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What type of flooring should you get? It depends on what you’re looking for. Take ceramic tiles, for example, they’re water-resistant, which makes them a good option for kitchens.
Other popular options include vinyl, laminate, and hardwood, all of which have their pros and cons. For the purposes of this article, however, we’ll be focusing on the last two.
How durable is hardwood flooring? How does it compare to laminate? Which one is right for you? Find out by reading the rest of this post!
What is Laminate Flooring?
Laminate flooring is a multi-layer synthetic flooring product that’s designed to imitate the appearance of real wood. Made of particleboard, the layers are pressed together at high temperatures and sealed for maximum durability.
Just like real hardwood, it’s available in many styles including walnut, maple, oak, and hickory.
Pros of Laminate Wood Flooring
Laminate floors are great in that it’s affordable. Depending on what you get, they can start at less than $1 per square foot, which is considerably cheaper than hardwood (here’s what you need to know about cheap laminate flooring).
Not only that, but they’re easy to install as most come with a snap-and-lock design. A moderate handy homeowner can probably finish a room in a single weekend.
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Cons of Laminate Floors
Laminate is susceptible to moisture damage; it can cause the flooring to warp and bubble up. For this reason, it’s not recommended for bathrooms and other damp areas.
Unlike hardwood, it can’t be sanded and refinished either. Instead, you’ll have to replace the whole thing.
What is Hardwood Flooring?
Hardwood floors are exactly what they sound like—they’re floors that are made of solid planks of wood. Some popular choices include maple, cherry, hickory, red oak, ash, and beech.
Generally speaking, they’re installed in areas of lower traffic such as living or dining rooms.
Pros of Hardwood Floors
Hardwood floors are durable. They can easily last more than 100 years if cared for properly.
Not only that, but they’re easy to maintain. Just give them a quick daily sweep and an occasional cleaning with a mop and they’ll stay looking close to brand new.
Plus, they can increase the value of your home if you plan on selling.
Cons of Hardwood Flooring
Hardwood floors can be expensive. On average, you can expect to pay around $7 per square foot and that doesn’t include the installation.
They’re also loud; you’ll definitely be able to hear it if someone’s walking upstairs. On top of that, they’re susceptible to scratches. For this reason, they’re not recommended for those with pets.
Deciding Between Laminate and Hardwood Flooring
Hardwood flooring and laminate flooring have their advantages and disadvantages. At the end of the day, it all depends on your budget and what you’re looking for.
Interested in reading more home improvement-related posts? Then you’ll want to visit the rest of our blog!
