Solid Oak:
It has been said that solid quality and aesthetics of the Oak cannot be beaten, working well with most tools and glues there are not many negatives. Oak flooring offers a highly durable composition, combined with great aesthetics, boasting a quality feel that is seen to improve with age by the time it starts to get old the quality of the material improves!
Additionally, oak is simple to treat, re-treat and sand out blemishes. Where cost is concerned, oak is usually more expensive than veneer however, Oak can also add value and appeal to your home.
It is worth bearing in mind, Oak is a hygroscopic substance which can be affected by humidity changes causing your floor to swell or shrink, which can result in shifts between the panels.
Oak Veneer:
Oak Veneer flooring is often seen as the affordable alternative to solid oak. Veneer is primarily, designed to give the illusion of solid oak but is manufactured with a layer usually thinner than 1/8 of an inch of hardwood and bonded to a manufactured surface such as High Density Fibreboard that is hidden below.
Veneer-wood floors modified composition effectively reduce the floor's natural movement. Since Veneer-wood floors have a cross-plied construction that counteracts movement, which makes the floor more consistent.
The veneer offers a cost-efficient alternative which is brilliant for use in busy households to enjoy the aesthetic of oak and the durability of veneer benefiting the authentic appeal of wood flooring without worrying about attention and upkeep.
The advantages and disadvantages of solid oak and veneer appear to be marginal with the main difference being cost. If the decision is cost-conscious veneer would be the obvious choice, maintaining durability and quality and creating the aesthetic of a solid oak floor, however, the quality of solid oak cannot be mistaken and additionally the cost of solid oak can see a return in the future adding value to your home. When flooring a smaller surface area where cost is going to be lower, Oak is a clear winner.