Solid Hardwood, Engineered and Laminate Flooring - Hardwood over concrete subfloor; 3/8" or 1/2" thick?

Hi all. Once again, great forum. I am learning so much from all you good folks. I am going to put hardwood floors in my living room, dining room, and hallways, and maybe the kitchen (jury still out on that one).

I have read that since I have a concrete sub floor, I must use a hardwood floor that is either 3/8" thick or 1/2" thick, because a 3/4" hardwood requires a plywood sub floor. Is this correct?

If so, which is the better choice, 3/8" or 1/2", pros/cons? Also, is pre finished hardwood the way to go?

As long as it is an engineered cross-ply, it isn't going to matter. ½" is going to have the ability to have a thicker wear layer, allowing for a sanding, later down the road.


Even 3/8 solid will cup over concrete. All it takes is a good rain storm and your concrete will act like a sponge and emit more vapor emissions then when the floor was installed. Cup & buckle!!! :wall:

Thank you for the reply. So then, I am I correct in assuming that if I want Hardwood floor over my concrete subfloor, I need to get a 1/2" thick ENGINEERED Hardoowd Floor?

Let me be clearer.

½" engineered has the ability to have a thicker wear layer, but that doesn't mean all ½" has a thick wear layer. Do your research.