Is Engineered Hardwood Better Than Laminate

While the flooring market has an abundance of both types of materials in most cases solid or engineered hardwood flooring is a wiser healthier and more environmentally conscious choice than laminate.

Is engineered hardwood better than laminate.

Engineered hardwood is the clear winner when it comes to longevity although laminate planks do not lag far behind. Neither laminate nor solid hardwood flooring is ideal flooring materials for truly wet locations but laminate is somewhat better for humid locations such as installation against concrete slabs. Laminate is also much thinner than engineered wood averaging around 12mm whereas engineered wood tends to be thicker like hardwoods. Because hardwood floors can last for generations they raise your home s value more than laminate floors.

Engineered hardwood can increase the resale value of your home. If you re set on having a real hardwood look an engineered hardwood is an easier installation and more affordable price point than a solid hardwood. Laminate flooring also has come advantage when it comes to heat resistance. The comparative chart below provides a quick overview of features of solid engineered and laminate flooring.

Laminate is essentially a rigid synthetic floor that s also known as composite pergo or floating wood tile. An ac rating is also helpful if you re concerned about wear and tear on your flooring. Even if the surface is kept well sealed cracks between engineered wood or laminate boards can allow moisture to penetrate to the organic substrate plywood or fiberboard causing it to swell or develop mold. Home buyers like it because it looks good and it s more durable than laminate.

Neither laminate or engineered wood is a great choice for humid damp locations although both are better than solid hardwood in these situations. Engineered hardwood is an especially good investment if you own a home with a higher value and want to protect that value. According to our friends at homeadvisor some veneers are so thin and poorly made that they can prematurely warp or fade. Also while engineered is cheaper than solid hardwood it s not cheaper than laminate or carpet.