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  • Hardwood floors have been an intrinsic part of decorating for generations. Although solid and durable, wood flooring is expensive and difficult to install. Laminate flooring is much less expensive, and many homeowners are able to perform the installation themselves. Both types of flooring have pros and cons.

    Look and Feel

    Laminate flooring is engineered from fiberboard with a photo of hardwood pressed on top. The piece is then coated in melamine. Early laminate floors did not look very realistic, but advances in technology have vastly improved the look. If you spend a lot of time walking barefoot on your floors, you will feel the difference between laminate and hardwood. Real hardwood has endless variations in the wood grain, while laminate installations tend to repeat a few basic patterns. The look of laminate can be vastly improved by varying the board layout throughout the floor.

    Durability and Moisture Resistance

    Real wood flooring is highly susceptible to moisture damage. It can be difficult to maintain in humid climates, and is not recommended for installation in kitchens or bathrooms. Hardwood is also prone to scratching and denting, and may fade in direct sunlight. Hardwood can be refinished to look like new. Laminate flooring is highly durable. It is not prone to fading or scratching, and is generally moisture-resistant. Laminate can be chipped, and is virtually impossible to refinish. Depending on the particular laminate floor you have, you may be able to replace a few pieces, or you may need to replace the entire floor if a portion is damaged.

    Longevity

    Real wood flooring can last for generations, particularly if it is refinished from time to time. The average life span for laminate floors is around 20 years. Laminate flooring is relatively easy and inexpensive to replace.

    Maintenance

    Wood floors require a great deal of care and maintenance. Laminate flooring is easy to maintain and stands up well to intense cleaning. Laminate is an excellent choice for children's bedrooms and other areas where spills are common.

    Engineered Hardwood

    Engineered hardwood floors are a middle-ground option. Easier to install and often more resistant to damage than traditional hardwood, engineered flooring is a composite of plywood and finish wood. The plywood adds strength and resistance to light moisture. Engineered flooring can be sanded and refinished once or twice in its lifetime, although professional assistance is recommended. The look and feel is more similar to traditional wood than to laminate.

    Source:

    Hardwood vs. Laminate Flooring

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