Choosing the right flooring for a commercial space is a big decision. One of the most common debates is engineered wood vs hardwood. Both look great, last a long time, and add value to a space—but which one is the better choice?

If you’re a commercial property owner, contractor, or developer, you need flooring that holds up under heavy foot traffic, looks professional, and fits your budget. In this blog, we’ll break down the differences between engineered wood vs hardwood, the pros and cons of each, and which one works best for different commercial spaces.

What’s the Difference Between Engineered Wood and Hardwood?

Hardwood Flooring: The Classic Choice

Hardwood flooring is made from solid planks of real wood, like oak, maple, or walnut. It has a natural beauty that many people love, and each plank has its own unique grain and character. One of the biggest perks of hardwood is that it can be sanded and refinished multiple times, making it last for decades. However, solid wood is sensitive to moisture and temperature changes, which can cause it to expand, shrink, or even warp over time.

Engineered Hardwood Flooring: More Stability, Same Look

Engineered hardwood flooring is made with a real wood top layer, but underneath, it has multiple layers of plywood or high-density fiberboard (HDF). This design makes it more stable and less likely to expand or contract with humidity or temperature changes. It looks just like solid hardwood, but it holds up better in places where moisture or temperature fluctuations are a concern—like busy offices, hotels, or retail spaces.

Durability: Which One Lasts Longer?

Durability is one of the most important factors when choosing flooring, especially for commercial spaces that experience constant foot traffic. Both solid hardwood and engineered hardwood flooring are built to last, but their durability depends on how well they handle wear and tear, moisture, and refinishing over time.

Hardwood Flooring: Built to Last, But Needs Care

If longevity is your top priority, solid hardwood is tough to beat. A well-maintained hardwood floor can last 50 to 100 years or even longer, making it a great long-term investment. Many historic buildings still have their original hardwood floors, proving how resilient this material can be.

Why Does Hardwood Last So Long?

The key to hardwood’s longevity is its ability to be refinished multiple times. Since it’s made of solid wood from top to bottom, you can sand it down and refinish it as many as 5 to 7 times—sometimes even more, depending on the thickness of the planks. This means that even after decades of use, a hardwood floor can be restored to look brand new.

However, while hardwood is incredibly durable, it does require more upkeep than engineered wood.

What Can Damage Hardwood Floors?

  • Scratches and Dents: Solid hardwood is more prone to scratches, dents, and scuffs, especially in high-traffic areas like hallways, lobbies, and office spaces. Heavy furniture, high heels, and pet claws can also leave marks.
  • Moisture and Humidity: Hardwood is highly sensitive to moisture. If exposed to water spills, leaks, or excessive humidity, it can warp, swell, or even rot over time. This makes it less ideal for environments with fluctuating humidity levels, like coastal or tropical regions.
  • Temperature Changes: Since wood naturally expands and contracts with temperature shifts, hardwood flooring is not recommended for areas with drastic climate changes unless humidity is controlled year-round.

How to Make Hardwood Last Longer

If you choose hardwood flooring, the key to longevity is proper care and maintenance:

  • Regular sweeping and vacuuming to remove dirt and debris that can cause scratches
  • Using furniture pads to prevent dents
  • Cleaning spills immediately to prevent water damage
  • Maintaining consistent indoor humidity to reduce expansion and contraction
  • Refinishing the surface every 10-20 years to keep it looking new

For commercial settings, hardwood is best suited for executive offices, high-end retail stores, and boutique hotels where the classic, luxurious look is worth the extra care.

Engineered Hardwood Flooring: Tough and Reliable

If you want the look of hardwood but need something more resistant to moisture, humidity, and temperature changes, engineered hardwood flooring is a smart choice. It’s designed to handle wear and tear better than solid hardwood, making it a great option for commercial spaces, rental properties, and high-traffic environments.

Why is Engineered Hardwood More Durable in Some Cases?

Engineered hardwood is made of multiple layers:

  • The top layer (also called the “wear layer”) is real hardwood, giving it an authentic look.
  • The core layers underneath are made of plywood or high-density fiberboard (HDF), which add strength and stability.

Because of this layered structure, engineered hardwood flooring doesn’t expand or contract as much as solid wood, making it ideal for areas with fluctuating temperatures or humidity levels—such as commercial buildings, hotels, and restaurants.

How Well Does Engineered Hardwood Handle Damage?

  • Moisture Resistance: One of the biggest advantages of engineered hardwood is that it resists warping and buckling from moisture far better than solid wood. While it’s not waterproof, it can handle occasional spills and damp conditions better than traditional hardwood.
  • Scratch and Dent Resistance: The durability of engineered wood depends on the thickness of the top veneer. Thicker veneers (3mm or more) are more resistant to dents and scratches, while thinner veneers may show signs of wear more quickly.
  • Temperature Stability: Engineered wood is designed to withstand temperature fluctuations, making it perfect for spaces with HVAC systems, radiant heating, or seasonal climate changes.

