ENGINEERED WOOD
Engineered Wood vs Solid Wood Flooring: UK Comparison
Engineered wood has real wood top layer on plywood base. Solid wood is one-piece hardwood. Engineered is more stable, solid lasts longer.
Engineered wood: £25–70 per m², more stable (doesn't cup/bow), compatible with underfloor heating, can sand 1–4 times. Solid wood: £40–120 per m², lasts 50–100 years, can sand 5–7 times, but moves with humidity (gaps in winter).
Key differences
| Feature | Engineered | Solid |
|---|---|---|
| Construction | Wood veneer + plywood | One piece hardwood |
| Stability | High | Lower (seasonal movement) |
| Underfloor heating | Yes | No (gaps form) |
| Installation | Float, glue or nail | Nail or glue only |
| Times can sand | 1–4 | 5–7 |
| Lifespan | 20–40 years | 50–100 years |
| Cost per m² | £25–70 | £40–120 |
When to choose engineered wood
- Ground floors (more humid, solid wood would move too much)
- Over underfloor heating
- Flats (floating installation allowed)
- Budget under £60 per m²
When to choose solid wood
- Period homes (authentic material)
- Long-term investment (50+ year lifespan)
- Upstairs rooms with stable humidity
- Want maximum sanding potential
Cost comparison for 20m² living room
Engineered oak (3mm wear layer): £700 materials + £200 fitting = £900 total
Solid oak (18mm): £1,200 materials + £400 fitting = £1,600 total