Laminate Vs Engineered Real Wood Flooring: Which Should You Choose?

When looking for new flooring, no doubt engineered real wood and laminate will come up during your search. Both types of flooring have their benefits and can make an excellent addition to almost any setting. It’s important to choose the right flooring for you and your environment so that it can handle whatever you throw at it. Keep reading to find out how to choose between laminate and engineered real wood flooring. 

In this article: 

• What is the Difference Between Engineered Real Wood and Laminate Flooring? 
• Pros and Cons of Laminate and Real Wood Flooring 
• How to Choose the Best Flooring 

Engineered real wood and laminate flooring are similar in the sense they both aim to create a real wood flooring effect. The difference between the two is that laminate flooring mimics the look of natural wood, whereas engineered wood features a thick top layer of real wood. 

Laminate flooring is made of four separate layers, including a HDF core. It features a highly realistic layer that mimics the look of natural wood. The flooring is created through a process that involves high temperatures and pressures that press the separate layers together to create high-quality and long-lasting laminate flooring. 

Engineered wood flooring is created in a very different way from laminate flooring. It features a combination of artificial and natural materials to create a floorboard with a thick layer of real wood. The real wood layer creates a unique style without the hassle of installing hardwood flooring. 

There are clear differences in the way that laminate and engineered wood flooring are made. Because of these big differences, there are pros and cons to each type. With varying constructions and features, some environments are suited more to one type of flooring than another. 

Pros of engineered wood: 

• Looks like real, natural wood 
• Can be sanded and refinished 
• Comes in a range of designs, colours, grains, and shades
• Easy to install 
• Compatible with underfloor heating 

Cons of engineered wood: 

• More expensive than laminate flooring 

Pros of laminate flooring:

• Cost-effective 
• Many brands can look very authentic to real wood
• Range of colours and designs 
• Durable 
• Scratch-resistant
• Moisture-resistant 
• Easy to install and maintain 

Cons of laminate flooring: 

• Not real wood 
• Not 100% waterproof 
• Need underlay for a quieter laminate floor 

As you can see, there are pros and cons to each type of flooring. In general, you can install both types of flooring in various residential and commercial settings. You can install them in bedrooms, living rooms, kitchens, and entrance halls, as well as commercial use. 

The main difference between laminate and engineered wood flooring is the real wood finish, cost, and durability. For DIY lovers and pet households, laminate is a great option. The simple tongue and interlocking groove system of laminate and scratch-resistant properties make it ideal for pets. But in terms of durability and resale value, engineered wood can add more value to your home. 

Both laminate and engineered wood flooring are strong, durable, and less expensive than hardwood floors. The best option for you really depends on figuring out what factors are most important to you.