Engineered vs solid hardwood — what actually works in Chicago

Why this matters in Chicago specifically

The shoreline + Lake Michigan effect means summer humidity hits 70–80% RH for weeks, then drops to under 25% indoors during heating season. Solid hardwood expands and contracts with that swing — about 1/8" per 5 feet of board width. Over a 20-foot living room, that's 1/2" of seasonal movement.

What engineered does differently

Engineered hardwood is a 3–7 layer plywood sandwich with a real hardwood wear layer on top. The cross-grain construction prevents most of that expansion. In a 20-foot run, you might see 1/16" of total movement — basically invisible.

When solid still wins

• Historic restoration where existing floor is solid and you want to match
• Sand-and-refinish potential beyond 2 cycles (engineered with 4mm+ wear layer matches that)
• Some traditional species (Brazilian walnut, mesquite) only sold solid

Brands we stock in both

Talk to us first

Every Chicago install is different — subfloor, radiant heat, slab vs joist, exterior wall exposure. Call (847) 233-6300 with photos of the room — we'll spec it in 10 minutes.