Laminate vs. Hardwood: Which Is the Right Flooring for Your Home?
No matter the style of your home, the flooring is a very essential part of your home’s aesthetic, it’s pretty much the foundation of your element of design.
Thankfully, there are a variety of options to choose from for those who are looking to replace their flooring, and for many, the battle is laminate vs hardwood.
Though similar, they each have their pros and cons, and we’ll be covering those here now.
Thankfully, there are a variety of options to choose from for those who are looking to replace their flooring, and for many, the battle is laminate vs hardwood.
Though similar, they each have their pros and cons, and we’ll be covering those here now.
Solid Hardwood vs. Laminate Flooring: Major Differences
Today there are many styles and variations of laminate flooring than ever before. Laminate floors are engineered to resemble natural materials like hardwood flooring, stone, etc.
Due to its durability, versatility, and affordability, laminate flooring remains a popular alternative to the other real materials it mimics. It also continues to progress in appearance, quality, and variety.
Laminate has UV protection, and is scratch resistant, unlike hardwood. It works well with high traffic and sun-drenched areas.
Hardwood ages faster than laminate, it’s more reactive to sunlight and is more sensitive to furniture, high-heeled shoes, kids, and pets, which can scratch and dent the wood.
Laminate also costs half as much as hardwood. However, before you opt for the cheapest laminate, remember the old age “you get what you pay for” usually the less it cost, the less quality you’re going to receive.
The installation costs are also more affordable than that of hardwood.
Due to its durability, versatility, and affordability, laminate flooring remains a popular alternative to the other real materials it mimics. It also continues to progress in appearance, quality, and variety.
Laminate has UV protection, and is scratch resistant, unlike hardwood. It works well with high traffic and sun-drenched areas.
Hardwood ages faster than laminate, it’s more reactive to sunlight and is more sensitive to furniture, high-heeled shoes, kids, and pets, which can scratch and dent the wood.
Laminate also costs half as much as hardwood. However, before you opt for the cheapest laminate, remember the old age “you get what you pay for” usually the less it cost, the less quality you’re going to receive.
The installation costs are also more affordable than that of hardwood.
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Appearance
Solid hardwood holds a lot of appeal for those who are interested in sustaining the environment. In recent years, it’s also been popular to use reclaimed wood when remodeling or building a home, which gives the home a rustic feel.
A high quality laminate can look as real as solid wood. The image layer will feature details so precise that it’ll appear as though it’s been hand carved. Hardwood has a natural, beautiful texture that’s appealing to homebuyers. You can select from different wood, stains, and finishes that provide a myriad of options. Hardwood can also scratch easily and can discolor if exposed to the sun for too long. Laminate won't scratch as easily as hardwood and its appearance won’t change much over time. Water and Heat Resistance
Traditionally laminates hasn’t been known to stand up to water damage and humidity well, however, there are modern versions today that are engineered to withstand water for long periods of time; better than hardwoods.
Hardwood floors will ruin if they’re exposed to excessive moisture and will wear over time in high-traffic areas. Wood flooring requires more maintenance than laminates, and isn’t as resistant to certain elements as laminate. Care and Cleaning
Some laminate flooring pros are that care and cleaning is a lot easier than that of hardwoods.
When it comes to flooring pros and cons, cleaning is definitely a factor to consider and laminate takes the win on this one. Hardwood floors require delicate cleaning, and appropriate products, and should be cleaned more regularly than what’s necessary for laminate. Hardwood floors today have a polyurethane varnish sealant and should never be polished or waxed. Durability and Maintenance
Hardwood can last a lifetime or longer. However, circumstances like floods can ruin the hardwood. Wood flooring will likely need to be refinished or recoated over time depending on the level of wear and tear. A periodic resealing is recommended.
High-quality laminate can last about 10 years. Hazards like scratches, UV rays, or water damage can shorten lifespan, but quality laminate flooring can hold up strong for many years with proper care and maintenance. Hardwood is the winner when it comes to durability. Installation and costs
It’s difficult for nonprofessionals to install hardwood as it requires special tools and expertise. Flooring that’s unfitted must be sanded and finished once the planks have been installed; which is a Job for professionals.
Laminate wood flooring is easy to install. You can simply click the plank edges together. You don’t need glue or fasteners as this material floats over the foam underlayment. Laminate wins when it comes to installation. Lifespan
Solid hardwood floors can last 100 years with adequate refinishing and care.
Laminate floors’ lifespan averages from 15 to 25 years. Laminate has a considerably shorter life than hardwood. Hardwood can be refinished several times before a replacement is necessary. Resale Value
Hardwood floors always add value to real estate. If it’s in good shape it competes with high-quality porcelain or natural stone.
It’s rare for laminate to add real estate value, although it’s better than a vinyl floor or shabby carpet. Comfort and Sound
Hardwood floors can be hard under your feet, and noisy under pet toenails and heeled shoes.
Laminate floors are generally softer underfoot since they’re installed atop a foam underlayment. However, as a floating floor it may flex underfoot if the subfloor isn’t perfectly flat. Laminate is probably best for comfort and sound. |
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