The Difference Between Solid Wood and Engineered Wood for Stairs and Stair Parts

When planning or updating your staircase, one of the most common questions we hear at NuStair is: Should I choose solid wood or engineered wood? While both materials have their place in home design, they perform very differently, especially when it comes to stairs.

What is the Definition of “Solid Wood?”

Solid wood stair components – like treads and risers – are crafted from a single piece of hardwood, such as oak, maple, or hickory.

At NuStair, this is our specialty. We focus on solid hardwood stair systems because they’re built to handle the daily wear and tear that stairs naturally experience.

Solid wood offers:

• Long-term durability in high-traffic areas
• The ability to be sanded and refinished multiple times
• A natural, authentic look with unique grain patterns

Because stair treads take more impact than flooring, having a thick, solid material underfoot makes a real difference over time.

What Is Engineered Wood?

Engineered wood is made by bonding a thin layer of real hardwood over a core of plywood or fiberboard. This construction helps reduce movement caused by humidity and temperature changes, which is why engineered wood is commonly used in flooring.

In stair applications, engineered components are sometimes used for specific parts, such as handrails, where added stability can be beneficial. However, for stair treads – the surface that sees the most foot traffic – the thinner top layer can limit how the material performs long term.

Why Solid Wood Is Usually the Better Choice for Stairs

While engineered wood has advantages in certain situations, stairs are a unique part of the home. They’re not just decorative; they’re structural and heavily used every single day.

That’s why NuStair focuses on solid hardwood for treads and risers. It provides:

• Strength you can feel underfoot
• Longevity that holds up for decades
• The flexibility to refinish instead of replace

In other words, it’s not just about how your stairs look today; it’s about how they perform years down the road.

Let NuStair Guide Your Project

Choosing the right material for your staircase doesn’t have to be complicated. At NuStair, we help homeowners find solutions that balance beauty, durability, and long-term value. If you’re considering updating your stairs, our team is here to help you explore your options and design a staircase that fits your home and stands the test of time. Contact NuStair today to get started!