In the world of flooring, DIYers and industry professionals alike rely on balancing the cost versus the return on many home construction materials. Home flooring, for example, relies on durable protection and a quality shine to provide the most value for the consumer. We have been asked time and time again about the worth of laminate versus hardwood flooring, which can be akin to comparing apples to oranges. In terms of quality, many builders believe in the tried and true results of hardwood. However, DIYers and professionals are now relying on laminate flooring as a cost-effective alternative that provides the right level of support more economically.
Home renovators will often elect to invest in a flooring underlayment to provide the perfect level of support and comfort needed to help families in single- or multi-family structures achieve the best results. Eco Cork Foam is here to serve as an ideal floor underlayment for both laminate and hardwood flooring, and our product is available to smooth out minor imperfections and create an ideal surface for your new material.
Today, we’ll compare the benefits of laminate and hardwood flooring, as well as how our flooring underlayment can protect your new investment.
Composition
Solid hardwood floors consist of 100 percent real wood, while engineered hardwood relies on an all-natural finish layer with plywood underneath. In terms of quality, hardwood floors will tend to hold up more than laminate, although advances in laminate flooring have made it a top contender in the industry. Laminate relies on fiberboard with a high-quality image printed for the finish. This layer is topped with a protective wear layer, which helps to keep moisture out.
Ease of Installation
When it comes to the installation process, laminate flooring holds an edge in terms of DIY installation. Keep in mind that these premade materials come as a floating floor system, allowing home renovators to move and click the planks or tiles into place. Hardwood, on the other hand, will need to be secured to the subfloor and adjusted by hand. Many DIYers advocate for laminate installs because they are easier to do and can yield amazing results.
Floor Finishes
If you’ve invested in prefinished hardwood or laminate flooring, then you’ll be happy to know that the surface of your new floor system will be ready to go once the installation is complete. Laminate is built to provide an outstanding finish that will last for years, while hardwood benefits from being able to be finished multiple times before replacement is necessary.
Durability
Proper care can help to keep your laminate flooring in beautiful shape for a decade. The minimal amount of maintenance needed for this floor system will make it easy to take the best care of your floors, enhancing the longevity of their looks and performance. Hardwood tends to be softer but can be refinished multiple times over the decades.
Damage Resistance
The true value of your investment will come in the form of how your floor system holds up to years of use. Modern laminate flooring can withstand serious punishment for years without wearing down, while hardwood outcomes can depend on the species utilized. Wood varies in hardness, and the denser materials will prove an excellent barrier from damages. The overall price of your hardwood will depend largely on its protective benefits, so be prepared to spend more if you are looking for long-term protection.
The low cost of Eco Cork Foam makes it a surefire way to enhance the outcome for your flooring project. Our floor underlayment features industry-leading advantages, including uncompromised strength and moisture protection. Check out the value of our moisture barrier before buying a roll!
Resale Value
The quality of your floor material will play a large role in its resale value. In today’s market, buyers are willing to spend more on a high-quality laminate. In most cases, though, hardwood floors will be able to recoup costs based on boosting renovation values. It’s important to remember that the condition of your hardwood will determine how much your floors are worth. In cases like this, it pays to utilize a quality floor underlayment to provide lasting protection.
Try Our Floor Underlayment
Eco Cork Foam is here to serve as your trusted flooring underlayment for laminate and hardwood floors. The lab-certified results of our material ensure that you will be satisfied with the results. Check out ECF’s data reports to see how our product stacks up against the competition.
Next time, we’ll conclude this series by discussing the overall cost of laminate and hardwood flooring, as well as the benefits afforded by our floor underlayment. ECF is designed to be used for the best results in varying applications. Contact us online to learn more about the quality of our USA-made product, or shop the Home Depot to find a roll for yourself!