Solid hardwood is milled from a single piece of wood — typically 3/4″ thick — and can be sanded and refinished multiple times over its lifetime. It is moisture-sensitive and is not recommended for below-grade (basement) or over-slab installations. Engineered hardwood has a real hardwood veneer layer bonded over multiple layers of cross-ply plywood or HDF core. The cross-ply construction resists expansion and contraction, making engineered wood more stable in Utah’s dry climate and suitable for over-radiant-heat and above-slab installations. Both products look identical once installed — only the subfloor and environmental performance differ.