When you need to renovate your home, two of the most common flooring options that you decide between are either laminate or hardwood. Laminate floors are an engineered material that looks like wood. While there are countless other products on the market, each offering something unique to consumers, people still tend towards wood and “wood-like” products. If you are thinking of investing in hardwood or laminate, then here is a list of pros and cons and what to consider for each product.
Hardwood
Hardwood is the quintessential choice for most people when they are considering getting new floors. Hardwood comes in a vast variety of colours and finishes and can be resurfaced multiple times to bring it up to current trends. Another plus side is that hardwood adds to your home’s resale price, and will wow potential buyers.
Pros of Hardwood
Hardwood adds character and warmth to any home. They are absolutely beautiful, and you will fall in love with the way they look. It is also environmentally sustainable and, if cared for well, will last for decades. You also do not have to worry if you fall out of love with your hardwood’s finish. You can resurface the hardwood and stain it a new, trendy colour. If you want to add value to your home, then hardwood is the way to go.
Cons of Hardwood
Hardwood does need some upkeep to keep it at its best. Since it is sensitive to sunlight, water damage, dirt, and scratches, you need to make sure that you are vigilant with cleaning it an that you do not use any cleaning agents that can hurt the floor’s finish. If you have pets with claws or rambunctious children, then to help your hardwood last you may want to invest in rugs and runners. This does mean covering up part of the hardwood, which you may not want to do.
Laminate
Laminate is a more durable option that is great for families with kids and pets. There are many options for laminate as well, so you can pick and choose what works best for your home.
Pros of Laminate
Laminate is much more affordable than hardwood, coming in at around half the cost. A good quality laminate will also look quite a bit like hardwood and so you will get some of the aesthetic benefits, just not the same texture. Laminate also is resistant to scratches, dents, and does not react to UV rays the same way that hardwood does, which makes it perfect for busy homes. It also does better if it gets wet in comparison to the hardwood. Laminate is also easy to clean and maintain.
Cons of Laminate
Laminate does not last as long as hardwood does, and if you get sick of laminate, you have to replace it as it cannot be resurfaced and stained. Some people also do not like the look of laminate, but that comes down to personal preference.
Laminate Flooring at Tile Inc.
If you are looking for great flooring options for your home, then contact us at Tile Inc. Our London, Ontario showroom features a wide variety of tiles, laminate, and vinyl that you will fall in love with. Come see us today!
All credit goes to Tile Inc. – Laminate Flooring Store London, ON