Floor Facts: Laminate vs. Hardwood
Hardwood flooring can be very beautiful, and it coordinates with many different styles of interior decoration with a great deal of versatility. Laminate flooring can mimic hardwood, and is less expensive, but each style has its own pros and cons. When considering whether to choose either hardwood or laminate for your flooring project, it is helpful to know the strengths and weaknesses of each.
Hardwood has several advantages. It can literally, with proper care, last a lifetime, whereas laminate flooring usually has a life span of 20 years or less. Hardwood flooring can also measurably increase the value of a home. While hardwood is more easily damaged than most types of laminate flooring, it is also far easier to replace specifically damaged areas than it is to replace small sections of laminate floors. Newer types of hardwood may have a factory finish which is nearly as resistant as laminate.
Laminate floors, on the other hand, are not only remarkably difficult to scratch or stain, they are also usually very easy to install. A single person can replace a laminate floor over a weekend, while few types of hardwood floors can be installed this easily.
When deciding between the two, consider the amount and types of traffic the floor will receive, and your long term plans for the home. With these things in mind, it’s a good idea to consult with a flooring expert at your local hardware store to discover which options are best for your needs.
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