One of the most common questions we hear is: "Should I go with hardwood or laminate?" It's a fair question, and the honest answer is — it depends on your situation. Here's a straightforward comparison to help you decide.
Cost Comparison
Hardwood typically costs more upfront, ranging from $8–$15 per square foot for materials plus $4–$8 per square foot for professional installation. However, hardwood adds significant value to your home and can last a lifetime with proper care.
Laminate is more budget-friendly, typically $3–$7 per square foot for materials and $2–$4 for installation. While it provides excellent value, it doesn't add the same resale value as real hardwood.
Durability
Hardwood is susceptible to scratches, dents, and moisture damage, but can be sanded and refinished multiple times over its lifetime — essentially making it renewable. A well-maintained hardwood floor can last over 100 years.
Laminate features a tough wear layer that resists scratches better than hardwood in the short term. However, once damaged, laminate cannot be refinished — individual planks must be replaced. Most laminate floors last 15–25 years.
Aesthetics
Hardwood provides an authentic, natural beauty that's difficult to replicate. Each plank has unique grain patterns, and the wood develops a richer patina over time. There's a warmth and character to real wood that most people can feel and see.
Modern laminate has come a long way — premium brands offer remarkably realistic wood-grain textures and visuals. At a glance, high-quality laminate can fool many people. Up close or underfoot, though, the difference is noticeable.
Maintenance
Hardwood requires regular sweeping, occasional damp mopping with wood-safe cleaners, and periodic refinishing (every 7–10 years depending on traffic). Spills should be wiped up promptly.
Laminate is low-maintenance — regular sweeping and occasional damp mopping is all it needs. It's more forgiving with spills, especially waterproof varieties.
Best Use Cases
Choose Hardwood When:
- You're investing in your forever home
- Resale value is important
- You want authentic natural beauty
- The space is a living room, bedroom, or dining room
- You appreciate a floor that improves with age
Choose Laminate When:
- You're working with a tight budget
- The space is a rental property
- You need maximum scratch resistance (pets, high traffic)
- You want a quick, easy installation
- The space is a basement or area prone to moisture (waterproof laminate)
Our Honest Take
As flooring professionals, we install both hardwood and laminate — and we believe both have their place. We never push hardwood on a client when laminate is the smarter choice for their situation. The best floor is the one that fits your life, your space, and your budget.
Want to discuss which option is right for your project? Get in touch for a free consultation.