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White Wood Dining

Benefits of Wood vs. Laminate

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Today's flooring is more durable and longer-lasting than ever before. It also comes in myriad material types, meaning it's easier than ever to get the look you want. For a traditional appearance, nothing beats a wood floor. It's timeless, neutral and goes with any type of decor. Recently, laminate flooring has popped up as a cost-effective alternative to natural wood floors. Available in almost any look you can imagine, it's an ideal way to stretch your budget without sacrificing style. Take a look at a few of the benefits you can expect with each flooring type.

The Cost Factor

Original hardwood floors are found in many older homes. They're rich in tone, full of character and one of the more sought-after elements that homebuyers look for when considering earlier construction. It's not uncommon to hear sighs of relief when matted, worn carpet is pulled up in a mid-1960s ranch-style home, only to reveal gloriously untouched original hardwoods.

While that might be a welcome surprise, installing true wood floors in a new home comes with a heftier price tag than the cost of renting a carpet floor stripper. In fact, research shows that installing wooden flooring will run you around $9 to $12 per square foot. On the other hand, laminate is only around $5 to $8 for the same square footage. Laminate floor installation also runs about 50 percent of the price it costs to install real hardwood flooring.

Understanding the Different Materials

The exact price you'll pay for real hardwood depends on the type of tree you want. From reclaimed pine to red oak and maple, there are many different kinds of wood to browse. As a rule of thumb, exotic trees carry higher price tags. These include Brazilian cherry trees, tigerwood, kempas and other options.

Laminate flooring, on the other hand, is created by pressing thin, laminated sheets of composite wood together at high temperatures and covering the top layer with an image of hardwood. Its lower price point is reflective of the cheaper price of materials.

The Issue of Durability

Real hardwoods might look rugged and rustic, but most are relatively soft and can scratch easily. If you mop your floors with water, you might find that they're also susceptible to water damage. Conversely, laminate is more scratch-resistant. Its pressed-wood layers also make it more durable and water-resistant than its real counterpart. As a result, many homeowners find that laminate is easier to clean.

Comparing Overall Appearances

When it comes to "wow factor," real hardwoods are eye-catching, attractive and can add to a home's value. Yet, the wear and tear they experience over time can show their age. The good news? Sanding is usually the only step required to buff out most imperfections.

Laminate flooring, though it's more able to resist wear, can look lower-quality or even artificial if the wood grain isn't properly applied or designed. However, there are many laminate colors and designs available, making it an attractive choice for both new construction and remodels. When it comes to repair, you can buy individual boards and snap them in place of damaged sections, if required, though it's important to make sure the new board matches the rest of the floor in color and texture.

There are both advantages and drawbacks to real hardwoods and laminate flooring. Ultimately, laminate wins out for the homeowner seeking the perfect blend of trendy and traditional. Hardwood is a better choice if you're looking to maintain an older home's design integrity and don't mind the patina the wood takes on over time. Whichever you decide to install in your home, take into consideration the overall aesthetic you prefer and let your budget and eye for design direct from there.

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