How to Choose Between Engineered Timber Flooring and Solid Timber Flooring in Melbourne
Melbourne’s climate swings from humid summers to cool, damp winters-conditions that test the durability and stability of timber floors. Choosing between engineered timber flooring and solid timber flooring in Melbourne means weighing up not just aesthetics, but also how each will perform under local conditions. Engineered timber flooring is a multi-layered product designed for stability, while solid timber flooring is made from single planks of hardwood for a traditional look and feel.
If you’re facing this decision, you’re certainly not alone. Many homeowners want the warmth and elegance of timber but need clear advice on which option suits their lifestyle, property type, and the quirks of Melbourne living. Our team at RG Timber Floors has worked with both materials across a range of projects, so we know what matters most when making this choice.
What’s the difference between engineered and solid timber flooring?
Engineered timber flooring features a real hardwood veneer over layers of plywood or high-density fibreboard, giving it excellent stability in changing temperatures and humidity. Solid timber flooring consists of planks made entirely from one species of hardwood, offering classic appeal and the potential for multiple sandings over its lifespan.
Both types can look almost identical once installed, but their construction affects how they perform, how they’re installed, and how they age. Engineered boards are less prone to movement with moisture changes-an important factor in homes around Port Phillip Bay or the leafy streets near Fitzroy Gardens where seasonal shifts can be dramatic.
Key points
Engineered timber offers better stability in variable climates like Melbourne.
Solid timber provides a traditional look and can be refinished multiple times.
Subfloor preparation impacts both options’ durability.
Installation methods differ-engineered can often be floated or glued; solid typically requires nailing or direct fix.
Both can achieve premium finishes when professionally installed.
Which is better for Melbourne’s climate?
Engineered timber flooring excels in Melbourne due to its layered construction, which resists warping and cupping when humidity fluctuates. Solid timber is beautiful but more sensitive to environmental changes; it may shrink or expand more noticeably if your home lacks consistent climate control. Homes near coastal areas or those with older heating systems often benefit from engineered options because they handle these variations gracefully.
Solid boards remain popular for period homes or where original floorboards are being matched. However, careful acclimatisation and ongoing maintenance are essential if you want them looking sharp year-round in Melbourne’s unpredictable weather.
What affects the cost?
Several factors influence the cost of both engineered and solid timber floors:
Timber species: Australian hardwoods like Blackbutt or Spotted Gum command higher prices than imported species or softwoods.
Board thickness: Thicker boards (common with solid) generally cost more upfront but offer greater longevity through additional sandings.
Installation method: Floating engineered floors are usually quicker and less labour-intensive than secret nailing solid boards directly to joists.
Subfloor condition: Older homes in places like St Kilda or Carlton may need extra preparation-levelling, moisture barriers, or repairs-which adds to total cost regardless of floor type.
Finishing touches: Custom stair nosings, trims, and coatings can also impact final pricing.
How do installation methods differ?
Engineered timber can often be floated over underlay or glued directly to concrete slabs-ideal for apartments or renovations where subfloor access is limited. This approach speeds up installation and reduces mess. Solid timber usually requires a more involved process: either secret nailing to battens/joists or direct fixing to a prepared substrate. This takes longer but delivers that unmistakable authenticity many clients crave.
Whichever you choose, quality subfloor preparation is non-negotiable. Any unevenness or dampness will telegraph through your new floor over time. Our floor preparation service ensures both engineered and solid options have a stable base for years of trouble-free use.
Can engineered timber be refinished like solid boards?
This is a common concern for those seeking longevity. Engineered floors can indeed be sanded and refinished-though not as many times as solid timber due to their thinner top layer (usually 3-6mm). Most quality engineered products allow at least one or two professional resurfacings before reaching the core layer. Solid boards offer greater scope here; their thickness means several full sandings are possible over decades, making them ideal if you want flexibility for future updates.
Which option suits apartments versus houses?
Apartments across inner Melbourne often favour engineered boards because they’re lighter, compatible with underlays for sound insulation, and suitable for floating installation over concrete slabs. Houses-especially older weatherboard or brick homes-can accommodate either type but may lean towards solid timber when restoring heritage character or matching existing features. Always check strata rules before installing any new floor in an apartment block; some require specific acoustic ratings that engineered systems can meet more easily than traditional solid installations.
Is there a noticeable difference in appearance?
Modern engineered planks use genuine hardwood veneers so they look almost indistinguishable from solid equivalents once laid. The main visual difference comes down to board width options (engineered often comes wider) and edge profiles (micro-bevels versus square edges). Both can be stained, oiled, or lacquered to suit your décor. The real distinction is beneath the surface-in how each responds to daily life in Melbourne’s ever-changing environment.
How do I maintain each type?
Routine cleaning is similar: sweep regularly and use a barely damp mop as needed, avoiding excess water. For both types, felt pads on furniture legs help prevent scratches. Engineered floors generally need less maintenance thanks to their stable core; minor expansion/contraction won’t show gaps as easily as with solids. Solid floors may require occasional re-coating if exposed to heavy traffic or direct sunlight, especially in open-plan living spaces common throughout suburbs like Brunswick and South Yarra.
Refinishing intervals depend on wear-engineered planks allow limited resurfacings while solids offer more flexibility over time. Always follow manufacturer guidelines for cleaning products to protect your investment.
Can I install new boards over existing floors?
Engineered systems are well suited for overlaying old tiles or floorboards (provided they’re sound), making them popular for renovations where removing existing surfaces would create too much disruption or waste. Solid boards usually require a more substrate; laying them over uneven surfaces risks long-term movement issues. Regardless of choice, our team at RG Timber Floors always inspects the subfloor first to recommend the best approach for your property’s age and structure.
Which flooring is more sustainable?
Engineered products make efficient use of precious hardwood by using only a thin veneer on top of fast-growing core materials like plywood-reducing overall resource consumption per square metre installed. Many manufacturers now source certified timbers for both types, so it’s possible to find eco-friendly options whichever way you go. Ask about sustainability credentials if environmental impact is high on your agenda; responsible suppliers will have documentation ready.
How long does it take?
Installation timelines depend on several variables:
Site readiness: If your subfloor needs levelling or repairs, allow extra days before laying begins.
Product acclimation: Both engineered and solid timbers need time to adjust to indoor conditions before fitting-typically 2-7 days depending on seasonality in Melbourne.
Finishing requirements: Pre-finished engineered planks speed things up; site-sanded solid floors add days for sanding and coating between layers.
Generally speaking, an average-sized home can expect completion within one week (engineered) up to two weeks (solid), accounting for all preparation steps and drying times between coats if required.
Making your decision: A quick recap
Choosing between engineered timber flooring and solid timber flooring comes down to balancing tradition with practicality-and considering what fits best with your home’s construction, daily use patterns, budget, and style preferences around Melbourne’s unique conditions. Engineered suits busy households wanting resilience without sacrificing looks; solids appeal if you value heritage charm and maximum refinishing potential down the line.
For tailored advice based on your suburb’s typical building stock-from classic terraces near Carlton Gardens to sleek modern builds along the Yarra-speak directly with experienced professionals who understand local requirements inside out.
Ready for expert help selecting the right floor? Whether you’re renovating in central Melbourne or updating a family home near Brunswick, contact RG Timber Floors for honest advice and skilled installation that stands up to local conditions. For premium craftsmanship across all aspects of timber flooring-including supply, fitout, stairs, finishing services and more-visit RG Timber Floors today.
