Choosing the right flooring is a major decision for any home or commercial space. Two of the most popular options today are hardwood flooring and engineered flooring. While both offer the beauty of real timber, they differ significantly in construction, performance, cost, and long-term value.
At Melbourne Timber Supplies, we help customers every day choose the flooring solution that best suits their lifestyle, budget, and environment. This guide explains the key differences between hardwood flooring and engineered flooring so you can make an informed choice.
What Is Hardwood Flooring?
Hardwood flooring is made from solid timber boards milled from a single piece of wood. Popular species include Spotted Gum, Blackbutt, Tasmanian Oak, and Jarrah.
Key Characteristics:
- 100% natural solid timber
- Can be sanded and refinished multiple times
- Long lifespan (often decades)
- Premium, authentic appearance
Hardwood flooring is valued for its strength, durability, and ability to age beautifully over time.
What Is Engineered Flooring?
Engineered flooring consists of a real timber veneer bonded to multiple layers of plywood or composite material beneath. This layered construction improves stability.
Key Characteristics:
- Real timber surface with engineered core
- More resistant to moisture and temperature changes
- Usually pre-finished
- Faster installation
Engineered flooring delivers the look of timber with enhanced dimensional stability.
Hardwood Flooring vs Engineered Flooring
1. Durability & Lifespan
- Hardwood flooring can last 40–100 years with proper care.
- Engineered flooring typically lasts 15–30 years, depending on veneer thickness.
2. Refinishing Ability
- Hardwood floors can be sanded and refinished many times.
- Engineered floors can only be refinished once or twice (or not at all if veneer is thin).
3. Moisture Resistance
- Engineered flooring handles humidity and moisture better.
- Hardwood flooring requires controlled environments.
4. Installation
- Engineered flooring allows floating or glue-down installation.
- Hardwood flooring is usually nailed or glued and requires professional installation.
5. Cost
- Hardwood flooring has a higher upfront cost but long-term value.
- Engineered flooring is generally more affordable initially.
Which Flooring Is Right for You?
Choose hardwood flooring if:
- You want long-term value and durability
- You prefer a premium, traditional timber feel
- You plan to refinish floors in the future
Choose engineered flooring if:
- You need better moisture stability
- You want faster installation
- You’re working with a tighter budget or slab foundation
Expert Advice from Melbourne Timber Supplies
At Melbourne Timber Supplies, we stock a wide range of hardwood flooring options and can guide you on engineered alternatives that suit Melbourne’s climate. Our team ensures you choose flooring that performs well and enhances your space for years to come.
Both hardwood and engineered flooring offer the warmth and beauty of real timber. The right choice depends on your environment, budget, and long-term expectations. Hardwood flooring provides unmatched longevity and authenticity, while engineered flooring offers practicality and stability. With expert guidance, either option can deliver stunning results.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Is hardwood flooring better than engineered flooring?
Neither is universally better it depends on usage, moisture levels, and budget.
2. Can engineered flooring be sanded?
Some engineered floors can be lightly sanded, depending on veneer thickness.
3. Which flooring lasts longer?
Hardwood flooring generally lasts much longer than engineered flooring.
4. Is engineered flooring real timber?
Yes, it has a real timber top layer.
5. What flooring is best for Melbourne homes?
Both work well, but engineered flooring performs better in areas with moisture variation.
6. Is hardwood flooring suitable for concrete slabs?
Yes, but it requires professional installation and moisture control.
7. Does engineered flooring look cheaper than hardwood?
High-quality engineered flooring looks very similar to solid hardwood.
8. Which option adds more property value?
Hardwood flooring typically adds higher long-term property value.
9. Is engineered flooring good for underfloor heating?
Yes, engineered flooring is generally more compatible with underfloor heating.
10. Where can I buy quality timber flooring in Melbourne?
You can source premium hardwood flooring and expert advice from Melbourne Timber Supplies.
