They may look alike but laminate and hardwood flooring have a lot of differences between them. And we don’t just mean in price. Let’s explore some of the major differences between laminate and hardwood flooring so you can have a better idea of which one is right for you.
Laminate flooring
Laminate flooring is a synthetic flooring made of three primary parts: fiberboard, a printed image layer and a sturdy clear top-wear layer. The printed image layer is called a photographic appliqué layer and it can simulate a variety of materials including hardwood. The boards themselves are cut 6mm to 12mm thick and have edges that snap together, getting rid of the need for nails or glue.
Appearance
Laminate flooring can look a lot like hardwood from a distance. Up close, however, the feel is distinct.
Maintenance
Laminate flooring doesn’t do well wet and any spills have to be cleaned up immediately. This means you can’t mop laminate floors and should instead sweep them, dry mop them or use a damp mop. If laminate flooring is damaged it can’t be refinished, the damaged planks have to be replaced entirely.
Lifespan
Well-maintained laminate flooring can last between 15 to 25 years. They tend to come with warranties that cover normal wear and tear, fading and manufacturing defects.
Cost
Laminate flooring is much cheaper than hardwood flooring.
- Low: $1 per square foot
- Medium: $3 per square foot
- High: $6 per square foot
Installation
Laminate is a floating type of flooring, meaning that it’s commonly quicker to install if you are in need of a quick turnaround.
Water, heat, and environment
Laminate flooring is considered water-resistant in the sense that it doesn’t immediately absorb water. Any water on laminate must be removed immediately and the flooring isn’t suggested for places like bathrooms for this reason.
Resale value
Laminate flooring doesn’t add too much to your home’s resale value on its own, but if it does improve the look of the flooring before you take pictures it does tend to have a positive impact on the sale of a home.
Hardwood flooring
Hardwood is natural flooring made of softwood, a versatile material that includes species like Hem-fir, Redwood, and Ponderosa Pine, among others. These types of floors can be finished in the factory or finished on-site with stain and protective coating by an installer. They must be nailed or stapled to the subfloor when being installed.
Appearance
Hardwood is organic material, so it looks like real wood (‘cause it is). Some boards may have flaws in them, but bigger flaws are pulled out of inventory before they reach consumers.
Maintenance
Like laminate, you should keep your hardwood flooring dry. Homeowners should only use damp mops or brooms to clean them. In the event of damage, hardwood flooring can be sanded down and refinished.
Lifespan
With proper maintenance, hardwood floors can last up to 100 years. Durable materials might last even longer than that. Other types, like pinewood, cypress, or cedar may last up to 50 years, especially in high-traffic areas.
Cost
Hardwood flooring is more expensive than laminate flooring.
- Low: $6 per square foot
- Medium: $9 per square foot
- High: $12 per square foot
Installation
You’ll need a professional installer to put hardwood in. Hardwood needs to be nailed or stapled and has to be cut with an electric miter saw.
Water, heat, and environment
Areas that experience a lot of moisture (like bathrooms) are not recommended for hardwood flooring. Homeowners may place hardwood over radiant heating systems, but the heat may cause the wood to eventually crack.
Resale value
Natural wood flooring is always in demand and is seen as a positive with most homebuyers.
Flohr—your flooring partner
If you’re unsure whether your home should go with laminate or hardwood flooring, give us a call. We have over 20 years of experience in supplying and installing flooring and other flooring products. Whatever project you want to do, our team can help you hone in on the best combo of size, texture and grout for your bathroom. Contact us today to get started on your next favorite flooring project.
