Torn between choosing hardwood floors or laminate
floors? While this site is geared more for hardwood
flooring related information, laminate floors do have
their place but really depends on what you are trying to
achieve.
Benefits Of Laminate Floors. Summary
Laminate
floors are extremely durable but do have their
limitations. Even though they are very tolerant of
scratching they can still be damaged given the right
conditions. Examples include dropping large irregular
objects, unprotected chair legs, and dragging furniture
across the floor. These floor types are also stain
resistant and do not fade or change color as hardwood
floors do.
Disadvantages Of Laminate Floors
Unlike
traditional hardwood floors they cannot be refinished or
resurfaced because they are composed of a thin
artificial surface mimicking hardwood grain or tile
patterns. Patterns are repetitious. Each box will
contain the same appearance. Repairs are quite
difficult for any do it yourselfer but experienced
professionals armed with the proper tools can handle
them in a snap. All laminate floors are floating type
only. This is not much of a disadvantage in most
respects. Common complaints from laminate owners are
often hollow sounding floors, common with many floating
floors. Upgraded underlayment that is installed under
the floor can dramatically cut down on not only the
hollow sound but click, clap feel underfoot.
Comparison
|
Laminate Floors |
Hardwood Floors |
| |
|
|
Photographed image/repeating patterns |
Natural/no one piece is alike |
|
Lifespan is limited. Less than 20 years |
Will last 20-100 years plus¹ |
|
Easier
to maintain² |
Improved maintenance |
|
Cannot
be refinished |
Can be
refinished |
|
Difficult to repair |
Can be
repaired easier |
|
Brand
lines discontinued often³ |
Easier to find replacement solution |
|
Fade
resistant |
Will
darken/amber. Extent dependent on species. |
|
Scratch
resistant |
Will scratch easier |
|
Will
not help resale value of home |
Improves home resale value or time it takes to
sell |
Benefits Of Hardwood Floors. Summary
More
natural looking. There are no repeat patterns as each
and every piece of hardwood flooring will be different
due to the product being natural. Has a better longevity
factor depending on what type is chosen. Solid hardwood
floors can last well into one hundred years. Hardwood
floors can be refinished or color changes can be made.
Disadvantages Of Hardwood Floors
Can
scratch and dent easily. More prone to water damage but
may be temporary, opposed to laminate floors where water
damage may be permanent and require replacement.
Resale
Value Of Homes
Laminate
floors have not been known to provide better resale
value compared to hardwood floors.
|
