When it comes to flooring options, laminate and hardwood flooring often emerge as popular choices among homeowners. Each has its own unique characteristics and advantages, so it’s important to weigh the pros and cons of each material before making a decision. Ultimately, the best flooring option for you will depend on your individual needs and budget. If you are looking for a cost-effective and durable flooring option, laminate is a great choice. If you are looking for a luxurious and timeless flooring option, hardwood is a better choice. From the cost to the durability and maintenance, we explore all of the essential factors – read on to learn more.
Cost
Cost is one of the most important factors to take into consideration when choosing flooring for your home. We all have different budgets and there are a wide range of flooring options to suit each level of budget. Here is a look at the differences between laminate and hardwood;
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Laminate
One of the most compelling advantages of laminate flooring is its cost-effectiveness. Laminate typically costs between €1 and €4 per square foot, making it a budget-friendly choice. Furthermore, the installation costs are generally more affordable, as laminate flooring is easier and quicker to install.
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Hardwood
In contrast, hardwood flooring is often seen as a premium option. Prices for hardwood start from €3 and can go up to €10 or even more per square foot for exotic varieties. The installation is usually more complex and labour-intensive, leading to higher costs.
Durability
Now, let’s take a look at the durability comparison;
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Laminate
Laminate flooring is composed of compressed wood, adorned with a photographic image of hardwood and sealed with a transparent protective layer. This construction makes it remarkably resistant to scratches, dents, and stains, making it an ideal option for homes with pets or children.
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Hardwood
Solid wood floors, however, are more prone to scratches and dents. On the upside, they can be sanded and refinished multiple times. If well-maintained, hardwood flooring can last for decades, making it a long-term investment.
Maintenance
Maintenance is another important factor to take into account. Ideally, you don’t want to have to do lots of maintenance with your flooring. Here’s how laminate and hardwood compare;
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Laminate
Maintaining laminate flooring is generally straightforward. Regular sweeping or hoovering, coupled with the occasional damp mop using a laminate-friendly cleaner, usually suffices. However, laminate flooring is not suitable for moisture-rich environments like bathrooms, as excess water can lead to warping.
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Hardwood
On the other hand, hardwood floors necessitate more diligent upkeep. They may require periodic sanding and refinishing, especially in areas that see a lot of footfall. You’ll also need to be cautious about moisture, as hardwood can warp if exposed to water for prolonged periods.
Aesthetic Appeal
Lastly, the style and aesthetics of these two types of floors differ too, so it’s worth knowing what to expect before you choose.
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Laminate
Whilst modern manufacturing methods have significantly improved the visual appeal of laminate flooring, it still falls short of the natural warmth and depth offered by hardwood floors. Nonetheless, the broad range of styles and colours available makes laminate versatile enough for diverse interior designs.
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Hardwood
Hardwood flooring brings an unparalleled aesthetic appeal that adds a touch of luxury and timeless elegance to any space. The natural grains, variations, and textures offer a depth that laminate simply can’t match. Furthermore, hardwood is available in a variety of species, colours, and finishes, allowing for a high degree of personalisation.
Laminate Flooring in Dublin for Your Home
At Canadia, we offer an extensive range of laminate flooring options that perfectly combine affordability, durability, and style. Our laminate floors are highly popular for their hard-wearing nature and easy installation, making them ideal for both modern and traditional homes. Constructed from high-quality MDF or HDF (high-density fibreboard), our laminate flooring features a decorative paper layer that is pressure-bonded with a clear lamination for added durability. This makes them resistant to everyday wear and tear.
The planks are expertly machined with a profile on all four sides, allowing for a seamless click-together installation without the need for glue. Whether you prefer the warm tones of Albi Honey Oak or the modern elegance of Bordeaux Oak Grey, we have a colour and style to suit every interior. With various finishes, thicknesses, and AC ratings, our laminate flooring range is as versatile as it is attractive. Any questions? Call us on 01 461 0997 or email us at info@canadia.ie.