Hardwood flooring is one of the most desirable upgrades for homes across Edmonton and surrounding areas, from Sherwood Park and St. Albert to Fort Saskatchewan and Beaumont. But choosing between engineered hardwood and solid hardwood can feel overwhelming if you’re not familiar with how they differ—especially in Alberta’s dry winters and fluctuating humidity seasons.
Below is a clear, homeowner‑friendly breakdown to help you choose the right hardwood floor for your lifestyle, budget, and home’s structure.
Solid hardwood is made from a single piece of real wood, milled into thick planks. It’s long‑lasting and offers the classic, timeless appearance many homeowners love.
Benefits of solid hardwood:
• Can be refinished many times over decades
• Increases home resale value
• Offers rich, authentic wood character
• Extremely durable with proper care
Things to consider in Edmonton’s climate:
Our dry winters and humid summers can cause solid hardwood to expand and contract. This means professional installation and proper humidity control are essential to prevent cupping or gaps.
Engineered hardwood features a real hardwood top layer fused to multiple layers of plywood or HDF. This layered construction adds stability and moisture resistance—key benefits in Alberta’s varied climate.
Benefits of engineered hardwood:
• More resistant to seasonal moisture changes
• Suitable for basements and concrete slabs
• Offers the same real‑wood appearance
• Faster, more flexible installation options
• Often more cost‑friendly
Engineered hardwood is especially popular in newer Edmonton builds, condos, and homes with in‑floor heating systems.
Installation Options: How They Differ
Choosing the right installation technique can greatly impact performance and longevity.
Solid Hardwood Installation Options:
• Nail‑Down: The standard method, used with plywood or OSB subfloors. Offers a sturdy, permanent feel.
• Glue‑Down: Occasionally used for specific solid wood products but less common.
• Not Suitable for Floating Install: Solid hardwood expands too much for floating setups, especially in Alberta’s climate.
Engineered Hardwood Installation Options:
• Floating Installation (Click‑Lock): Great for condos, basements, and fast installs. No nails or glue needed.
• Glue‑Down: Ideal for concrete slabs—common in Edmonton basements and newer homes.
• Nail or Staple‑Down: Works well on wooden subfloors for a traditional hardwood feel.
Which installation is best for Edmonton?
• Basements: Engineered hardwood (floating or glue‑down).
• Main Floors: Either type works, depending on subfloor and humidity maintenance.
• Homes with radiant heat: Engineered hardwood performs better due to stability.
Engineered vs. Solid Hardwood: Which Should You Choose?
For older Edmonton character homes with wooden subfloors, solid hardwood is a beautiful long‑term investment. For newer homes, basements, or areas prone to humidity swings, engineered hardwood may offer better performance.
Ultimately, the best choice depends on:
• Your home’s subfloor
• Alberta’s climate impacts
• Your budget
• Whether you want the ability to refinish repeatedly
• Your desired installation timeline
Ready to Elevate Your Edmonton Home?
If you’re planning a remodel or new flooring installation in Edmonton or surrounding communities, our team can help you select the perfect hardwood—engineered or solid—based on your home, lifestyle, and budget.