners choose it for a classic floor, especially in traditional and older homes.

Some Bay Area homes already have original hardwood in some rooms, and homeowners want new floors that feel consistent.

Choosing between them

The subfloor, the rooms and the look you want all matter. Homes on concrete slabs and homes with wood subfloors can lead to different recommendations.

We review the space with you and explain the options in your estimate.

Plan your Bay Area flooring project

Learn more about this service or request an estimate. Call (510) 529-1378 to talk through your project with Robert Atkinson.

Frequently asked questions

Is engineered hardwood real wood?

Yes. Engineered hardwood has a real wood surface layer.

Do you install both types?

Yes. We install engineered hardwood and solid hardwood flooring.

Learn about Engineered Hardwood

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