If you are considering flooring for your home, you might be wondering whether Engineered Hardwood Vs Laminate is the right choice for you.
After all, these types of floors are both durable and able to resist scratches and warping, three problems that laminate floors tend to experience. This article will provide you with some information about the difference between these types of floors.
Engineered Hardwood is More Durable Than Laminate
It is stronger and more stable than laminate. In most cases, it is also easier to install. The base for both types of wood is typically plywood. The other advantage of it is that it can be refinished for decades, whereas laminate cannot. This means that you must install a stable subfloor to install it.
It is also environmentally friendly. The wood core is made from fast-growing plywood, and the veneer is made from slow-growing wood. The veneer on either laminate or engineered hardwood flooring is then sliced rather than sawed, which means less sawdust and less wood waste. Furthermore, the plywood used as the backing is usually recycled, resulting in a higher percentage of natural materials in engineered wood than in laminate flooring.
It is also more resistant to moisture than laminate. Because the layers of the wood are tightly compressed, they prevent moisture from penetrating the wood. Still, if it gets wet, veneer or plywood can rot or grow mold. If moisture is an issue, you can use rugs to protect the floors.
When it comes to durability, the debate between laminate and engineered wood gets more complicated. A higher-end synthetic will last a longer time than a lower-end one. A higher-end synthetic will also be more appealing to the eye. On the other hand, a laminate made from lower-grade materials will not look nearly as good as a solid wood floor.
While laminate and engineered wood look similar, the differences between the two are considerable. It contains a layer of genuine wood on top, while laminate uses a photographic photo. This means that the former is more durable. Also, the latter has more color options. It can be refinished several times.
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Engineered Hardwood Avoids Warping
It is made with a special process that makes it less prone to warping and shrinking. Its grain pattern is a good indicator of how stable the wood is. Warping is caused by moisture (www.familyhandyman.com/article/what-to-know-about-warped-wood/) and wood with high moisture content shrinks as it dries. On the other hand, wood with low moisture content swells as it absorbs water from the air.
Although the ambient air temperature can influence the rate at which the moisture content of wood changes, the temperature of the wood itself does not significantly affect the equilibrium moisture content of the wood. It avoids warping because it is made from several layers of wood, each with different directions.
This construction prevents the wood from warping, even in moist areas. It is also available below ground, which is another advantage. It is also easy to maintain and care for. It can be made from a variety of wood species and finishes, including the latest trends in hickory, oak, and maple.
Engineered Hardwood Avoids Water Damage
Engineered wood flooring is an excellent choice for rooms in homes that are susceptible to water damage. Engineered hardwood planks typically have an aluminum oxide finish, which prevents water from penetrating the wood’s surface. However, this coating is only effective against a limited amount of moisture.
If you live in an area that experiences constant humidity, it is best to go with porcelain tiles or other waterproof flooring options. Engineered hardwood flooring is very durable and can withstand high traffic. It can last from ten to thirty years in normal conditions.
The thickest planks can be refinished a couple of times, while thinner planks can only be refinished once. If you plan to refinish your flooring more than once, make sure you use a wood floor cleaner without acids, vinegar, or oils. In addition, you can also refinish your wood flooring by painting it if you want to.
Engineered Hardwood Avoids Scratching
It is a great option for those who are concerned about scratching their floors. These floors can be easily repaired after they get scratched. While this type of flooring is not as durable as solid hardwood, you can still maintain its appearance with proper maintenance.
This flooring is stainable so you can add color and consistency to your room. Also, staining will help you blend in repaired scratches. During the day, you should remove your footwear from your floors to prevent scratching. Avoid wearing shoes with cleats and high heels that can scratch the surface of your floor.
You should also try not to wear shoes with spiked soles. They can cause deep scratches. Another important thing to do is to use entry mats to prevent water, grit, and salt from getting onto your hardwood floors.
