Engineered products are generally used below grade (read: below the main floors, like in the basement). Engineered wood flooring is typically installed over a concrete subfloor.
Solid woods are used above grade.
The cost for engineered flooring is usually higher than a solid wood. It’s manufactured by using a cross-directional laminated construction in 3 to 5 layers of wood. The top layer is premium hardwood.
This manufacturing process counteracts the natural tendency of wood to expand and contract with seasonal changes in temperature and humidity.
Engineered products are available in planks or strips. Solid wood products are manufactured from solid pieces of wood and are available in planks, strips or parquet.