The difference between laminate and hardwood floors is often difficult to distinguish. One thing is certain: both options are viable options for flooring. In order to take the right decision, you should consider some advantages and disadvantages of the two options proposed for home renovations.
Laminate flooring
Laminate flooring is actually a kind of plastic called melamine with wood fiber or even pressed sawdust, depending on the manufacturer. Hence the name of laminate or melamine given to this type of flooring. The decorative layer on the surface is what gives the wood – like appearance.
Depending on its hardness and resistance, laminate is divided into several classes. The cheapest and least durable can be applied in areas less exposed in the home: bedroom, dressing room, office, etc. But for tiling floors in rooms where people come and go often, choose laminate that lasts a long time, especially in the homes of families with children.
Advantages of laminate flooring
Laminate flooring is installed easily over an existing floor or above another layer. It’s practical and easy to maintain, available in a wide variety of designs and colors, easy to integrate into any decor. For those who want the look of wood but are on a tight budget, they can achieve the same result using this type of flooring.
Melamine flooring is durable and resistant to heavy traffic and daily wear. It is also easy to maintain; it requires no special cleaning or polishing nor loses its color over time if exposed to sunlight.
Disadvantages of laminate flooring
Laminate flooring is artificial and therefore tends to have a poor appearance quality compared to hardwood. Depending on various properties, the laminate can even destroy the beauty of a certain space.
Laminate flooring tiles are easy to combine with each other, without requiring nails or adhesive for installation. For this reason, this type of flooring is hard to repair and replacement of tiles is not recommended because the difference between the new and the old, worn ones will be seen immediately. It is ideal to replace all the flooring when this change is needed.
Hardwood flooring
Hardwood flooring is made from specially cut pieces of wood that are ready to be mounted on the floor. It requires professional installation and caution in its maintenance.
If you want to enjoy the warmth offered by hardwood flooring as many years as possible, you must leave its assembly to professionals. It is very important that the team that will handle the installation of hardwood flooring have experience. It is said that if during four consecutive seasons after installing the hardwood flooring has retained its original appearance, it was properly installed.
Advantages of hardwood flooring
Hardwood flooring is synonymous with quality and authentic style. A wood like oak or bamboo will give a high quality interior decoration element. Despite the costs, hardwood flooring is a worthwhile investment because of its longevity. It can last for years and everything will look better in a room because of the wood’s natural characteristics.
Hardwood floor is quieter, absorbs noises differently and much better than laminate does.
Another big advantage is that this type of flooring adds value to a house by the uniqueness of each piece of wood. Also, wood, though worn, can be reconditioned to regain its brilliance. This is done by scraping and varnishing the hardwood floor, but professionals should make this reconditioning.
Disadvantages of hardwood flooring
Depending on the quality and origin of the wood, such floors require costly additional installation kits and it’s always recommended to seek professional installation.
A hardwood floor is exposed to scratches, moisture and everyday wear and tear. For some it is a quality, for others a disadvantage.
If hardwood flooring is better suited rather for finishing houses decorated in a classic style (although you can use it in other homes as well), the laminate is very versatile fitting a variety of styles: classical, oriental, minimalist, shabby-chic, high-tech etc.
All in all, you are the one who decides, depending on your budget, needs and personal preference.
Our team at Good Deal Remodeling has an extensive experience in home remodeling projects, from interior remodeling to exterior remodeling and renovation work.
You can also contact us for various remodeling services in the Philadelphia area and obtain a free estimate beforehand.