Can Engineered Hardwood Be Refinished?

Yes, but only if the top layer is thick enough.

  • High-quality engineered hardwood with a 3mm to 6mm top layer can be refinished once or twice in its lifetime.
  • Lower-quality options with a thin veneer (less than 2mm) cannot be sanded down, meaning once they wear out, they’ll need to be replaced instead of refinished.

Because engineered wood doesn’t last as long as solid hardwood in terms of refinishing, it’s best suited for businesses and commercial properties that need a durable, stylish floor but don’t plan on refinishing it multiple times over the decades.

Which One is More Durable for High-Traffic Areas?

If your space sees constant foot traffic, like a busy office, hotel, or retail store, you need flooring that can handle daily wear and tear without looking worn out.

  • For heavy foot traffic in commercial spaces: Engineered hardwood is the better choice because it’s more stable and less likely to warp or dent over time.
  • For luxury or executive spaces: Solid hardwood is best if you’re looking for a timeless, elegant appearance and don’t mind refinishing the floors every couple of decades.

What’s the Verdict?

  • If you want a long-lasting, traditional option that can be refinished many times: Go with solid hardwood.
  • If you need a moisture-resistant, stable flooring option that can handle heavy foot traffic: Choose engineered hardwood.

Appearance: Do They Look Different?

One of the first things people consider when choosing flooring is how it looks. After all, your floors set the tone for the entire space, whether it’s a commercial office, a retail store, or a hotel lobby.

The good news? Both engineered hardwood and solid hardwood look virtually the same once installed. Since engineered hardwood has a top layer of real wood, it offers the same natural beauty as solid hardwood, including the rich grains and deep color variations that make wood flooring so popular.

However, there are some subtle differences that might influence your decision.

How Does Hardwood Flooring Look?

  • Authentic and Timeless – Solid hardwood has a classic appearance that never goes out of style. Because each plank is made from a single piece of wood, you get deep, natural grain patterns with unique variations in color and texture.
  • Aging with Character – Over time, hardwood floors develop a rich patina, meaning the wood slightly changes in color and tone, adding to its character. Some people love this aged look, while others prefer a more uniform appearance.
  • Smaller Plank Sizes – Solid hardwood typically comes in standard plank widths, usually 2 ¼ to 4 inches wide, though wider options are available.

How Does Engineered Hardwood Flooring Look?

  • Same Natural Beauty – Since engineered hardwood has a real wood veneer, it looks just as authentic as solid hardwood. Most people can’t tell the difference once it’s installed.
  • More Modern Options – One advantage of engineered wood is that it often comes in wider planks—sometimes up to 7 inches wide or more. Wider planks create a more open, contemporary feel, making engineered hardwood a great choice for modern spaces.
  • Consistent Coloration – Engineered hardwood is often pre-finished in a controlled environment, so the color and finish tend to be more uniform across planks. Solid hardwood can have more natural variations since it’s finished on-site.

Can You Stain or Customize the Color?

  • Hardwood Flooring: Since it’s solid wood, you can sand and refinish it multiple times, allowing you to change the stain color if you want to update the look.
  • Engineered Hardwood Flooring: Refinishing is possible only if the top veneer is thick enough. If the veneer is too thin (less than 2mm), you won’t be able to sand it down without exposing the core layers underneath.

Which One Looks Better?

It all comes down to personal preference. If you want a classic, luxurious look with deep natural grain patterns, solid hardwood is an excellent choice. If you prefer wider planks and a more contemporary style, engineered hardwood flooring may be the better option.

Installation: Which One is Easier to Install?

Beyond looks, it’s important to think about how easy (or complicated) the installation process is. Whether you’re renovating an existing space or installing flooring in a brand-new building, the time and labor involved can impact your project timeline and budget.

Hardwood Flooring: A More Involved Process

Installing solid hardwood floors is a time-consuming and detailed process. It requires careful planning, professional expertise, and patience.

Steps to Install Hardwood Flooring:

  1. Acclimation Period: Before installation, hardwood planks need to sit in the space for a few days to adjust to the humidity and temperature. This helps prevent future expansion or contraction that could cause gaps or warping.
  2. Subfloor Preparation: The subfloor must be completely dry, level, and structurally sound to support the wood. Any moisture issues can cause serious problems down the line.
  3. Nailing or Stapling: Hardwood planks are typically nailed or stapled to a wooden subfloor. This requires precision to ensure the boards fit tightly together.
  4. Sanding and Finishing (If Unfinished Wood is Used): If you choose unfinished hardwood, the floor will need to be sanded, stained, and sealed after installation, adding time to the process. Pre-finished hardwood skips this step.

