Engineered vs Solid Timber Flooring: Which Should You Choose?

Nothing beats the warmth of a real timber floor. The next question is whether to choose engineered or solid. Both are genuine timber, but they are built differently. Here is our simple guide to engineered vs solid timber flooring.

Engineered vs solid timber flooring at a glance

Why choose engineered timber?

• Real timber look with extra stability.
• Faster installation, with no on-site sanding and coating for pre-finished boards.
• Wide, long boards in popular European Oak styles.

Why choose solid timber?

• Built to last generations and can be refinished many times.
• A huge species choice, including Australian favourites.
• Finish it your way, as it is coated on site.

Our engineered timber ranges

Royal 14/2mm Oak – a 2mm European Oak veneer over a cross-laminated plywood core, in long 1900mm boards, with a 20 year residential wear warranty.

Royal 15/4mm Oak – a thicker 4mm French Oak veneer on 7 layers of eucalyptus plywood, for floating or glued installation, with a 25 year limited residential warranty.

Sidura 1 Strip – Australian Blackbutt, Spotted Gum and Tasmanian Oak in a classic long plank, with a European lacquer and Uniclic joining system.

Our solid timber range

Traditional Solid Flooring – genuine solid timber supplied raw, ready to be sanded and finished on site. Choose from Blackbutt, Spotted Gum, Tallowood, Ironbark, Jarrah, Brushbox and more.

Which should you choose?

Choose engineered timber flooring for stability, speed and a modern European Oak look. Choose solid timber for a floor that can be refinished for decades and a wide choice of Australian species. Already have timber floors that need love? Our floor sanding and polishing team can help. Also comparing hybrid? Read hybrid vs engineered timber flooring.

See real timber in person

Timber grain and colour are best seen at full size. Visit Royal Floors in Penrith, Campbelltown, Hornsby or Logan, or book a free measure and quote and we will bring the samples to you.

A few of our favourite shades

Frequently asked questions

Is engineered timber real wood?

Yes. Engineered timber has a real timber top layer bonded to a stable core, so the surface you see and touch is genuine wood.

Can engineered timber be sanded?

Often yes, depending on the thickness of the top layer. A thicker top layer generally allows more sanding over the life of the floor.

Which lasts longer, engineered or solid timber?

Solid timber can be sanded and refinished many times, so it can last for generations. Quality engineered timber also lasts for many years with good care.

Explore our timber flooring range and bring natural warmth home.