Verdict: Laminate flooring is generally better when it comes to moisture and heat resistance, but it shouldn’t be your first choice for places like the bathroom or laundry room. But if you prefer real wood and want water and heat resistant flooring, you can have your hardwood flooring modified to resist moisture and heat. Maintenance and Repairs
Full Answer
What is the best laminate flooring to buy?
What To Look For In A Laminate Flooring Brand
- Material Quality. The number one factor that you want to consider when purchasing laminate flooring is the quality of the materials used to create the planks and the underlay.
- Consistent Installation Processes. ...
- Durability. ...
- Warranty. ...
What is the difference between hardwood and laminate flooring?
The Difference Between Hardwood and Laminate Hardwood flooring is made of 100% wood, whereas laminate is made of fiberboard with a photographic pattern placed on top. The layers are fused together under a clear protective layer that adds durability and moisture protection.
Is laminate flooring the same as wood flooring?
Real wood floors will scratch so that is something to consider if you have pets and children etc. I do like porcelain wood- look tiles very much but you do have grout to contend with and upkeep. Laminate flooring is resistant to many of the outdoor agents that can discolor other flooring materials.
What is the best laminate flooring company?
- Focus on hard surfaces: Hardwoodbargains.com specializes in solid hardwood, engineered hardwood, laminate and vinyl-plank flooring. ...
- Personal attention: Each consumer is assigned a specialist who helps them select the right flooring choice, and then walks them through every step of the process. ...
- Samples: Samples are free and shipped through FedEx.
What are the disadvantages of laminate flooring?
THE DISADVANTAGES OF LAMINATE FLOORINGCannot be refinished. One popular function of natural timber flooring is that it can be sanded back and refinished to renew its appearance over the years. ... Not moisture-proof. Being made of wood, laminate flooring is not impervious to the effects of moisture.
What lasts longer hardwood or laminate?
Hardwood comes with a higher price tag, but they are easier to repair and last longer than laminate. Laminate flooring pros and cons include that it doesn't fade or scratch as easily as hardwood, but repairs may involve redoing the whole floor.
Which one is better hardwood or laminate flooring?
Best for Durability and Maintenance: Solid Hardwood Hardwood floors come out well on top when it comes to durability. Hardwood and laminate are roughly equal when it comes to maintenance.
Which is better engineered wood or laminate?
Bottom Line. For a floor covering that looks exactly like solid hardwood, but is easier to maintain, engineered flooring is your best choice. If you are looking to save money on your floor covering, laminate flooring is a better choice than engineered hardwood flooring, especially when coupled with self-installation.
Is it OK to mop laminate floors?
To keep your laminate floors fresh, mop them every two months. Damp mops (a.k.a. microfiber mops) are gentle enough to use on laminate floors. If you're going to use a regular mop, just wring it out until it's almost completely dry.
Can laminate look as good as wood?
In this respect, when choosing between solid wood or laminate flooring, laminate is massively outshone by wood flooring. Although it is more durable, laminate is not as visually appealing; in particular the cheaper ranges which may have artificial-looking wood grain textures.
Should I replace hardwood with laminate?
Laminate is a popular choice for homeowners because it's generally less expensive than real wood and easier to install. With so many options, you should be able to choose exactly what you want such as plank thickness, texture, and color.
Does laminate flooring lower value of home?
In high-traffic areas it can show wear and tear, and laminate can't be sanded or refinished for an updated appearance. Because of its lower price point, laminate also won't do much for your home's resale value.
Does laminate look cheap?
Laminate flooring can run about half the price of wood flooring but, as with wood, you'll find a range of varying quality. Some look more realistic than others, and some are less substantial in the thickness of the different layers, making them more likely to wear out sooner than a higher-quality product.
How long does laminate floor last?
Laminate Flooring Lifespan: 10-15 years for low quality tile and installation; 20-30 years for high quality with proper installation.
Which is more expensive laminate or engineered hardwood?
