Flooring is one of the most important interior elements that determines not only aesthetics but also the coziness of a home. Natural wood floors remain a popular choice, but buyers often face the question: should they choose parquet or engineered wood flooring? Let’s take a look at the differences and advantages.
What is parquet?
Parquet is flooring made from solid wood, consisting of small wooden blocks or strips. It is usually glued to the subfloor and then sanded and varnished after installation. Main features: durability – high-quality parquet can last up to 50 years; the ability to be renewed many times – sanding and revarnishing restore its original look; various patterns – from herringbone to complex geometric designs.
What is engineered wood flooring?
Engineered wood flooring consists of multiple layers – the top layer is made of noble wood, while the lower layers are plywood or particle board. It usually comes from the factory already varnished or oiled, which allows for fast and clean installation. Advantages: easy installation – often uses a “click” system; lower cost than solid parquet; greater resistance to moisture fluctuations due to its multilayer structure.
Main differences
Parquet is made from solid wood, while engineered wood flooring has a multilayer construction. Parquet is glued and finished on-site, whereas engineered boards are installed with a “click” system or glued but are prefinished at the factory. Parquet lifespan – 30–50 years or more, engineered flooring – 15–25 years. Parquet is generally more expensive, while engineered flooring is more affordable.
Which one to choose?
It all depends on your needs and budget. If you’re looking for longevity, prestige, and natural authenticity, parquet is the right choice. However, if you value quick installation, convenience, and affordability, engineered wood flooring is the better option.
In short: parquet is a long-term investment, while engineered wood flooring is a practical and quick solution.
