Hardwood or Laminate?
You don't need to watch HGTV every day to know the big debate between hardwood and laminate floors. Many people are firmly on one side or the other. Though some think that laminate is best because it is affordable and comes in fun designs, others believe that you can never go wrong with hardwood. Now is the perfect time to settle the debate once and for all with a look at when you should choose hardwood vs. laminate floors.
Overall look
Start with a look at the appearance of both materials. Hardwood is popular because it uses natural wood and has designs you can't get with laminate floors. You'll see tiny imperfections in the wood that add to the appearance. Another benefit is that you can buy a cheaper type of wood and stain it to make it look like a more expensive type. Laminate is much cheaper and comes in even more designs. You'll also find that laminate usually doesn't show as much wear and tear as hardwood does. Laminate flooring even comes in some trendy colors.
Cost
You probably already know that laminate costs less than hardwood does, but you may not realize just how much less it costs until you meet with Home Remedy or another Des Moines company. Hardwood flooring can cost as much as $10 per square foot and even more. If you need to cover a 100-square-foot room, you'll spend a lot more if you choose to go with hardwood. Laminate flooring costs as little as $3 per square foot, though some types cost as much as $7 per square foot. You may find that the cost of hardwood flooring rises because it takes more time to install.
General care and maintenance
If you're in the market for floors that are easy to care for and maintain, go with laminate. Not only is laminate cheaper to repair, but it generally looks the same even after years of walking on it. It costs a lot of money to restore hardwood floors. These floors can show a lot of damage from pets and people walking or running across the floor. A company like HOME+ can both install and refinish the floor for you.
Which flooring is the best?
When it comes right down to it, the best type of flooring for you depends on what you need. Hardwood floors are best for those who want to add value to their Des Moines homes and don't mind doing more maintenance. Laminate floors are best for those who want to save money and get floors that are easy to clean. Some also prefer laminate because it comes in so many different designs that allow them to show off their personality.
You don't need to waste time comparing flooring types when you renovate your home because we make it easy for you to find the right one. Find even more flooring ideas on Instagram. Follow us today to get help with any renovations you have in mind.