Laminate flooring is more affordable than engineered hardwood. Laminate floors don't typically cost as much to purchase as engineered hardwood products. Almost all of the materials used in laminate flooring are man-made or simply remanufactured.
What is the price difference between hardwood and laminate?
Comparison chartHardwood FloorLaminate FloorCostGenerally, the harder the hardwood, the more expensive it is, but also the more durable it is. Including labor expenses for installation, most hardwood floors cost between $8 and $15 per square foot.$3 to $11 per square foot, including cost of installation.10 more rows
What is the difference between laminate and hardwood floors?
Hardwood comes from trees like maple, hickory, and oak. On the other hand, laminate floors are made from synthetic material from wood byproducts. The material can mimic wooden floors. There are two types of hardwood flooring: engineered and solid wood floors. Solid hardwood is a combination of both plywood and solid wood on the upper side.
Which is better for a kitchen: laminate or hardwood?
You should consider your budget as the primary factor when choosing. The area you want to install the floor will also determine your choice. For kitchens, laminates would do a better job because they are water-resistant. However, if elegance and warmth are your highest bid, hardwood flooring will do.
What are the layers of laminate flooring?
Laminate flooring is made up of 3 layers: 1 Wood byproduct: in most cases, the material is plywood 2 Wood-like design: over the first layer, there is a design that mimics wood 3 Clear or photographic layer: this part is transparent and wear-resistant. It makes the wood-like design visible and protects the material from abrasions and scratches.
How much does hardwood flooring cost?
The price of hardwood floors ranges between $7 and $10 per square foot, inclusive of the installation cost. However, with its elegance and durability, the material is worth every penny. The cost of wood flooring material depends on the type of tree used.
What is the coolest flooring material?
Hardwood Appearance. Hardwood floors are arguably the coolest flooring material in appearance. The material comes in natural colors, and you can choose from various options, depending on your preferred color. However, it is essential to note that the prices of different types of hardwood differ.
What is laminate flooring made of?
Laminate flooring is made up of 3 layers: Wood byproduct: in most cases, the material is plywood. Wood-like design: over the first layer, there is a design that mimics wood. Clear or photographic layer: this part is transparent and wear-resistant.
How thick is a hardwood floor?
Hardwood flooring, as the name suggests, comes from wood. The standard thickness of the wood planks is ¾ to 1 inch. However, the length and width vary depending on the patterns you want to achieve.
What is the difference between laminate and hardwood flooring?
Laminate flooring differs from hardwood in both construction and appearance. Laminate is predominantly human-made while hardwood floors are made of actual wood. Laminate has a wider selection of finishes, mimicking natural floors such as hardwood or having bright patterns and colorful designs.
What are the benefits of laminate flooring?
The benefits of laminate are its cost-effectiveness, water resistance and ease of cleaning. Hardwood’s unmistakable appearance, longevity and ability to increase property value also make it an attractive choice.
What is the best flooring for a living room?
Living Room Flooring. Hardwood is a great choice for living rooms. The living room is usually the biggest, most-used room in the home, so if you’re going to spend money anywhere, it’s here. Hardwood adds character. It’s attractive, comfortable to walk on and its one of the first things your guests see.
What is the best floor for a kitchen?
Kitchen Flooring. For kitchens, hardwood makes the best floor. If properly sealed, it’s durable, warm, and beautiful. It’s also easy to keep clean and is less slippery than laminate. Just be sure to wipe away spills quickly.
What is hardwood flooring?
Hardwood is harvested from mature trees. It’s then milled and sanded and either stained and finished in the factory or installed unfinished, then stained and sealed. There are many popular types of hardwood flooring that range in color from the pale blonde of white oak to the deep brown-black of ebony.
How much does hardwood flooring cost?
Hardwood flooring costs between $6 and $12 per square foot without installation. Exotic woods cost more than domestic. The stronger the wood, the more expensive it is. Costs extra to finish, treat and wax the floor.
