Both hardwood and laminate flooring are great choices for your home. They’re two of the most popular flooring options, and each offers its own advantages and drawbacks.
It’s important to consider the pros and cons of both hardwood flooring and laminate flooring when you’re renovating your home. In this article, we’ve compared hardwood vs. laminate in a range of categories to make your decision easier.
Cost
Generally, hardwood flooring is more expensive to purchase and install than laminate. The exact costs of each type of flooring depend on the species of wood used, the quality of the wood, and the price set by the company selling it.
To get an accurate cost of each option for your home, contact Nanaimo flooring installers, where a team of experts can measure your floor and calculate an exact purchase and installation price.
Durability
Although hardwood costs more initially, it tends to last longer than laminate flooring. Hardwood flooring is known for its high durability and longevity. If properly maintained, your hardwood panels can last decades without the need for replacement, and better yet, it’s easy to clean prefinished hardwood with simple techniques.
Laminate is still durable but tends to show signs of wear and tear more quickly than hardwood alternatives. It’s less suitable for moisture-prone areas of the home, such as kitchens and bathrooms, as it is susceptible to water damage.
Appearance and Aesthetics
Upon first glance, hardwood and laminate flooring look similar. However, you can tell the difference between the two when you take a closer look. There are subtle differences in their appearance that you should consider before purchasing either option.
Hardwood flooring has a sophisticated and timeless appearance that enhances the aesthetics of any room in the home. It has a warm tone and natural appearance, complementing most personal styles and home accessories.
Laminate also looks great and can enhance your home’s interior design. You can get laminate options that mimic hardwood, tiles, or natural stone, making it a versatile flooring choice. Although it lacks the same authenticity as real hardwood, it’s a cost-effective alternative that looks just as great upon installation.
Note that if you choose to install laminate flooring yourself, you will need to pay attention to the order in which you place the boards down on the floor. As laminate has a repeating pattern, it’s best to alternate the boards such that the edges of the boards in one row align with the center points of the boards in the adjacent row.
Environmental Considerations
If you’re an environmentally conscious individual and want the most eco-friendly flooring for your home, you may be better off choosing hardwood flooring over laminate. Generally, laminate is made from composite materials that aren’t as environmentally friendly as reclaimed or salvaged hardwood.
However, it’s important to check the individual specifications of each type of hardwood and laminate you’re considering. Check for certifications like FSC (Forest Stewardship Council), which indicates that the flooring has been sourced sustainably.
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