How Long Does It Take to Install Hardwood Floors?

  • Installation alone can take several days to a week, depending on the size of the space.
  • If sanding and finishing are required, add another 2 to 5 days for drying time.

Engineered Hardwood Flooring: Quick and Flexible

One of the biggest benefits of engineered hardwood flooring is its faster and easier installation. It’s designed to be more versatile than solid hardwood, which makes it a popular choice for commercial projects with tight deadlines.

Installation Methods for Engineered Hardwood:

Engineered wood can be installed in three different ways, depending on the subfloor and project needs:

  • Glue-Down: This method involves applying adhesive directly to the subfloor before laying the planks. It provides a strong and stable foundation but requires extra drying time.
  • Floating Floor: In this method, the planks are not attached to the subfloor. Instead, they click and lock together over an underlayment. This is the quickest and easiest installation method, making it ideal for renovations.
  • Nail or Staple Down: Like solid hardwood, engineered wood can also be nailed or stapled to a wooden subfloor. This provides a traditional, secure fit but takes longer than floating installation.

How Long Does It Take to Install Engineered Hardwood?

  • A floating floor can be installed in a single day, depending on the room size.
  • Glue-down or nail-down installations typically take 1 to 3 days, much quicker than solid hardwood.
  • Since engineered hardwood is often pre-finished, there’s no need for sanding, staining, or sealing, which saves even more time.

Which One is More DIY-Friendly?

  • Hardwood flooring is best left to professionals because it requires specialized tools, subfloor prep, and precise installation techniques.
  • Engineered hardwood flooring—especially floating floor options—is easier to install, making it a good choice for projects with tight deadlines or budget-conscious installations.

Which One Should You Choose?

If you’re trying to decide between engineered wood vs hardwood, consider your timeline, budget, and installation requirements.

  • Choose solid hardwood if: You’re willing to invest in a longer installation process for a timeless, classic flooring option that can last for generations.
  • Choose engineered hardwood if: You need a faster, more flexible installation that still provides the look of real wood with added stability.

Both options have their advantages, and the right choice depends on your specific project needs.

If you’re planning a commercial flooring project and need expert guidance, contact East Coast Flooring & Interiors today! Our team can help you find the best flooring solution for your space, budget, and timeline.

Maintenance: Which One is Easier to Take Care Of?

One of the biggest factors in choosing flooring—especially for commercial spaces—is how easy it is to maintain. Nobody wants to spend hours on upkeep, and in high-traffic areas, durability and ease of cleaning are key.

Both solid hardwood and engineered hardwood flooring require regular care to keep them looking great, but engineered hardwood flooring has a clear advantage when it comes to low-maintenance upkeep.

Hardwood Flooring: More Upkeep Required

Hardwood floors are known for their classic beauty, but they do require consistent maintenance to keep them looking their best. Since they’re made from solid wood, they are more susceptible to moisture, scratches, and wear over time.

What Does Regular Hardwood Maintenance Look Like?

  • Sweeping and Vacuuming: Dust and debris can cause scratches, so regular cleaning is essential. A soft-bristle broom or a vacuum with a hardwood floor setting helps keep dirt at bay.
  • Damp Mopping with Caution: Hardwood floors should never be soaked with water. A lightly damp mop or a microfiber cloth with a wood-safe cleaner is best. Too much moisture can lead to warping, swelling, or even mold growth.
  • Protecting Against Scratches: Using furniture pads, area rugs, and no-shoe policies in sensitive areas can help minimize scratches and dents. High heels and pet claws can be particularly damaging.
  • Immediate Spill Cleanup: Because wood absorbs moisture, spills should be wiped up immediately to prevent stains, swelling, or long-term damage.
  • Refinishing When Needed: One major benefit of solid hardwood is that it can be sanded and refinished multiple times. Over time, floors may start to show scratches, dents, or fading, and refinishing can bring them back to life. However, refinishing requires time, money, and professional expertise.

How Often Does Hardwood Need to Be Refinished?

  • In high-traffic commercial spaces: Every 5 to 10 years
  • In lower-traffic areas: Every 10 to 20 years

While solid hardwood can last decades or even a century, it needs periodic refinishing to maintain its appearance, which adds to its long-term upkeep costs.

Engineered Hardwood Flooring: Low-Maintenance Option

If you’re looking for a durable, easy-to-care-for flooring option, engineered hardwood flooring is a smart choice. It’s designed to be more resistant to moisture and scratches, making it a great option for businesses, retail stores, restaurants, and other high-traffic areas.

