Infloormation

Debating between Laminate or Hardwood Floors? Here are Some Questions to Consider.

Wood or laminate? Many people find themselves debating between these two choices. Although the look of the two is fairly similar, there are characteristics of each that will help you discover which is best for you.

As you are making your decision, consider your lifestyle, personal preferences and expectations. From a lifestyle standpoint, a home with children and pets – involving spills, furniture moving and rough play – may hold up better with a good-quality laminate. The strongest laminates withstand the challenges of a busy family and still continue to look good for several decades, and the only maintenance required will be a bit of damp mopping. Laminates also handle temperature and humidity shifts with no problems. On the other hand, while laminates are getting better and better at mimicking real wood, there is a difference due to the pattern repeats that are part of a laminate floor.

Wood floors are beautiful and warm up a home. Over the years, however, even a well-maintained floor will develop scratches, dents and some uneven fading from traffic and light. Many people find this a comfortable patina that adds character to a floor. Wood floors also require more maintenance – such as an immediate wiping up of any spills, and annual applications of wax or polyurethane. Wood floors are also more expensive than laminates, but can last much longer with several sanding-refinishing renewals.

As you make your decision, take the time to visit good-sized rooms with laminate floors, as well as rooms that have older wood floors. Also take the opportunity to talk with us. You will find that we can help you with the knowledge of latest products and insights into which choice will work best for you and your home.