Laminate vs. Hardwood Flooring: Which Is Better?

Slippery, cool, dark, and handsome. What is it? Hardwood floors! But did you know the wood floors you might be standing on could actually be laminated floors?

What’s the difference and which is one is better? Read on for some pro tips on how to choose between laminate vs hardwood floors.

Pros and Cons of Laminate vs Hardwood Floor

Both laminate and hardwood floors have pros and cons. And which one is better for you depends entirely on your lifestyle and budget. Here are some factors to consider:

Appearance

In the earlier days, laminated floors ran the risk of developing creases and weird bumps when they were not made or installed properly. Thus, it was easier to tell them apart from hardwood floors.

However, due to better technology today, manufacturers have gotten better at designing prints that look more realistic, making it harder for most to tell the difference. Still, some would argue that there is nothing like the real thing.

Construction

Hardwood floors, as many of us already know, are made from real wood cut from harvested trees. Laminate floors, however, are made from composite wood that is then covered with a manufactured print that emulates real wood.

Price Point

Due to the difference in material and the manufacturing process, the price point between hardwood and laminate floors is quite different.

The price of hardwood floors can be a bit more or a lot more depending on how rare the type of wood you choose is. Laminate floors, on the hand, can be up to 50 percent less than hardwood floors. This is because not only is the material cheaper to make, but it also is easier to install.

Durability

Natural wood is more susceptible to wear and tear, such as scratches and fading from the sun. But in the long run, it is stronger and can take more damage. If well taken care of, a hardwood floor can last up to twenty-five years or a whole lifetime.

Laminated floors, on the other hand, do not hold damages as well. So, if you live in a household with heavy traffic, a laminated floor will most likely need to be replaced before you sell it if you want to maintain or increase your house value.

Repairs

Generally, hardwood floor is easier to fix than laminated floor because it can be sanded down or refinished easily.

If one part of your laminate floor is damaged, you have to replace that particular area with a whole new board. In the beginning, the new board might also stand out more from the rest because it’s newer and shinier.

The Bottom Line

The best way to go about picking laminate vs hardwood floor is to think about how much traffic your house gets. And, don’t forget: It’s not just feet. If you have kids, elderly parents, or pets at home, then think about chairs dragging, wheelchairs, and tiny paws as well.

And lastly, think about the amount of time you’ll be in the home. If it’s only for a few years, then perhaps laminate floor might be enough. But, if you plan on staying for a long time, then hardwood floors might be worth the investment.

For more advice on hardwood floors and flooring services, please visit our blog!

And, don’t forget: If you are interested in new laminate flooring or hardwood floors, call us. We offer a full menu of high-quality flooring services throughout Milwaukee, Racine, and northern Illinois! Contact us today by calling 262-653-1120 or filling out our online contact form.