When it comes to choosing the right flooring for your home, the choice between hardwood and laminate floors is a common one. Both options have benefits and drawbacks, especially when considering long-term value and durability. In this blog, we’ll describe the characteristics of hardwood and laminate floors to help you make your decision.
What are Hardwood and Laminate Floors?
Hardwood Floors
Hardwood floors are solid pieces of natural or engineered wood, with a top layer mixed with a plywood base. Popular wood species include walnut, maple, hickory, white oak, and red oak, serving different purposes with unique characteristics.
Laminate Floors
Laminate flooring is a synthetic product made up of several layers fused together through a lamination process. The top layer is a high-resolution photographic image of wood, stone, or other materials, with a clear protective cover. The installation process is usually simpler and quicker than hardwood.
However, it’s important to note that laminate floors do not offer the health benefits of real wood flooring. The structure of the product itself uses many layers of adhesives pressed together – creating more “off gas.”
What Is the Durability of Hardwood and Laminate Floors?
Hardwood Floors Durability
Hardwood floors are known for their durability and longevity. Solid hardwood can last for decades, even up to a century with proper care. Hardwood is resistant to everyday wear and tear, and it can be sanded and refinished multiple times to remove scratches and restore its original beauty.
Laminate Floors Durability
Laminate flooring is highly durable and designed to withstand heavy foot traffic, scratches, and stains. However, it typically has a shorter lifespan compared to hardwood, ranging from 15 to 20 years. It can’t be refinished like hardwood, but the protective top layer guards against minor damages. Laminate is more resistant to moisture than hardwood, making it a great choice for areas like bathrooms.
What Is the Cost of Hardwood and Laminate Floors?
Hardwood Floors Cost
The initial cost of hardwood flooring is usually higher than laminate. Hardwood materials are more expensive, and the installation process is more labor-intensive. Considering long-term costs, hardwood floors can be more economical due to their longevity and the ability to refinish rather than replace them.
Laminate Floors Cost
Upfront, laminate flooring is more affordable in synthetic materials and installation. Although, down the line, laminate floors may cause higher costs as they need to be replaced more often.
What Is the Resale Value of Hardwood and Laminate Floors?
Hardwood Floors Resale Value
Hardwood floors are highly valued for their natural beauty, sustainability, and timeless appeal. They are often seen as a premium feature that can increase a home’s resale value. The Remodeling Impact Report, a study by the National Association of Realtors (NAR) and the National Association of the Remodeling Industry (NARI), explained the return on investments (ROI) for home improvement projects. Installing new hardwood provides a 119% ROI while refinishing existing flooring has a 147% ROI.
Laminate Floors Resale Value
Laminate floors provide no lasting value as they will eventually need to be replaced. Modern laminate can be attractive through the wide variety of styles and designs that closely mimic the appearance of wood. So, the high-end look can be cost-effective, but it may not add as much value to a home as hardwood.
Learn More from the Hardwood Floor Experts at Barnum
Both hardwood and laminate floors have their pros and cons when it comes to long-term value and durability. Hardwood offers natural beauty and can be a lasting investment, while laminate provides a cost-effective alternative with some durability. Your choice will depend on your specific needs, budget, and lifestyle.
Our team can help you make the best choice for your home! We have years of experience and a reputation in the Des Moines area for providing top-quality service and expert advice. If you have any questions or are ready to start your new flooring project, reach out to Barnum Floors.
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