Homeowners seeking an elegant, classic, and durable flooring solution at an affordable price often find themselves torn between engineered wood flooring and laminate flooring.
The choice of flooring material holds more significance than one might realize, as it influences the ambience, productivity, and safety of your living space. In the following article, explore the distinctions between engineered wood flooring and laminate to make an informed decision for a stylish and long-lasting home.
So, which one should you choose? Let’s find out.
Engineered Wood Flooring VS Laminate
Engineered wood flooring or engineered hardwood flooring is a flooring option that replicates the look and qualities of solid hardwood flooring while offering enhanced durability and stability.
Is Engineered Wood Flooring the Same as Laminate?
Simple answer, no. Laminate flooring is made by laminating several layers that fuse and have a print like wood, stones, and others.
Differences Between Engineered Wood and Laminate
If you look from afar, you may not notice the differences between engineered wood and laminate. But if you look closer, there are some differences that you can see and feel directly. Engineered wood flooring vs laminate has its pros and cons. Let’s talk about it!
1. Materials
Engineered wood flooring is commonly constructed with multiple layers. The uppermost layer is typically composed of a thin slice of solid wood, giving it the genuine appearance and texture of solid wood floors.
The core layers are made up of more affordable materials such as plywood or high-density fiberboard (HDF). Lastly, the bottom layer of the flooring is usually made of hardwood or softwood, providing additional support and stability.
Instead, laminate flooring is a synthetic product manufactured mainly from a core of high-density fiberboard (HDF) or particleboard, coated with resin or aluminium oxide and with a printed appearance like wood, stones, etc.
2. Water Resistance
As it looks from the materials, differences between engineering wood and laminate can be seen in their resistance to water and humanity.
Engineered wood flooring is less water-resistant due to the uppermost layer being usually solid wood. Yet, engineered wood flooring will not expand if the water slips in between floors or the room is cold or humid.
On the other hand, laminate flooring has more water resistance because it is coated by resin or aluminium. But if the floor becomes too wet and water slips on the sides and the bottom, it can expand and distort.
3. Durability
One of the main issues in choosing engineered wood flooring vs laminate is durability! Is Engineered Wood More Durable than Laminate? Not really.
Engineered wood flooring has solid wood layers on top and has a more natural-like wood pattern and sturdy material. But at the same time, it can be more prone to damage such as scratches, dents, and even dull throughout time if you do not take good care of it.
Yet, laminate flooring is more durable from scratches, stain resistant, and dents. Laminate flooring can be suitable for pets or children.
4. Appearances and Comfort
As it has wood material, engineered wood flooring looks more shiny, smooth, elegant and classic. Because of its material, engineered wood flooring feels harder and firm when you walk and will not peel off easily like laminate flooring.
Also, other differences between engineered wood and laminate is the bouncy feeling of the material in laminate flooring. Even though the looks may not be as great as engineered wood flooring, laminate flooring will be suitable for children’s bathrooms or playrooms.
5. Maintenance
As mentioned before, laminate flooring is more easily maintained than engineered wood flooring. But all above those differences, engineered wood and laminate flooring are best cleaned by dry mop, brush or fabric. For these types of flooring avoid steam, water, and ammonia substances so your flooring can last longer.
Engineered Wood Flooring VS Laminate Cost
As there are differences in the materials, engineered wood flooring vs laminate costs also vary. Engineered wood flooring vs laminate cost depends on brand, thickness, pattern, and wear layer.
Engineered wood flooring may cost £47 to £200. Then laminate flooring may cost £18 to £47. For the best deal, you can check TEKA Flooring’s product on both, Laminate flooring and Engineered Wood Flooring.
Is Engineered Wood Better than Laminate?
So now you may ask, is engineered wood better than laminate? Well, it depends on your needs and how you want to plan your room or house.
You may use engineered wood flooring for the living room or your office and laminate flooring for your children’s room, kitchen, or pet room. Overall, you can choose accordingly within your plan and budget. Get a consultation for engineered wood flooring vs laminate here!
