Monday, December 29, 2008

Hardwood Flooring vs Laminate - The Choice Is Yours

When it comes to Hardwood flooring vs laminate there is no right and wrong answer but depends on your own personal taste and situation. This article will take a look at both types of flooring but the ultimate decision is a personal one.

For some consumers you cannot beat the look of real hardwood flooring with its unique rich look with no two boards that look exactly the same. To them laminate flooring looks fake as the pattern repeats over and over but for other people the appearance is realistic hardly noticing that it is not the real thing.

Durability is an important issue when it comes to hardwood flooring vs laminate. Laminate flooring is extremely durable, hard to damage or dent, and very fade, water and stain resistant. This makes laminate floors a popular choice as they are easy to maintain. For some ease of maintenance can override a less than realistic appearance. Hardwood flooring requires daily and preventative maintenance to prevent it from getting scratched, dented or from fading.

Costs is another important consideration to consumers when it comes to hardwood flooring vs laminate. Hardwood floors are more costly than laminate floors but are known to increase your homes value. So an important consideration would be how long you intend to be in your home and will you realize the increase in value.

Longevity is another important consideration as to whether you want hardwood flooring vs laminate.
Hardwood flooring can be refinished again many times over therefore lasting for a lifetime and more. Laminate floors cannot be sanded or refinished if the top layer is worn.

Installation is easier with the tongue and groove system of laminate flooring whereas hardwood flooring is more difficult. Laminate floors can also be installed in any room in the house whereas hardwood should not be installed in bathrooms or basements due to problems with moisture.

Your decision on hardwood flooring vs laminate will come down to what is the most important component in your situation. For some it will come down to looks and for them nothing beats the beauty of real wood. For others it may come down to cost and ease of maintenance are the most important components whatever you decide the choice is yours.

Carol Coutts is a successful author who provides information regarding flooring via http://www.hardwoodlaminateflooringguide.com/laminate-flooring.html For more information on bamboo flooring, hardwood flooring, laminate floors, wood flooring, and cork flooring then check out http://www.hardwoodlaminateflooringguide.com/pergo-laminate-flooring.html

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Carol_Coutts

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