Laminate Hardwood Flooring Vs Hardwood

Laminate flooring and engineered hardwood floors are very similar and often get confused but there are some key differences to take into consideration when comparing the two floors.

Laminate hardwood flooring vs hardwood.

Hardwood is a natural product. Solid hardwood flooring as the name suggests is comprised of flooring boards that are solid hardwood material through and through. Cheaper versions have 1 4 inch cores and the photo reproductions may not be as realistic as more expensive versions. The winner of engineered hardwood vs.

One of the most obvious differences between hardwood and laminate flooring is the composition. The plank materials finish thicknesses and edge geometry all differ. This does not mean laminate flooring is a particularly inferior choice however as in some cases it can. Homeadvisor s flooring guide explains the differences between laminate and engineered hardwood and reviews the pros and cons of each.

Hardwood flooring is made from natural durable woods such as oak maple or hickory that can last a long time when maintained properly laminate flooring which is made of a synthetic fiberboard material and has a laminate finish is much cheaper than hardwood but will not last as long. Laminate flooring generally is less expensive than engineered hardwood. Engineered hardwood debate right there. The main difference between the two floors is that engineered hardwood floors have an actual hardwood surface but structurally they are very similar to a laminate.

Laminate flooring really depends. Both are strong durable floors that are less expensive than natural wood but laminate flooring typically costs less. Laminate runs 1 to 7 per square foot depending on the quality. If you re seeking an alternative to hardwood but laminate doesn t sound like the material for you consider engineered wood or luxury vinyl.

Both materials mimic a natural wood floor beautifully but if you re all about natural beauty you might prefer the solid wood top of an engineered. The boards usually 3 4 inch thick are generally milled with a smooth top surface and tongue and groove edges that interlock to hold the boards together.