Is Engineered Wood Better Than Laminate

Laminate and engineered wood floors are both very popular alternatives to hardwood floor but they are not created equal.

Is engineered wood better than laminate.

For many folks that ends the laminate vs. Though engineered wood is not made out of 100 solid wood you can think of it as smart hardwood a real hardwood floor that is more versatile than a solid wood plank. Engineered wood contains a slice of natural wood on top while laminate uses a photographic layer that is coated with a protective layer. Neither laminate or engineered wood is a great choice for humid damp locations although both are better than solid hardwood in these situations.

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. It is true that engineered flooring can be more costly than laminate flooring but provides a better investment value over the long run. Engineered floors will have a higher price depending on the top wood veneer thickness style species and brand. Engineered wood floors can be used even in those areas whit light moisture such as basements kitchens and bathrooms.

Laminate is also much thinner than engineered wood averaging around 12mm whereas engineered wood tends to be thicker like hardwoods. Ultimately engineered wood will always look better than laminate particularly when looked at closely. Engineered hardwood debate right there. Although they are made from similar materials they have key differences that make one option better than the other depending on where the flooring is going in your home.

Comparing to other wood flooring products the engineered flooring is a better choice. Engineered wood flooring has a similar construction as laminate except the top decorative layer is a thick veneer of real wood protected by a coating of a clear acrylic. Cheaper versions have 1 4 inch cores and the photo reproductions may not be as realistic as more expensive versions. For some only solid hardwood will do but for many the pros of an engineered wood floor often tip the scales.

The natural top layer makes engineered wood just as durable as traditional hardwood and provides the same classic timeless look. If price plays a role in your decision engineered hardwood flooring will generally be a higher price but it is not always the case. Care laminate durability maintenance laminate is slightly easier to clean and take care of when compared to engineered flooring.