Laminate vs. Hardwood Flooring: Pros and Cons of Each Option!

It is not easy to decide on the type of flooring to install in your house. Choosing between laminate flooring vs hardwood flooring is a common dilemma in most homes.

Laminate flooring is an artificial product with a top layer being an image of real wooden flooring. Its structure includes a fiberboard base, a printed pattern that looks like wood, and a transparent veneer. They commonly come in thicknesses of between 6mm to about 12mm.

Hardwood flooring is a type of flooring that is produced from actual wood or material that comes from a tree, including softwoods like pine and actual hardwoods like oak. It can be pre-finished or site-finished using stain and a coating of its choice.

Appearance and Comfort

One has to note that if laminate flooring is compared with hardwood, then it is the latter that has the advantage of looks. As much as laminate tries to mimic it, nothing quite compares to the grain and feel of real wood. One more advantage of hardwood flooring is that it is a genuine natural material that provides depth. But now laminate flooring has evolved in terms of looks and it can easily be mistaken for genuine hardwood ones from a distance.

Laminate flooring vs engineered hardwood has a clear winner. Laminate can also feature a cushioned foam backing, which offers more comfort when stepped on. Hardwood is also smooth and feels quite solid compared to carpeting; it can be uncomfortable on the feet and that is why area rugs are advised.

Maintenance and Care

Laminate flooring is quite sensitive to water and should be avoided from being exposed to water. Cleaning is done by using a dry or very slightly wet mop. Laminate flooring, on the other hand, is susceptible to damage and once it is scratched or worn out, then it has to be replaced.

Contrary to the laminate flooring, the hardwood flooring is also vulnerable to moisture but it can be sanded and refinished in case it gets scratched or worn out. It also involves dry or slightly damp cleaning procedures such as mopping or sweeping the floor using a broom. Refinishing hardwood floors can help to prolong their usage and get the floor looking as it was when new.

Lifespan

The durability of hardwoods may also surpass that of laminate wood floors when one decides to compare hardwood and laminate wood floorings. Hardwood floors are durable and can be expected to last anywhere between 20 to 100 years depending on the type of treatment given to them. Laminate flooring, however, endures for 15 and 25 years on average. Even though some manufacturers offer warranties for up to 30 years, laminates are still not as durable as real hardwood.

Laminate vs Hardwood Flooring Cost

Laminate flooring vs hardwood price is another important consideration for most homeowners. Laminate is less costly than hardwood, particularly for the material and the cost of putting it down. On the other hand, the installation of hardwood floors may require professional assistance and is generally more costly due to the cost of the material and the kind of tools used.

Water, Heat, and Environment

Laminate is somewhat resistant to moisture and can be used with underfloor heating systems but is not to be used in places with high humidity like the bathroom. This type of floor covering is not suited for use under floor heating and leads to numerous problems such as checking and warping of the wood.

Resale Value

When it comes to comparing the two, specifically with the aspect of resale value in mind, it is often seen that hardwood has the upper hand. Hardwood is considered as a more expensive material than laminate and can increase the value of your home. Laminate is another popular flooring that is more affordable than hardwood; however, it provides less value than hardwood in most cases.

Conclusion

Compared to laminate flooring, engineered hardwood is more affordable and easier to install, which is perfect if you are trying to save money. However, if the aspects of durability, beauty, and the prospect of a better resale value are valued more, then choosing a hardwood floor would be more advisable.