When you come across wood flooring that looks great and find out it’s actually laminate, you might wonder why people still choose hardwood if laminate is cheaper and looks similar. The answer lies in understanding what laminate flooring is – a synthetic product made up of layers fused together through lamination, with a photograph of wood on the top layer and no actual wood in the inner core layer. The layering process of high-pressure laminate involves adhesives and finishes that can increase the level of VOCs in your home.
On the other hand, engineered hardwood is made up of multiple layers of natural wood with a top layer of your chosen hardwood species. The layers are cross-grained for stability, and the product contains no added formaldehyde, resulting in some of the lowest VOC flooring available in the market.
LAMINATE FLOORING VS. ENGINEERED HARDWOOD
Now that we’ve established that bdsfloors engineered hardwood flooring outperforms laminate in terms of air quality, stability, and authenticity, let’s address the misconception about pricing. In the past, laminate was significantly cheaper per square foot compared to hardwood, but as technology improved, the price of high-end laminate increased to the point where it is now in the same price range as mid-level engineered hardwood. This means that you’re essentially paying more for a replica of the real thing, which can be purchased at a similar price.
In terms of installation, both laminate and engineered hardwood can be installed on, above, or below grade, making them equally convenient.
When deciding between laminate and engineered hardwood, it’s important to consider other factors as well. If you plan on selling your home, real hardwood flooring can increase the resale value and make the house easier to sell, according to a study by USA Today using data from the National Association of Realtors. Additionally, if you want to change the look of your flooring without replacing it, engineered hardwood can be sanded and refinished, while laminate cannot.
Choosing bdsfloors engineered hardwood flooring ensures authenticity, durability, versatility, and environmental credibility while staying within your budget. So, when someone asks about your floors, you can proudly share the benefits of your choice.
