Hardwood Flooring Vs Laminate Timber

Posted on December 11th 2013

One of the most popular flooring choices these days is wood, but the choice isn’t as simple as it sounds…

Today we are going to share some of the pros and cons when comparing hardwood with Laminate, and you’ll be surprised!

Many people assume that hardwood is the ultimate in wood flooring, giving you the real deal, rustic, traditional look. However, just because it costs more, doesn’t mean it’s better.

Let’s be honest, a real hardwood floor is a beautiful thing. If your home, lifestyle and budget permit, then go for it, but a few things to be weary of…  Hardwood is considerably higher in price to buy and install and this is because it is harvested from trees, and depending on how exotic the species, this will depict your final costs.

Hardwood, though its name might say otherwise, is actually quite susceptible to scratches, water damage and will show considerable wear in high traffic areas. Again, you need to factor in your family lifestyle… kids and pets running around, high traffic entrance ways etc. Hardwood can also be affected by sunlight, being a natural product, it can fade over time when under direct light from windows etc.

Having said all this, it is easy to repair if need be. In most cases all you will need to do is sand back and re-polish your boards. Hardwood, depending on the variety can also add considerable value to your home.

So why should you consider laminate..?

Laminate is cheaper to buy and install and it comes in a huge variety of finishes. Laminate is made from pressed wood with and image of wood grain embedded on the surface. Because it is made from multiple layers of pressed wood, it is far more durable, moisture and scratch resistant, easy to clean and maintain. It also has a UV protective layer on the surface, helping reduce sun damage.

When choosing a laminate, do make sure you opt for a high quality product. Many lower quality products can tend look artificial.

So really the choice is up to you. Both have their pros and cons, it really depends on your lifestyle and hip pocket. It’s important to remember that wood floors, no matter their material will add value to your home regardless, not to mention they are a gorgeous looking finish!

Image Credit: Georgetown Renovations

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