Which has a higher resale value, laminate or wood?
Hardwood, on the other hand, brings a sense of warmth and luxury that cannot be matched by synthetic materials and, if cared for properly, has a higher resale value and longer lifespan than laminate.
What is laminate flooring?
Laminate flooring is a fully man-made material that consists of several layers. The base is fiberboard, with a photographic image layer bonded over the top. Then, a transparent wear layer is applied to protect the surface.
How long does engineered wood flooring last?
With a lifespan of 30 years or more and the ability to be sanded down and refinished, engineered wood flooring holds a decided advantage over laminate flooring when it comes to lifespan.
What is the easiest flooring to install?
Laminate. Laminate flooring is one of the easiest flooring materials to install, which makes it a favorite of DIYers. The planks are engineered with a unique "click-lock" edge treatment in which the edges of the planks interlock and "float" over a layer of foam underlayment spread over the subfloor.
How many times can you refinish engineered hardwood?
Engineered hardwood flooring can be sanded and refinished at least once, and if the flooring has a particularly thick veneer layer, you may even be able to refinish it two or three times .
How much does it cost to install engineered wood flooring?
Engineered wood flooring typically starts at about $4.50 per square foot, but the average is more like $8 per square foot. And with an engineered wood floor, there is often the added cost of professional installation, which can bring the cost up to the $15 to $20 per square foot range. With laminates, on the other hand, ...
What is the best material for wet areas?
For frequently wet locations, ceramic tile or luxury vinyl are much better choices.
Is engineered wood laminate or laminate?
It can, however, feel a little harder underfoot since it is usually not installed with the same foam underlayment used with laminate flooring.
Hardwood vs. Laminate Flooring: Pros and Cons
Here are some of the key points you should know when choosing between laminate flooring and hardwood flooring.
Choosing Your Flooring Based on Different Factors
There’s no right or wrong answer when choosing the types of flooring to get for your home. However, it’s best to consider several factors to understand the implications of buying either. That way, you can weigh out every major difference and see which one is the best option for you in the long run. Here are the factors you need to consider.
Visit Zothex Flooring for High Quality Flooring
There’s no wrong answer when choosing between laminate flooring and hardwood flooring. Your decision ultimately comes down to your preference: if you want real-looking wood that can last you a lifetime and withstand years of wear and tear, hardwood flooring is the better option.
Appearance
When it comes to tying in the decor of your rooms, the types of flooring you choose make a big difference.
Cost-Effectiveness
Your budget and what different types of floors cost might be the polar opposite. If your budget is on the lower end consider cost-effectiveness.
Durability
When looking at types of flooring, work out the traffic load for each room. The higher the usage, the more wear, and tear there will be on your floors. Having a more durable surface will be easier to take care of and keep looking good well into the future.
Repairs
Over time you'll likely need to make some repairs to your flooring. This could be excessive wear and tear or due to an accident. Either way, you need flooring that's easy to repair.
Rooms That Suit Laminate or Hardwood
To help your decision, also consider the rooms of your house. The characteristics above should give you an idea of what each flooring is good at. To get the best results, you want to match the flooring, to the room's function.
Laminate Flooring vs Hardwood: Know Your Needs
So, there you have it! Now you know the pros and cons of laminate flooring vs hardwood, you'll know what's right for you.
Hardwood Flooring Vs Laminate: 7 Differences To Note Down
Before you learn about the differences, note that hardwood is an organic flooring product while laminate is a synthetic flooring option. So this is the very difference to note down.
1. Durability
The primary concern of most buyers is to find a durable flooring option. While comparing hardwood and laminate, it is difficult to say which one is durable. Actually, both are durable and long-lasting. But from all aspects, laminate flooring is more durable than hardwood. However, the life of hardwood flooring is generally more than laminate.
2. Appearance
Hardwood flooring has been very popular mostly because of its exotic look. With the natural grains, streaks, and scrapes, hardwood flooring has a unique appearance that is irreplaceable. Also, different wood species show different flooring colors and textures making hardwood a versatile flooring choice.
