Floors are not all equal and here is why

With so much choice available, you would be forgiven for finding the world of flooring a little tricky to navigate at times. If you’ve been wondering what the differences are between laminate, engineered wood and hardwood flooring options, we’ve put together this short guide to help you decide which will be best for your home and lifestyle.

Hardwood

A solid hardwood floor will always look timeless, and as this Forbes article explains, wood floors are more profitable than installing carpet. Hardwood floors are one of the most durable options because even though they will scratch over time, any damage will be easy to sand out and refinish.

You’ll be impressed with the number of grains and colours there are to choose from, and if you’re concerned about the environmental impact, you’ll find that many companies are fully committed to sustainability. Prices will vary according to the type and quality of the wood you choose, and although it will undoubtedly be the most expensive option, the value it will add to your home means it is often an investment worth making.

Engineered wood

If you want to achieve the look of a hardwood floor but without such a large investment, engineered wood flooring, is an ideal option. Layers of inexpensive plywood are finished with a top layer of hardwood, providing the same classic aesthetic at a lower price point, and again, there are many colours and finishes to choose from.

Should any damage occur, you will be able to sand and refinish but it is worth keeping in mind that you will only be able to do this a couple of times before the floor will need to be replaced. A well maintained engineered wood floor can last for many decades, so they are also a good investment and are typically very simple to install.

Laminate

As an even more inexpensive option, laminate is still a popular choice for many. Layers of inexpensive wood are typically finished with a photographic image of a wood grain, which means you miss out on the benefits that come with real wood finishes. Small areas of damage can be concealed with filler, but although it won’t last as long as other wood options, it’s still a durable and easy to maintain option. There is off course Laminate Wood Flooring which is more durable and has a great finish but don’t take my word for it check out options including https://irwintiles.ie/index.php/wooden-flooring.html.

Summary

This article compares types of flooring, including solid hardwood, engineered wood and laminate, to help a homeowner decide which suits their house. It notes that hardwood floors look timeless and, according to a cited Forbes article, can be more profitable long-term than fitting carpet, while pointing out that different flooring types suit different rooms and budgets.

Questions this article raises

• How does engineered wood flooring compare with solid hardwood on price?
• Which flooring type suits a kitchen or bathroom best?
• How long does a well-maintained hardwood floor typically last?