One of the biggest decisions you have to make when it comes to your flooring is whether you want to use real wood or laminate. Wood plank flooring is quite popular but would you prefer the real thing or laminate that just looks like wood plank flooring? If you are not sure whether a solid oak floor or laminate is the better choice for you, there are a few pointers to consider.
Obviously the main reason people opt for real hardwood flooring is for its appearance. Real hardwood is very aesthetically appealing and looks beautiful in any room of the home. Hardwood flooring makes a room warm, luxurious and can work in traditional as well as contemporary designs. However, with the laminate flooring you can get the same look as hardwood. Although some people may be able to tell it is not the real thing, at first appearance it looks just like it. You can find laminated wood floor in a variety of styles and colors.
Real wood plank flooring is one of the more expensive options for flooring. It can cost upwards of a few hundred dollars just for a small area so you definitely need to have a proper budget available for the real hardwood. Laminate, on the other hand, is much more affordable. Laminate flooring costs a fraction of the real thing.
The durability of these floors is much different as well. Although laminate flooring is much cheaper, that is for a reason. It is not nearly as durable and long lasting as real hardwood flooring. Scuffs and nicks on the floor will show up whereas they typically will not on real hardwood. With real wood plank floors they will last over the years and still stay in perfect condition. Laminate floors may need touch ups over the years if you notice wear and tear showing.
It is important to consider the pros and cons of both types of flooring, in order to make the decision on which is right for you.