3. Affordability
If you talk about the cost, laminate is cheaper than hardwood flooring. Laminate is made synthetically in the factory and the raw materials are really cheap. Also, real wood is not used in laminate flooring. Only a wood-like image is pressed and laminated. And the entire process is not costly.
4. Moisture Resistance
Moisture or water resistance becomes a huge factor while installing hardwood flooring in damp spaces. If the natural condition of the space is damp, laminate is surely a better option than hardwood. In fact, in places like washrooms and kitchens, laminate should be prioritized.
5. Maintenance
Maintaining flooring includes cleaning, sealing, polishing, and keeping the condition of the floor intact and shiny. Now in terms of maintenance, both hardwood and laminates have their pitfalls and benefits.
6. Installation
If you want to install the flooring by yourself, laminate is the right choice for you. With its click and lock system, you can install the laminate flooring. The same option comes with hardwood flooring as well. But if you decide to nail or glue down the flooring, you would face difficulty. It requires expertise to install these methods.
What is the difference between engineered wood and solid hardwood?
The ultimate in luxury flooring: solid hardwood. The difference between engineered wood flooring and solid hardwood flooring is in the composition of the boards. With solid hardwood flooring, it’s hardwood all the way through rather than a hardwood veneer, even if it’s prefinished.
Why do people use vinyl flooring?
With simple chores like vacuuming or sweeping and mopping, you can keep your floors looking great. If there’s a spill, all you have to do is wipe it up. It’s the perfect option for families with children or pets.
How often can you refinish engineered wood flooring?
A solid wood floor can be resanded and refinished several times in its lifetime, while engineered wood flooring can accommodate this only once or twice .
How much does engineered wood cost per square foot?
A huge benefit of engineered wood flooring is the cost in comparison to solid hardwood. For materials, you’ll wind up spending between $2.50 and $10 per square foot , depending on the quality and thickness of the veneer.
How long is a warranty on vinyl flooring?
Another great part about this flooring option is that it typically includes a warranty. Depending on the manufacturer, you could have anywhere from a 5- to 20-year warranty — or longer. The best part about vinyl flooring is that the pieces themselves are completely waterproof.
Is engineered wood real wood?
It’s important to note that engineered wood flooring is in fact real hardwood. It’s made of a thin layer of wood veneer on top of layers of lower-grade wood. With the veneer glued to the top, you can have the look of your favorite hardwood for a lower price.
How much does it cost to install wood flooring?
For installation, you should budget about $4 to $8 per square foot.
What kind of wood is used in laminate flooring?
Nearly every color, species and variety of natural wood and stone flooring can be found in laminate flooring: Hand-scraped, rustic, reclaimed wood, multi-tonal, natural finish, whitewashed, multi-length and much more.
What is the top layer of a laminate floor?
A thick core layer forms the majority of the flooring, and at the bottom is a soft foam layer.
What is the third layer of a laminate?
The final, and lowest layer, is soft foam or, with some laminates, a backer paper layer.
Does fiberboard flooring soak up water?
Water that is allowed to pool on the surface—near open seams or the edges—can work its way below and into the core. The core will soak up the water. After drying, the core will not return to its original dimensions. Laminate flooring’s high-density fiberboard core is generally unaffected by heat.
Is vinyl flooring waterproof?
Vinyl flooring is entirely waterproof, from the top to the bottom and all edges. Vinyl flooring soaked in water can be dried out and it will retain its dimensions and appearance. Vinyl flooring, just like any other plastic, can be affected by heat.
Can laminate flooring be cut?
All laminate floors are floating floors. Like vinyl flooring, planks attach side-to-side. The weight and friction of the floor prevents it from shifting. Also like vinyl flooring, laminate flooring can easily be cut by scoring it with a utility knife and snapping it off.
Can you glue vinyl flooring to a subfloor?
