The choice between hardwood floors and laminate flooring is a common dilemma facing many home-owners. While the two are superficially similar in appearance they do have distinctly different properties. The biggest difference is, of course, that of cost. This is why many people who love the look of timber flooring but can't afford it, choose laminate. In addition, laminate is far easier to clean and maintain in a good condition than hardwood. However, there are also many reasons why many people would prefer hardwood flooring, even at the additional expense. Here is a summary of the benefits of each.

Laminate Flooring

1. Economical - this is probably the key reason for choosing laminate, as it usually offers the best value over the long-term, compared to other flooring materials. Compared to hardwood, which will require 3-5 refinishing treatments over a 25-year period, laminate flooring is a more cost-effective option.
2. Durable - another key reason for choosing laminate, particularly for families with children and pets. Laminate is flooring material that is specifically designed for high traffic areas and thus outperforms many other flooring options in this regard. Most have a very hard and durable top-layer finish, which is also scratch and dent-resistant - in particular, compared to hardwood floors. In fact, most good manufacturers will offer a 25-year warranty for any wear and damage of the laminate flooring.
3. Moisture-resistant - unlike hardwood, laminate can cope with environments which have high humidity and moisture levels (such as bathrooms and kitchens). In this respect, it has a huge advantage over hardwood which is susceptible to cupping, warping and gaping due to expansion and contraction.
4. Stain-resistant - another advantage of laminates is that they are more stain-resistant than hardwood floors and will also not fade in strong sunlight.
5. Installation - loved by DIY enthusiasts, laminate is incredibly easy to install, particularly the latest glueless, click & lock systems which easily snap into place. It can also be installed over many existing floor types, even concrete as it is a floating floor system which is designed to adjust to temperature and humidity fluctuations.
6. Easy to care for - just like hardwood, laminate only requires a regular vacuum followed by a damp mop to keep it clean. In addition, it has the advantage that if sections are irreversibly damaged, they can be removed and replaced easily.
7. Range of styles - there is probably no greater range of colours, styles and designs which gives great flexibility and scope when considering interior décor for the environment.
8. Laminate has similar health benefits to hardwood flooring.
With almost equal benefits and advantages, the choice may really come down to one of personal finances and preference, as well as the needs of the house

Laminate flooring is ideal for areas that see a lot of traffic. It doesn't show wear as quickly as hardwood does, and cleaning is much easier. While hardwood requires oil and frequent cleaning by hand, laminate just needs a broom and a mop. It's hard to damage laminate flooring, which makes it good for households with small children or pets. A laminate floor won't show scuffs and scratches. You won't need to worry about buffing it out every few years.