Solid hardwood has always been a favorite among Florida homeowners for its timeless beauty and durability. But if you’re shopping for hardwood flooring in Jacksonville, FL, or looking into how it’s installed, you’ll need to choose between solid hardwood and engineered hardwood.
While both offer great benefits, solid hardwood floors have some clear advantages in Jacksonville’s humid climate. In this guide, we’ll look at when and why you’ll want to choose solid hardwood flooring over engineered options.
Let’s get into it:
What Is Solid Hardwood Flooring?
Solid hardwood floors are made from a single piece of natural wood, like oak, maple, or hickory. This type of flooring brings out rich, natural color and pattern, and is known for its durability.
Because each plank is solid wood all the way through, it can be sanded and refinished multiple times over its lifespan. Many homeowners in Jacksonville look for solid wood flooring because of its traditional look and the ability to be customized with stains or finishes.
If you’re also searching for “solid hardwood flooring near me” in Jacksonville, check out what Lifetime Flooring has to offer. We stock locally sourced products and provide expert flooring advice for homeowners in Northeast Florida and its surrounding areas.
What Is Engineered Hardwood?
Engineered wood has a top layer of real hardwood attached to several layers of plywood or fiberboard. The result is a floor that looks like solid hardwood, but with added stability, making it a go-to choice for moisture-prone areas or basements.
Engineered hardwood has its benefits, but it can’t always match the refinishing potential, long-term durability, or authentic look and feel of solid hardwood.
Solid Hardwood vs. Engineered Wood: The Key Differences
| Feature | Engineered Hardwood | Solid Hardwood |
| Durability | Moderately durable | Extremely long-lasting |
| Refinishing Potential | Limited (1–2 times) | Multiple times |
| Moisture Resistance | More stable in humidity | Sensitive |
| Cost | More budget-friendly | Higher |
| Installation Location | Any level (including basement) | Above-grade only |
If you’re investing in a home you plan to enjoy for years, or want a floor you can update to match your changing tastes, solid wood hardwood flooring is the better choice.
When to Choose Solid Hardwood Over Engineered Hardwood
1. You’re Planning for a Forever Home
Solid hardwood flooring can last 75–100 years with regular care. It’s a smart choice for Jacksonville homeowners investing in long-term property value.
2. You’re Flooring Dry, Above-Grade Areas
Solid wood is ideal for living rooms, dining rooms, and bedrooms because these are the areas where you don’t want moisture to enter.
3. You Want the Ability to Refinish Over Time
Unlike engineered wood, solid wood can be sanded and refinished over and over again, making it perfect for refinishing your floors as your style changes or after years of use.
4. You Love the Look of Traditional, Authentic Wood
Solid wood has a unique warmth and natural grain that engineered flooring can’t replicate. When it comes to a classic, authentic look, solid hardwood flooring is hard to beat.
5. You’re Thinking About Resale Value
Homes with solid hardwood flooring attract more buyers and competitive offers, especially in sought-after neighborhoods across Jacksonville.
6. You Want Locally Sourced Materials
Solid hardwood options are widely available in the local market. When you search “solid hardwood flooring near me,” you can get a list of local suppliers online. The materials they provide are proven to last in Florida’s humid climate.
7. You Want a Custom Stain or Finish
Solid hardwood is customizable. Whether you want a deep espresso color or a light, beachy feel, there are plenty of options, and you can always refinish down the road if you change your mind.
What About Solid Wood Flooring Prices and Installation?
Solid hardwood flooring prices tend to run higher than engineered wood. Prices depend on the wood type, plank size, finish, and how it’s installed. But value goes beyond the initial expense.
Professionally installed hardwood flooring offers:
- A longer lifespan.
- The option to refinish instead of replace.
- Classic appeal that never goes out of style.
When looking for hardwood flooring with installation experts in Jacksonville, be sure to get quotes from experienced local teams like Lifetime Flooring. They’ll know how to prepare your home for Florida’s humidity and ensure a long-lasting installation.
When Engineered Hardwood Is a Better Fit
Solid wood isn’t always the best choice for every project. Engineered solid wood may be ideal if:
- You need flooring for a basement or anywhere that gets damp.
- You want a faster, more affordable install.
- You’re doing a short-term upgrade for resale.
Even with these advantages, engineered hardwood doesn’t offer the same long lifespan or flexibility to refinish as solid wood.
Choosing a Jacksonville Flooring Company
You’ll find many options when looking for a flooring company in Jacksonville, but not all of them are made equal. You need someone who understands your needs and works within your budget. Look for a local provider with:
- A showroom featuring both solid and engineered hardwood samples.
- Clear explanations of product performance.
- Certified installation teams who specialize in Florida homes.
- Transparent pricing and timeline guidance.
- Strong local reviews and warranty-backed work.
At Lifetime Flooring, you’ll find all that and more from the first consultation to the final walkthrough.
Final Thoughts: Is Solid Hardwood Right for You?
If you value timeless style, customization, and a sound investment, solid hardwood flooring is hard to beat. Whether you’re remodeling your dream home or upgrading just one room, choosing solid wood means picking a floor you’ll love for years to come.
Contact Lifetime Flooring today. We’re here to help you find the perfect fit for your space.