When it comes to choosing flooring for your renovation or new home, wooden and laminate flooring are two popular choices. Each type has its own unique features and benefits, making the decision a tough one. Often, cost becomes a factor in the decision, so which is the best choice – timber flooring or laminate?
Both engineered timber flooring and laminates are very durable, hardwearing options for a busy family home, but there are key differences.
Wooden flooring exudes a timeless and natural charm, adding warmth and elegance to any space. It offers durability and versatility, with various wood species and finishes to suit your style. On the other hand, laminate flooring provides a cost-effective alternative that mimics the look of real wood. It is resistant to scratches, stains, and fading, making it ideal for high-traffic areas.
To determine the best choice, it's essential to consider factors such as budget, lifestyle, and personal preferences. Are you looking for a luxurious and authentic feel, or do you prefer a more affordable and low-maintenance option?
In this article, we will weigh the pros and cons of wooden and laminate flooring, helping you make an informed decision for your home. Whether you're going for a classic, rustic look or a modern, sleek aesthetic, we'll guide you through the process of choosing the perfect flooring solution.
A laminate is most often constructed on a fibreboard or plastic core, with a high-resolution image of wood on top to simulate real timber.
VidaSpace engineered timber flooring comes in a variety of construction techniques, with the common three being a lamella pressed onto a cross-laminated ply core, a lamella on a three-layer core, or a real timber veneer on an HDF core.
Laminate flooring has gained popularity in recent years as a cost-effective alternative to real wood. Here are some of the pros and cons to consider:
Wooden flooring is known for its natural beauty and timeless appeal. Here are some of the pros and cons to consider:
When deciding between wooden and laminate flooring, several factors need to be taken into consideration. Here are some key factors to help you make an informed decision:
Wooden flooring is generally more expensive than laminate flooring. If you have a limited budget, laminate flooring provides a cost-effective alternative that can still achieve the desired aesthetic, but for a shorter lifespan.
We recommend you determine your budget and consider the cost of both wooden and laminate flooring options and remember to factor in additional costs such as installation, underlayment, and maintenance when comparing prices.
Consider your lifestyle and the amount of foot traffic your floors will endure. If you have children or pets, flooring that has better durability and resistance to scratches and stains may be a more practical choice.
Wooden flooring adds a touch of elegance and sophistication, while laminate flooring can provide a modern and sleek look. Both offer versatility in different design and style options.
Consider the overall style and aesthetic you want to achieve in your home. Think about how each flooring type will complement your existing décor and personal style.
Assess your lifestyle and consider the level of maintenance you are willing to commit to. Wooden flooring requires more regular care and maintenance but offers greater longevity, while laminate flooring is relatively low-maintenance and easy to clean but may need to be replaced sooner. Consider the level of foot traffic in your home, the presence of pets, and the potential for spills or accidents.
Evaluate the moisture levels in your home and the specific areas where the flooring will be installed. Wooden flooring is generally not recommended for high-moisture areas, while laminate flooring can handle moderate moisture levels. Take into account the specific needs of each room to ensure the flooring choice is suitable.
If sustainability is important to you, wooden flooring made from responsibly sourced materials will be a more eco-friendly choice. Laminate flooring is often made from synthetic materials, which will have a higher environmental impact.
One of the major factors that influence the decision between wooden and laminate flooring is the cost. Let's compare the costs of both options:
Wooden flooring costs can vary significantly depending on factors such as the type of wood, quality, and installation method. On average, engineered wood flooring can range from $100 to $300+ per square meter, not including installation. Exotic wood species and special finishes can increase the cost further.
Laminate flooring, on the other hand, is much more affordable. It typically ranges from $60 to $100 per square meter, not including installation. The cost may vary depending on the quality and brand of the laminate.
When researching the cost of a flooring product, it is important to consider the lifespan and long-term costs. You may spend half the price on the initial product, for it to only last a quarter of the time – so are you really saving money? Wooden flooring may require refinishing every 10-15 years, which can add to the overall cost. Laminate flooring, on the other hand, may need to be replaced entirely once it starts showing signs of wear and tear.
It has been proven that the feelings of natural warmth and comfort of wood in the home can lower blood pressure and heart rates, reduce stress and anxiety, and has been shown to improve indoor air quality.
It has positive physiological and psychological benefits that mimic the effect of spending time outside in nature.
Living with real timber will improve your health and wellbeing.
Read more about Harnessing the Healing Power of Wood
When it comes to installing real wood flooring or laminate flooring, the choice between professional installation and a DIY approach hinges on various factors.
Professional installation offers the expertise of seasoned professionals who can ensure precise measurements, seamless transitions, and proper subfloor preparation, which is particularly crucial for real wood flooring. Their proficiency often results in a flawless finish and can save time and effort for homeowners.
On the other hand, opting for a DIY installation may appeal to those with a knack for home improvement or looking to save on installation costs. DIY projects can provide a sense of accomplishment and allow for a more hands-on approach, especially with laminate flooring, which often comes with straightforward click-and-lock installation systems. However, DIY installations require meticulous attention to detail and may lack the finesse and efficiency of professional work, potentially leading to imperfections or even damage to the flooring material.
Ultimately, the decision between professional installation and DIY depends on one's skill level, time availability, budget, and the desired quality of the final result.
For a little more initial outlay, you can invest in a product that is durable, easy to clean, with enough timber on the top wear layer to sand back.
VidaSpaces’ PurePlank range is a great option for home renovations and new builds. Finished with a commercial grade lacquer, all products in this range are very low maintenance, and extremely durable. With a 2.5mm European Oak wear layer, you have the ability to sand twice over the span of its life, rejuvenating the floor and giving it a new life over and over.
With 6 different styles and colours, you can really get creative with your design. A variety of grades of timber, from classic with minimal knots, to character with more feature and knots.
Explore PurePlank Timber Flooring Collection
For the budget conscious, a thicker oak wear layer may not be a viable option, however, our Parky veneer flooring range will tick all the boxes.
Parky is constructed of a real European Oak veneer, on an HDF core. It is finished with 7 layers of UV cured lacquer, creating the most scratch-resistant surface available on a real wood floor.
Parky is real timber, so each plank will have unique grain and characteristics, whereas a laminate lacks visual authenticity due to repeats of pattern across planks. Real timber also creates a warm environment, with a soft underfoot feel, which is impossible to replicate in imitation products.
With a commercial grade lacquer finish, it is just as easy to clean and maintain as a laminate flooring. With Aqua-Seal painted on each join, and a moisture-resistant HDF core, Parky is our most water-resistant flooring and is proven to be 12 hours waterproof, so you can rest assured this is a great product for all living areas of the home, including the kitchen.
Where laminate has on average a 10 – 20-year lifespan, Parky carries a limited lifetime residential warranty. Choosing a Parky veneer flooring will give you double the life for the same price.
Available in a range of 2 widths, across 10 colour ways, you’ll be sure to find a colour and style to suit your home.
Explore Parky Timber Flooring Collection
Choosing between wooden and laminate flooring ultimately comes down to your specific needs, preferences, and budget.
Both wooden and laminate flooring have their own advantages and considerations. Wooden flooring offers natural beauty, durability, and a timeless appeal, while laminate flooring provides affordability and low maintenance. It's important to weigh the pros and cons, consider your specific needs, and make an informed decision based on your budget, lifestyle, and style preferences. By doing so, you can choose the perfect flooring solution that will enhance the beauty and functionality of your home for years to come.
Elevate your interior with VidaSpace. Contact us and one of our team of trained interior designers will be able to guide you through the process.
