Is Laminate Considered Hardwood

Solid hardwood flooring as the name suggests is comprised of flooring boards that are solid hardwood material through and through.

Is laminate considered hardwood. Times have changed and while laminates may not last as long as solid hardwoods they are more durable and attractive than ever making a choice between the two materials difficult. Laminate flooring hardly adds real estate value to a home although considered better than some traditional floorings such as carpet and vinyl. While some hardwood floors are being tailored for the diy market laminate which is considered simpler to install has long been viewed as the go. A high sheen level usually indicates a protective finish.

Laminate floors have a relatively short life span as compared to hardwood. This material is considered an economic choice so it doesn t do much to impress appraisers or prospective home buyers. The boards usually 3 4 inch thick are generally milled with a smooth top surface and tongue and groove edges that interlock to hold the boards together. Because there is a wood layer at the top it is more prone to scratches and showing basic wear and tear and requires a hardwood care and maintenance regimen.

This layer is then topped with synthetic fiberboards for strength. For many years laminate was considered to be a cheaper less durable alternative to hardwood. However some finished laminate floors have a matte or low sheen top coat and some bare flooring. Most hardwood floors have excellent resistance to coca cola red wine and many household chemicals.

Still in order to preserve the beauty of the floor for many years to come it is important to quickly clean up all spills and clean the floor regularly. Laminate flooring and engineered wood flooring are two obvious choices if you want a flooring that looks like solid hardwood but at a more affordable price. Engineered hardwoods come in almost any species and color. Once the plank is assembled a real hardwood veneer is placed on top giving it the hardwood classification.

The bottom layer is called the stabilizing layer which is designed to resist moisture. However a poor quality model can bring down a property s value. Laminates do offer a bonus for handy homeowners. At most high quality laminate can moderately raise a home s value.

Laminate floors are made of several layers of durable materials. Both floor coverings were developed as economical and versatile alternatives to that mainstay of flooring material solid hardwood flooring. A photographic layer goes above the fiberboards creating the design.