Is Laminate Considered Hardwood

Once the plank is assembled a real hardwood veneer is placed on top giving it the hardwood classification.

Is laminate considered hardwood.

A high sheen level usually indicates a protective finish. The bottom layer is called the stabilizing layer which is designed to resist moisture. However some finished laminate floors have a matte or low sheen top coat and some bare flooring. Laminate floors have a relatively short life span as compared to hardwood.

Both floor coverings were developed as economical and versatile alternatives to that mainstay of flooring material solid hardwood flooring. At most high quality laminate can moderately raise a home s value. The boards usually 3 4 inch thick are generally milled with a smooth top surface and tongue and groove edges that interlock to hold the boards together. A photographic layer goes above the fiberboards creating the design.

This layer is then topped with synthetic fiberboards for strength. However a poor quality model can bring down a property s value. Times have changed and while laminates may not last as long as solid hardwoods they are more durable and attractive than ever making a choice between the two materials difficult. Still in order to preserve the beauty of the floor for many years to come it is important to quickly clean up all spills and clean the floor regularly.

Inspect the floor for a glossy sheen. Laminate flooring and engineered wood flooring are two obvious choices if you want a flooring that looks like solid hardwood but at a more affordable price. For many years laminate was considered to be a cheaper less durable alternative to hardwood. Laminates do offer a bonus for handy homeowners.

Resistance solid hardwood floors are vulnerable to water or heat. Solid hardwood flooring as the name suggests is comprised of flooring boards that are solid hardwood material through and through. Engineered hardwoods come in almost any species and color. Most hardwood floors have excellent resistance to coca cola red wine and many household chemicals.

Laminate floors are made of several layers of durable materials. Laminate flooring hardly adds real estate value to a home although considered better than some traditional floorings such as carpet and vinyl. Because there is a wood layer at the top it is more prone to scratches and showing basic wear and tear and requires a hardwood care and maintenance regimen.