It can be glued to the subfloor or it can be loose-laid. Glued vinyl flooring comes in the form of tiles or planks that are glued with liquid adhesive or with self-stick adhesive backing. Loose-lay vinyl flooring is also called a floating floor: Planks attach side-to-side, but not to the subfloor.
Solid Hardwood vs. Laminate Flooring: Major Differences
Water and Heat Resistance
- Solid Hardwood
Although popular in kitchens, solid hardwood is not recommendedfor wet areas, either. Solid hardwood flooring can be damaged by standing water and floods, and even installation against concrete slabs is frowned up (engineered hardwood flooring is a better choice in these situation… - Laminate
Laminate surfaces are highly water- and stain-resistant, but water getting into the joints between planks can cause the edges and the fiberboard core to swell and chip. It is not recommended in wet areas, such as bathrooms. Laminate flooring has enough heat resistance that it can be insta…
Care and Cleaning
- Solid Hardwood
Cleaning of a solid hardwood flooris simple: sweeping or vacuuming, and damp-mopping with a wood cleaner. Today's wood floors are sealed with polyurethane varnish, and they should never be polished or waxed. - Laminate
Laminate floors are easily cleanedwith a vacuum or broom. Mopping should be done with a damp mop moistened with a laminate floor cleaner. No waxing is ever necessary. Avoid excessive water and never clean with a steam cleaner.
Durability and Maintenance
- Solid Hardwood
Hardwood flooring can last a lifetime—or even longer. Unusual circumstances, though, like flooding, can render a hardwood floor worthless if rescue attempts come too late. Hardwood likely will need to be recoated or refinished periodically, depending on wear and care. Periodic re… - Laminate
Laminate flooring has moderately good resistance to damage from impact. If an object is heavy enough and hits laminate with sufficient force, the floor will be gouged or dented. Expect 10 years of use, maximum. Hazards that shorten the lifespan of laminate include water infiltration, scratc…
Installation
- Solid Hardwood
Solid hardwood is difficult for non-professionals to install. Rental of special tools such as a floor nailer or stapler is required. Unfinished flooring must be sanded and finished after the planks are installed; the sanding and finishing is a job for professionals. Prefinished hardwood flooring doe… - Laminate
Laminate flooring is very easy to install, making it a favorite for DIYers. The planks click together at the edges, and there is no need for fasteners or glue since this is a flooring that floats over a thin layer of foam underlayment. While laminate flooring can be installed below grade, it is still n…
Cost
- Solid Hardwood
The range for solid hardwood flooring is $4 to $8 per square foot. Common hardwoods like oak, maple, and ash go for $4 to $7 per square foot, with more unique species commanding higher prices. Wider-format plank flooring of the same species and narrower flooring of unique specie… - Laminate
Laminate flooringtypically costs $1 to $3 per square foot. Designer flooring selling for as much as $10 to $12 per square foot is also available. Thicker wear layers are what distinguish the better, more expensive products.
Lifespan
- Solid Hardwood
Solid hardwood floors can routinely last 100 years with proper care and refinishing.2 - Laminate
Laminate floors average about 15 to 25 years of life.3
Sizes
- Solid Hardwood
Solid hardwood flooring is typically sold in 1 1/2-inch or 2 1/4-inch-wide boards that are 48 inches long, though wide-plank forms up to 6 inches wide or more are also available. The boards are almost always 3/4 inch thick. - Laminate
Laminate flooring generally comes in planks 4 inches wide or more and about 48 inches long. The thickness of the planks ranges from 6 to 12 mm, depending on the quality of the product.
Resale Value
- Solid Hardwood
Hardwood flooring nearly always adds real good estate valueif it is in decent shape. It ranks with high-quality porcelain or natural stone tile as a premium flooring material. - Laminate
Laminate flooring rarely adds real estate value to a home, although it is certainly better than a shabby carpet or vinyl floor.
