Best Hardwood Floors

Are you trying to decide if laminate wood flooring is a better choice for your floors than real wood flooring? It can be a difficult decision. Many people feel that real wood flooring is better looking and better lasting than laminate wood flooring. It is more expensive and it is real wood. But, there are actually several reasons why you might want to consider laminate wood flooring as an alternative. It is easy to install, has some better durability characteristics and it looks very close to real wood floors. So, before you choose between wood and laminate wood flooring, look at the pros and cons of each.

• Installation: Laminate wood flooring that is sold today is mainly “tongue and groove” installation and is very easy to install. You can install laminate wood flooring over virtually any surface because it is not secured to the surface. Hardwood floors can be easy to install if you have the right method. Some have a “clic” longstrip method which requires no gluing, nailing or stapling. On the other hand, if you do have to staple, nail or glue the flooring it can be more difficult. You can install wood flooring over most, but not all surfaces. You can install either type of floor yourself or have it done professionally.
• Durability: Laminate wood flooring is very durable and scratch and stain resistant (however big dogs’ claws may leave marks.) It is also resistant to fading. But, if it breaks or cracks it cannot be repaired and will have to be replaced. Hardwood floors can be repaired if they break or crack. But, they can stain and warp if they get wet and they can scratch if they are not specially treated with aluminum oxide or some other finish. They also are prone to fading.
• Floor Care: Caring for laminate wood flooring is fairly simple. Clean up spills so that they do not get under the floor and use a gentle soap and water to clean. You do not have to wax or refinish laminate wood flooring. Most laminate wood floors are warranted against damage from moisture, but if they are installed in a wet area such as a bathroom, the warranty may not cover this. Real wood floors are also fairly easy to clean but they have to be refinished occasionally and polished. Any spills should be cleaned up immediately and take care not to let any moisture seep underneath the floor.
• Longevity: A laminate wood floor will probably last less than 20 years. A real wood floor can last 25 years or more if it is good quality wood and it is well cared for.
• Cost: Laminate is cheaper than real wood, but there are some real wood products that are fairly new to the market that are still durable, but also less expensive-like bamboo flooring.

The flooring that you choose will have a big impact on the look of your home. It is also a big investment of time and money so choose carefully.