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When planning a floor installation or replacement, the first thing to decide is the material. In one of our last articles, we provided a detailed comparison between engineered wood flooring and solid hardwood flooring.
In today's article, we will compare one more popular flooring option with engineered wood flooring: laminate flooring.
We'll examine their composition, durability, appearance, cost, and more to give you a complete picture of both flooring types. With this close comparison, you can make a more informed choice for your home.
For a no-obligation discussion with our experts about your flooring project, call us today at (412) 353-5660.
What Is Engineered Wood Flooring?
Engineered wood flooring consists of multiple layers. The top layer is a genuine hardwood veneer, while the base layers are made of high-quality plywood arranged in a cross-grain pattern.
This innovative construction process provides better stability and resistance to environmental changes compared to traditional hardwood flooring.
What Is Laminate Flooring?
Laminate flooring, on the other hand, is a synthetic flooring product that has gained popularity on the market because of its affordability and versatility. The core of laminated wood floors is generally made from high-density fiberboard (HDF).
On top of this core, manufacturers add a highly detailed photographic layer that mimics the appearance of natural wood. The topmost layer is a clear, durable layer that provides good protection against daily wear and tear.
Engineered Wood vs. Laminate Wood Flooring: A Detailed Comparision
Here, we will compare both laminate and hardwood flooring based on certain important considerations. While both options are popular and worth investing in, this comparison will help you make the right choice for your space.
#1 Composition and Construction
The primary difference between engineered hardwood vs. laminate is their composition. As we already mentioned above, both these materials are constructed differently.
👉 Engineered wood flooring contains real wood, with a genuine hardwood veneer on top and plywood underneath. This gives it an authentic wood feel and appearance that many homeowners desire.
👉 Laminate flooring, while designed to look like wood, doesn't contain any actual wood in its construction. Instead, it is made with high-resolution imagery manufacturing techniques to create an appearance like wooden floors.
#2 Durability and Lifespan
When comparing laminate vs. engineered flooring durability, both materials have their own different advantages.
👉 Engineered hardwood generally lasts between 20 to 30 years when properly maintained. One of its significant benefits is that you can refinish it several times during its lifespan, though not as many times as solid hardwood.
👉 Laminate flooring generally has a lifespan of 15 to 25 years. While it can't be refinished, its top layer is extremely resistant to scratches, dents, and daily wear. This makes it an excellent choice for high-traffic areas or homes with pets and children.
#3 Water Resistance
Water resistance is an important thing to consider while choosing between engineered hardwood vs. laminate flooring for your home. Neither option is completely waterproof, but they handle moisture differently.
👉 Engineered wood provides better moisture resistance than traditional hardwood, thanks to its layered construction. However, standing water can still damage the wood veneer.
👉 Laminate flooring generally provides better surface-level water resistance due to its synthetic wear layer. However, if water seeps between the planks and reaches the fiberboard core, it can cause swelling and warping. For this reason, neither option is recommended for bathrooms or areas prone to frequent water exposure.
But if you really want to use either of these materials for your bathroom, professionals can help you determine if it’s possible.
With the right water-resistant material and professional installation, you can safely consider laminate or engineered wood floors in your bathroom, too!
#4 Installation Methods
Both these flooring types have different installation methods.
👉 Engineered wood can be installed using nail-down, glue-down, or floating methods, depending on your subfloor condition and preference. This versatility makes it adaptable to different home environments.
👉 Laminate flooring generally uses a floating installation method with click-lock edges, making it one of the more DIY-friendly options available.
However, proper installation is again very important for both types to maintain their longevity and performance.
#5 Cost Considerations
When comparing engineered vs. laminate flooring costs, laminate flooring is a more budget-friendly option.
👉 You can expect to spend anywhere around $2 to $8 per square foot to install laminate flooring in your home, while engineered hardwood can cost between $4 to $16 per square foot.
Installation costs vary as well, with laminate generally costing less because it is simpler to install.
