Laminate hardwood flooring is a flooring option that comes really close to hardwood as far as looks and durability are concerned. But they are much lower in price. If you are a person who is confused about hardwood vs laminate flooring, then this article should help you decide which one is better.

Traditional Hardwood
Hardwood is one of the most versatile flooring materials ever. They can compliment all kinds of colors and shades with ease. You can choose any kind of hardwood flooring even if your room has a theme based design. From dark teak and oak planks to the more contemporary mahogany ones, hardwood flooring is extremely versatile. Cleaning is also relatively easier than some of the other flooring types.

Laminate Hardwood Flooring
Hardwood laminate flooring can be called as a mirror image or a photograph of hardwood enclosed in layers of hardened paper. They are equally versatile as hardwood as they are also available in a variety of looks. They are much cheaper as compared to hardwood and installation is also much easier. Currently they seem to be winning the hardwood versus laminate war, heads over heels.

The Features
The top most layer is the most durable one and is called overlay. They are scratch, moisture, cuts and gauge resistant. The second layer is the one that decides the look of the hardwood. The third one is the core layer that imparts the durability to hardwood. All these layers together make hardwood a high performing flooring option. High pressure laminate hardwood floors are available for commercial establishments as well.

Installation
You might be wondering how to install laminate hardwood flooring. However, installing laminates is different as they do not attach to the sub floor. They have interlocking slats that lock and then float over the sub floor. There is of course a special adhesive that is used to keep them in place. This is a job for a professional, however, if you have the time and the tools then you can go ahead and finish a small room in about a day’s time. Larger rooms will take a lot more time and dedication. Professional help to install hardwood laminate flooring is available at cheap rates nowadays.

Cleaning
Make sure that you get detailed instructions from the manufacturer on how to clean the laminate hardwood flooring. Cleaning and maintenance are the only things that can increase the life of the flooring.