Can't resist the look of wood flooring in a home? You're not alone! That's why, these days, there are a variety of wood flooring products available to suit every style and every budget.
Two top categories are traditional hardwood and modern laminate. But what are the differences between laminate flooring versus hardwood? We cover the pros and cons of each of these options to help you make the right decision for your next renovation project.
Laminate Flooring: Pros, Cons, and What to Consider
Laminate, or composite wood, could look just like real hardwood you might even be fooled into thinking you're looking at hardwood when you're really looking at laminate!
Here are some of the benefits that come with laminate flooring:
- These floors are usually strong enough to resist dents and scratches, so laminate is a wise choice for high-traffic areas
- Laminate can come protected against UV rays, so this is also a smart option for rooms that get a lot of sunlight throughout the day
- This flooring might be a more affordable product, so it's a good alternative if the price of hardwood isn't in your budget
- Depending on the type of laminate that you purchase, it might be easier to clean than hardwood
- Laminate can be easier to install, so it might be a good choice if you want to take a DIY approach but you really need to know what you're doing, especially when it comes to measuring and cutting the planks
A few drawbacks to consider:
- If part of your laminate flooring gets damaged, you may or may not be able to replace just one or more of the boards
- Although some of the more modern laminate products can mimic the appearance of hardwood really well, there are some products that will look more obviously fake
- After installing this flooring, you might notice a lingering odor that results from the synthetic materials that are used to construct it
- You might need to have the floor replaced sooner than you would replace hardwood
Overall, if it's attractiveness, affordability, and durability that you're after, it's definitely worth checking out laminate flooring options. You can start browsing by visiting our showroom to see samples of high-quality laminate.
Hardwood Flooring: Benefits, Drawbacks, and Things to Think About
If you want to add value to your home, as well as warmth and natural attractiveness, hardwood might be exactly what you need. Timeless, classic, and versatile, this flooring comes in a variety of colors to suit any design scheme. But just be prepared to potentially pay more for real hardwood than you would for laminate.
Here are a few reasons why hardwood has remained so popular for so many years:
- Hardwood can last many decades when properly maintained
- When damage to your floors occurs, you might be able to fix your hardwood by sanding and refinishing it, without having to replace the whole floor
- You have the option of choosing between different stains and finishes, so you can customize the look of this flooring to suit your preferences
- If your hardwood starts to look a little old and tired, refinishing it can restore its former brilliance
- For those who are aiming to install a more eco-friendly flooring product, hardwood that's made of sustainable resources or reclaimed wood could be a fabulous choice
A few drawbacks to consider:
- Wear and tear, including scratches and dents from furniture, can be a concern with hardwood flooring, particularly in homes with kids and pets, and in rooms that get a lot of foot traffic
- Hardwood might be more susceptible to damage from too much exposure to sunlight, as well as from exposure to moisture
- Hardwood is typically more expensive than laminate products, particularly if you are opting for flooring that is made from an exotic wood
- Installation of this flooring is often more complicated and difficult compared to laminate, and finishes might create odor and dust
Overall, long-lasting, beautiful hardwood can certainly enhance the look of your home. Today's selection includes woods that can suit a range of budgets, so you might be able to find an affordable hardwood even if you don't have a lot of money to spend. And, with our in-home consultation, you can see samples without leaving the house!
Laminate Flooring vs. Hardwood: Two Lovely Wood Flooring Options to Consider
Laminate flooring has become almost as popular as hardwood because it can mimic the appearance of real wood, while also providing some additional durability against daily wear and tear. But nothing really beats the look and feel of real hardwood under your feet, which is why this flooring will never go out of style.
Ultimately, it is totally up to you to decide which type of flooring is right for every room of your home. And, with the help of experts at Denver Carpet & Flooring, you can browse a wide variety of products that are all within your budget, so you'll end up with the new floor of your dreams before you know it.
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