Which Scratches Less, Hardwood or Engineered Hardwood?

Hardwood or Engineered Hardwood: Which Holds Up Better?

When choosing between hardwood or engineered hardwood, one of the most common concerns for homeowners is scratch resistance. Whether you have kids, pets, or high-traffic areas, selecting the right flooring can save you frustration and long-term maintenance costs. At Flooring Liquidators, we help homeowners across Ontario, Canada, explore options that balance durability, beauty, and practicality for every space.

Comparing Scratch Resistance and Durability

Understanding how hardwood and engineered hardwood react to daily wear starts with a few key factors:

• Scratch Resistance: Hardwood is generally more durable on the surface, but engineered hardwood with a high-quality wear layer can also resist scratches effectively. The Janka hardness scale helps measure wood toughness.
• Finishes: Prefinished and aluminum-oxide coated floors tend to resist scratches better than unfinished wood.
• Refinishing: Solid hardwood can be sanded and refinished multiple times, restoring its look. Engineered hardwood can sometimes be refinished, depending on the thickness of its top veneer.
• Pets and Kids: Both flooring types can perform well, but engineered hardwood is often more stable in areas with fluctuating humidity and temperature. For pet-friendly flooring tips, see our flooring for pets blog.

Takeaways

• Solid hardwood: high scratch resistance, multiple refinishes, classic durability
• Engineered hardwood: more stable, may have limited refinishing, can resist scratches if wear layer is thick
• Both: Choose finishes wisely to enhance scratch protection
• Ideal for homes with pets and kids when paired with durable finishes

FAQs About Hardwood and Engineered Hardwood

Q: Can engineered hardwood be refinished?
A: Some engineered hardwoods can be refinished 1–2 times, depending on the top veneer thickness. Always check manufacturer specifications.

Q: Which is better for pets?
A: Both can work, but engineered hardwood with a scratch-resistant finish offers stability against moisture and paw wear.

Q: How do I choose the right hardness?
A: Reference the Janka hardness scale to match your flooring to your household needs. Harder woods are less prone to dents and scratches.

Choosing the Right Flooring in Ontario

Whether you live in Toronto, Ottawa, Hamilton, or surrounding areas, Flooring Liquidators helps Ontario homeowners make informed choices for long-lasting, stylish flooring. Understanding how hardwood or engineered hardwood performs ensures your floors stay beautiful for years to come.

Final Thoughts

Selecting the right type of wood and finish for your lifestyle can reduce scratches and extend the life of your flooring. For expert guidance and a wide selection of hardwood and engineered hardwood options, visit our store locator to find a Flooring Liquidators location near you.