Laminate vs. Engineered Wood Flooring
Appearance
- Laminate
Laminate flooring, while it has become better at mimicking wood and other materials, will always come up short as a replica of wood. But top-quality laminates now have a richer, deeper embossing of simulated wood grain textures, giving the flooring a much more realistic feel. Thic… - Engineered Wood
The biggest advantage that engineered hardwood flooring holds over laminate flooring is that its surface is real hardwood. It will always look better than laminate, especially close-up.
Water and Heat Resistance
- Laminate
While some types of laminate are advertised as "water-resistant," this flooring material has a core layer of fiberboard that can be damaged if water seeps through the many cracks between boards. However, the plastic surface layer is impervious to water, provided moisture is mopped up imme… - Engineered Wood
Engineered wood flooring is usually finished with a very tough, waterproof surface sealer, but both the surface veneer and the plywood base layers are wood, which can swell and warp if they get wet.
Durability and Maintenance
- Laminate
Of the two flooring materials, laminate flooring is somewhat easier to care for, since the surface layer is plastic and can easily be wiped clean. However, laminate flooring cannot be refinished; when the flooring becomes badly marred, it must be removed and replaced. - Engineered Wood
Engineered hardwood flooring can be sanded and refinished at least once, and if the flooring has a particularly thick veneer layer, you may even be able to refinish it two or three times.
Installation
- Laminate
Laminate flooring is one of the easiest flooring materials to install, which makes it a favorite of DIYers. The planks are engineered with a unique "click-lock" edge treatment in which the edges of the planks interlock and "float" over a layer of foam underlayment spread over the subfloor. Mos… - Engineered Wood
Engineered hardwood floors, while often easier to install than solid hardwood, is more likely to require professional installation. These floors are often installed in the same manner as solid hardwood, by blind-nailing them to the subfloor with finish nails or staples driven at an angle thr…
Cost
- Laminate
Here, laminate flooring holds a big advantage, since it is one of the most affordable of all flooring materials. Laminate flooring can be purchased for $1 to $3 per square foot at big-box home improvement centers (although it's possible to spend $10 to $12 per square foot on designer sty… - Engineered Wood
Engineered wood flooring typically starts at about $4.50 per square foot, but the average is more like $8 per square foot. And with an engineered wood floor, there is often the added cost of professional installation, which can bring the cost up to the $15 to $20 per square foot range. Wi…
Lifespan
- Laminate
Laminate flooring is regarded as a 10- to 20-year flooring material, depending on the original quality of the material and how much wear it received. - Engineered Wood
Engineered wood flooring is more durable, with a lifespan that can easily run 30 years or sometimes much longer.
Sizes
- Laminate
Laminate flooring planks are usually 3 to 7 inches wide and about 48 inches long. - Engineered Wood
Engineered flooring boards can be as narrow as 2 1/4 inches or as wide as 7 inches, with lengths that can generally range from 36 to 48 inches. Some styles of engineered wood flooring are designed to be assembled with random board widths.
Resale Value
- Laminate
Laminate flooring will sometimes compromise a home's value, but very high-end laminate flooring is by no means a drawback when it comes to marketing a home; it offers better resale value than carpet or vinyl. But it will never be viewed as favorably as any form of genuine wood. - Engineered Wood
Generally speaking, engineered hardwood offers greater resale value to a home than does laminate flooring. Engineered wood may even rival solid hardwood for prestige, though knowledgeable home-buyers will recognize that it does not have the longevity that solid hardwo…
Comfort and Sound
- Laminate
Both engineered wood and laminate flooring is comfortable underfoot, but because laminate flooring typically "floats" over the subfloor, it may flex a bit underfoot, especially if the underlayment is not perfectly smooth and flat. Some homeowners also find that heels and pet n… - Engineered Wood
Engineered hardwood is a thicker flooring and is typically nailed or glued down, so it does not have the problem with flexing. It can, however, feel a little harder underfoot since it is usually not installed with the same foam underlayment used with laminate flooring