Those looking for a wooden floor quickly come down to two options: solid parquet and engineered parquet.
At first glance, they seem the same. Both have a wooden top layer and a warm appearance. Yet there is an important difference in construction, stability, and application.
In this article, we clearly explain the difference and which choice is often the most logical in Spain.
What is solid parquet?
Solid parquet consists entirely of one piece of wood. Each plank is made of solid wood, without layers.
Advantages:
- completely natural product
- can be sanded multiple times
- long lifespan
Disadvantages:
- sensitive to movement (shrinking and expanding)
- less suitable for temperature differences
- installation requires craftsmanship
What is engineered parquet?
Engineered parquet (also called multiplank) consists of multiple layers.
- top layer: real wood
- underlayers: made of cross-glued wood
This construction provides more stability.
Advantages:
- much more stable than solid wood
- better resistant to temperature differences
- suitable for gluing to the subfloor
- often suitable for underfloor heating
Disadvantages:
- less often needs sanding than solid parquet
- depending on the quality of the top layer
What is the main difference?
The biggest difference lies in stability.
- Solid parquet → reacts more strongly to temperature and moisture
- Engineered parquet → remains much more stable due to its construction
And that difference is important in Spain.
Which choice is better in Spain?
In the climate of the Costa Blanca, stability is essential.
Homes deal with:
- heat in summer
- cooler periods in winter
- fluctuating humidity
That is why we usually recommend:
engineered parquet
Solid parquet can, but only under the right conditions and with proper installation.
Can parquet be installed on an existing tile floor?
Yes, but only with the right preparation.
Tiles are often:
- not flat
- with joints
- different in height
That is why leveling is usually necessary to prevent problems.
What determines the final choice?
The right choice depends on:
- type of home (apartment, villa, new build)
- subfloor
- use of the space
- personal preference
Good advice prevents problems later on.
Both solid parquet and engineered parquet have their own characteristics. In Spain, it is important to look beyond just the appearance.
We are happy to assist you with advice and installation, so your wooden floor is not only beautiful but also remains stable.