Why is Engineered Hardwood Easier to Maintain?

  • More Resistant to Moisture: While engineered wood is not waterproof, its layered construction makes it far less likely to warp or swell when exposed to small amounts of moisture.
  • Less Prone to Scratches and Dents: Thanks to a strong top finish and layered design, engineered hardwood holds up well in busy environments. Some brands even offer scratch-resistant coatings for added durability.
  • No Need for Frequent Refinishing: Unlike solid hardwood, most engineered hardwood floors cannot be refinished multiple times—but they also don’t require it as often. High-quality engineered floors with thick veneers can be refinished once or twice if necessary.
  • Easier Cleaning Routine: Engineered hardwood only requires routine sweeping and occasional damp mopping to stay in top shape. Unlike solid hardwood, you don’t have to be as concerned about minor spills causing major damage.

Which One Requires Less Work Over Time?

If you want a flooring option that requires less frequent refinishing and handles everyday messes better, engineered hardwood is the clear winner. However, if you don’t mind putting in extra effort to maintain a floor that can last for generations, solid hardwood is a great long-term choice.

Cost: Which One Gives You More Bang for Your Buck?

Budget plays a big role in flooring decisions, especially for commercial properties. Both engineered and solid hardwood flooring are investments, but they come with different upfront and long-term costs.

Hardwood Flooring: Higher Upfront Cost, Long-Term Value

Solid hardwood tends to have a higher price tag because it’s made entirely of natural wood. Both the material itself and the installation process require a larger upfront investment.

Why is Hardwood More Expensive?

  • Material Costs: Solid wood planks are cut from single pieces of high-quality wood, making them more expensive than layered alternatives.
  • Installation Costs: Because hardwood must be nailed or stapled to a subfloor, it requires more labor and time, increasing costs.
  • Finishing Costs: If you choose unfinished hardwood, you’ll also need to pay for sanding, staining, and sealing after installation, which adds time and money to the process.

Long-Term Value of Hardwood

Although solid hardwood costs more upfront, it offers long-term value because:

  • It can be refinished multiple times instead of being replaced.
  • It lasts 50 to 100 years, meaning businesses won’t need to invest in new flooring as often.
  • It adds resale value to a property because of its classic appeal.

Engineered Hardwood Flooring: More Affordable & Practical

While high-end engineered hardwood flooring can match the cost of solid wood, most options are more budget-friendly—especially when considering installation.

Why is Engineered Hardwood More Cost-Effective?

  • Lower Material Costs: Because engineered wood uses a thin top veneer of hardwood rather than a full solid plank, it’s generally less expensive per square foot.
  • Easier and Faster Installation: Many engineered wood products offer floating floor installation, which cuts down on labor costs and time.
  • Less Maintenance Costs Over Time: Since engineered wood doesn’t require refinishing as often as solid hardwood, you won’t have to budget for resurfacing as frequently.

Is Engineered Hardwood a Good Long-Term Investment?

While engineered hardwood doesn’t last as long as solid hardwood, high-quality options can still last 30 to 50 years. If long-term durability is important, choose engineered wood with a thick wear layer (3mm or more) to extend its lifespan.

Which One is the Better Deal?

If you’re trying to decide between engineered wood vs hardwood based on budget, here’s what to consider:

  • Choose solid hardwood if: You’re willing to invest more upfront for a floor that lasts generations and can be refinished multiple times. It’s ideal for high-end properties where long-term value matters.
  • Choose engineered hardwood if: You want a high-quality, durable floor at a lower upfront cost. It’s a great choice for commercial spaces, high-traffic areas, or projects with tighter budgets.

Which One is Best for Commercial Spaces?

For commercial spaces, the choice between engineered wood vs hardwood comes down to practicality.

  • Go with solid hardwood if: You want a high-end, long-lasting floor and don’t mind the extra maintenance. Hardwood works best in areas where humidity is controlled.
  • Go with engineered hardwood if: You need a durable, moisture-resistant floor that can handle heavy foot traffic, temperature changes, and daily wear and tear.

Final Verdict: Which One Wins?

When it comes to engineered wood vs hardwood, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. Hardwood flooring offers unmatched natural beauty and longevity, but engineered hardwood flooring is more practical for commercial spaces because it’s more durable, easier to install, and holds up better in busy environments.

If you’re looking for the best flooring solution for your commercial property, contact East Coast Flooring & Interiors today! Our experts can help you choose the perfect flooring to match your space, style, and budget.

This article was originally published on 10/16/2020 and has been updated on 3/18/2025 to provide the most accurate and relevant information.