#6 Maintenance Requirements
Both of these flooring options require regular maintenance to maintain their appearance and lifespan.
👉 You will need to regularly vacuum or sweep both floors, mop with manufacturer-recommended cleaners, immediately clean spills, and avoid excessive moisture. In the case of water-resistant laminate flooring, you don't have to worry about moisture as much.
👉 The only main difference is that to maintain the appearance of laminate flooring, you will have to use proper protection from direct sunlight to prevent fading of the material.
👉 On the other hand, you can refinish engineered wood flooring when the surface shows any significant wear.
How to Choose Between Engineered Wood and Laminate Floors
When deciding between engineered hardwood vs. laminate flooring for your home, here are some things you should think about.
#1 Location and Usage
Think about where you plan to install the flooring and how the space will be used. High-traffic areas might benefit from laminate's superior scratch resistance, while formal living spaces might be better suited to the authentic look of engineered hardwood.
#2 Budget Constraints
Your budget will also play a big role in your decision. Remember to consider not just the primary cost of materials and installation but also the long-term maintenance and related replacement costs.
#3 Environmental Conditions
Consider your local climate and the specific conditions in your home. Areas with significant humidity fluctuations might benefit from engineered wood's stability, while spaces with direct sunlight exposure might require additional consideration for either option.
#4 Style Preferences
While both options offer attractive finishes, engineered wood provides an authentic wood appearance and feel that some homeowners prefer. Laminate offers a wider variety of styles and patterns but may not have the same natural appeal.
Common Misconceptions About Engineered Wood and Laminate Flooring
When discussing engineered hardwood vs. laminate flooring, several misconceptions often arise. Below, we will clear up some of the common misunderstandings about both these flooring materials to help you make a decision.
Misconception 1: Laminate Flooring Looks Artificial
Modern laminate flooring has come a long way in terms of appearance. Today's construction techniques create incredibly realistic wood-look surfaces that can be difficult to distinguish from real wood.
While engineered hardwood offers the authenticity of real wood, high-quality laminate can provide a surprisingly convincing alternative.
Misconception 2: Engineered Wood Isn't "Real" Wood
Some people say that engineered wood is not real wood, while this is partially true as engineered wood is not real solid hardwood, but engineered hardwood is indeed real wood.
The top layer is a genuine hardwood veneer, which gives you the same beautiful appearance and feel as traditional hardwood floors. The engineered construction simply provides additional stability and versatility.
Misconception 3: Both Options Are Waterproof
Neither engineered wood nor laminate flooring is completely waterproof. While both offer some water resistance, prolonged exposure to moisture can damage either type of flooring.
For areas prone to water exposure, consider water-resistant alternatives like luxury vinyl or tile.
Also Read: Engineered Wood Flooring vs Hardwood: Which is Better?
Get Professional Floor Remodeling Services In Pennsylvania Today!
At McClellands Contracting and Roofing, LLC, we are your local home improvement contractors. If you are looking for professional flooring services in Pittsburgh, we are here to assist you. We have installed and replaced the floors in many properties throughout Pennsylvania, and we can also help you choose the right flooring material for your space.
Our experienced team serves Pittsburgh and surrounding areas in Pennsylvania, providing expert guidance and professional installation services for all your flooring needs.
To discuss your project with our professionals or to get a free estimate for your flooring needs, feel free to call us today at (412) 353-5660.
FAQ’S
A. Laminate tends to perform better with pets since its wear layer resists scratches and makes cleanup easier. Engineered wood can show scratches from pet claws, though lighter wood colors help hide them better.
A. Engineered wood generally adds more resale value since it's considered a premium flooring option compared to real wood. While high-quality laminate can look great, it usually doesn't increase home value as much as engineered wood.
A. With proper care, engineered wood floors can last 20 to 30 years and can be refinished a few times. Laminate floors typically last 15 to 25 years but can't be refinished, so when damaged they need to be replaced.
