When it comes to choosing the right flooring for your property, can become challenging as there are various flooring types and products. Engineered timber and laminate are the two most common flooring options which are welcomed by many owners due to their natural beauty, longevity, easy maintenance, and affordable cost. In this article, we are going to compare these two popular flooring types to help you better decide about your flooring options.
An overview of laminate flooring
Laminate is a synthetic flooring product that consists of several layers. The main layer of the laminate is a high-density fiberboard and the top layer an image of wood, stone, or tile which is covered with a transparent maintenance layer, keeping it safe from scratches, dents, and wear. Laminate flooring provides you with the beauty of natural materials at an affordable price.
An overview of engineered timber flooring
Engineered timber, on the other hand, is a natural flooring product that consists of real hardwood layers that are adhered to the layers of plywood or high-density fiberboard (HDF). Engineered timber flooring is a resistant option in temperature and humidity-changing conditions and it is less vulnerable to changes in appearance. This type of flooring provides you with natural wood beauty while it is easier to maintain and install.
Engineered timber vs. laminate flooring appearance
When choosing a flooring option between engineered timber and laminate, the first thing you need to consider is their look. Engineered timber flooring is made of real hardwood and it contains the natural beauty of wood with warm wooden colors and texture. This option can add warmth and luxurious character to any space.
On the other hand, laminate flooring covers a wide range of designs as it is made of synthetic materials and it can be available in different looks like wood and stone. This flooring option may not have the same depth of wood beauty as engineered timber, but it provides you with a stylish appearance while being on a budget.
Durability and lifespan of engineered timber vs. laminate flooring
Durability is another crucial factor that should be considered when deciding on a flooring option. Engineered timber flooring is well-known for its durability. This layered construction flooring type is made of real wood that can be polished and refinished from time to time to get a fresh look and a longer lifespan. Engineered timber flooring is highly resistant to temperature and humidity changes, but it is still vulnerable to dents and scratches, especially in high-traffic areas.
Laminate flooring is a highly durable option that is resistant to scratches. This flooring option contains a top coverage layer that protects the surfaces from damage, but it cannot be like timber flooring refinished. If it gets damaged considerably, it should be replaced.
Laminate vs. engineered timber flooring installation
The installation process of laminate and engineered timber flooring is completely different from each other. Engineered timber flooring installation can be done using methods like glue-down, floating, or nail-down. This flooring type can be installed on various subfloors like concrete and it is a suitable option for places like basements.
Laminate flooring installation can be done on a floating floor. It means the laminate is not attached to the subfloor which makes it an easy-to-install flooring option. Laminate flooring can be installed on various existing floors if they are in good and level condition, but it may need an underlayment for moisture and sound protection.
💡If you are looking for a step-by-step laminate flooring installation guide, you can read our article “How to install laminate flooring yourself on a weekend?”
Cost comparison: Engineered timber vs. laminate flooring
Flooring cost is another important factor to consider when deciding on a flooring option. Engineered timber flooring is generally higher in price in comparison to laminate flooring as it consists of real wood and the production process is harder than laminate. The cost of engineered timber can vary depending on the quality of the products.
On the other hand, laminate flooring is a more affordable option which is a suitable solution for the owners who are looking for a budget-friendly but still high quality and nice flooring type. Laminate flooring can provide great features for its price considering its durability, easy maintenance, and various designs.
Laminate and engineered timber flooring maintenance comparison
Maintaining engineered timber and laminate flooring is not hard but different. For maintaining engineered timber flooring, you need to use a vacuum or damp cloth with wood-specific cleaner material to remove dust and dirt. If there are spills of liquids, they should be immediately dried and cleaned to prevent moisture damage to the flooring. By regularly refinishing and polishing the surface of engineered flooring, you can keep it always fresh and clean.
Laminate flooring maintenance is almost easier as it can be cleaned with a simple damp mop or vacuum. As laminate flooring is resistant to low moisture, it is less vulnerable to water or moisture damage. But still, excessive moisture should be immediately cared for to prevent damage to the flooring.
Engineered timber and laminate flooring environmental impacts
Another important factor that has been considered in recent years is sustainability. Engineered timber flooring can be a more sustainable option compared to laminate if it is made from responsibly managed forests. Some engineered timber manufacturers provide products that are specifically certified by responsible organizations which ensures the products’ eco-friendliness.
Laminate flooring may be a less eco-friendly option due to the synthetic materials used in the production procedure. However, there are still manufacturers that use recycled materials to produce products with less harmful environmental impacts.
Conclusion: Which one is the best?
Deciding between laminate flooring and engineered timber flooring completely depends on your personal interest, budget, and interior design of your place. Both flooring types offer their exclusive features that look interesting for individuals. Engineered timber is a classy and chic flooring option with real wood texture and warmth, adding character to your place. This is while laminate flooring is a more affordable flooring option which is available in a wider range of colors and textures. It is easier to maintain and install compared to engineered timber flooring. If you still doubt about choosing between these two flooring options, you can contact our flooring experts based in Melbourne to find detailed information about each product.