Laminate vs. Hardwood Flooring
Ready to upgrade your floors? Compare laminate and hardwood to discover which suits your home best.
Thinking about updating your floors but unsure whether to go with laminate or hardwood? If you love the look of wood floors, both options can give you that desired aesthetic—but they come with different price points, durability levels, and pros and cons. In this guide, we’ll compare hardwood and laminate flooring to help you decide which is the best choice for your home.
Laminate vs. Hardwood Flooring: Similarities
You might be surprised at how much laminate and hardwood floors have in common:
- Appearance: Both options look like real wood and have similar wood grain patterns and colors. Laminate has improved dramatically over time and now closely mimics the appearance of natural wood floors.
- Home value: Hardwood and laminate floors increase the resale value more effectively than carpet or tile. Hardwood generally offers a higher return on investment, though.
- Installation: You can install both laminate and engineered hardwood as floating floors over foam underlayment or glue and nail them down to subflooring. Both are typically available for DIY projects as lock-and-fold boards or tongue-and-groove boards. However, solid hardwood is best installed by a professional.
- Plank sizes: Long planks that are up to 8 inches wide are available for both flooring types.
Laminate vs. Hardwood Flooring: Differences
Laminate is ideal for homeowners who want more waterproofing, while hardwood offers more durability, more soundproofing, and a warmer feel. Here are more key differences:
- Composition: Laminate is made of synthetic materials fused onto a composite wood core. Hardwood is milled from solid wood, while engineered wood flooring is made from a combination of natural wood and plywood.
- Durability: Hardwood is more durable, has a longer lifespan, and can withstand decades of wear. Laminate is more prone to chipping, fading, and wear over time.
- Eco-friendliness: Real hardwood floors are more eco-friendly, as they come from a renewable resource as long as you choose responsibly sourced or reclaimed wood. Laminate contains resins and petroleum-derived materials, which have a higher environmental impact than solid wood flooring.
- Feel and sound: Hardwood feels warmer underfoot and absorbs sound, while laminate feels more plastic-like and can sound hollow when walked on.
- Maintenance: Scratches and dents can be sanded and refinished out of hardwood. Laminate cannot be refinished, so its boards require total replacement when damaged.
- Waterproofing: Laminate flooring is water-resistant thanks to its durable protective wear layer. Solid hardwood can suffer water damage if moisture penetrates the finish.
Laminate vs. Hardwood Flooring Cost Considerations
Cost is often a significant factor when choosing between laminate and hardwood flooring. These factors will influence your total installation costs for either laminate or hardwood flooring:
- Labor: Professional flooring installation fees range from $2–$12 per square foot, depending on the job’s complexity. If your flooring is oddly shaped or on stairs, labor fees will increase.
- Style: Both options use various flooring materials and wood types, ranging from cost-effective and functional to luxurious and expensive.
- Thickness: Laminate and hardwood flooring are typically available in thicknesses ranging from 6–12 millimeters. Thicker materials cost more.
- Square footage: The more space you have to cover, the more money you’ll spend.
Laminate Floor Costs
The national average cost of laminate flooring is $1–$4.50* for the laminate itself and another $2–$8 for professional installation. That means the total cost of laying down laminate flooring in a 2,000-square-foot space is between $6,000 and $25,000. Below is a breakdown of different laminate flooring styles and their national average cost per square foot.
- Acacia: $1–$2.20 per square foot
- Beech: $1–$2.90 per square foot
- Cherry: $1.70–$2.80 per square foot
- Elm: $1.40–$3.70 per square foot
- Hickory: $1.50–$4.50 per square foot
- Maple: $1.50–$3.80 per square foot
- Oak: $1–$3.70 per square foot
- Stone: $3.50–$4 per square foot
- Tile: $3.50–$5 per square foot
- Walnut: $0.90–$2.80 per square foot
*Cost information is based on 2024 data from Fixr and HomeAdvisor.
Hardwood Flooring Cost
The average cost of hardwood floors is $3–$12.50 per square foot for materials and $6–$12 per square foot for labor, for a total of $9–$24.50 per square foot. These prices mean hardwood flooring installation for a 2,000-square-foot house will cost between $18,000 and $49,000. Here are the different wood types you can purchase with the national average cost per square foot:
- Bamboo: $4.50–$6.50 per square foot
- Brazilian walnut: $8.25–$10.50 per square foot
- Cherry: $4.30–$7.25 per square foot
- Cypress: $3.85–$5.75 per square foot
- Hickory: $4.15–$7.15 per square foot
- Mahogany: $6.45–$7.50 per square foot
- Maple: $6.15–$10 per square foot
- Pine: $1.25–$2.10 per square foot
- Red oak: $3–$5.75 per square foot
- Teak: $8.75–$12.50 per square foot
- White ash: $5.75–$8.25 per square foot
- White oak: $3.75–$7 per square foot
Laminate vs. Hardwood Flooring: Pros and Cons
Understanding the advantages and disadvantages of laminate flooring can help you decide if it’s the right fit for your home.
Advantages of Laminate Flooring
Laminate flooring comes with several benefits that make it a popular choice for many homeowners:
- Affordability: Generally costs less upfront than hardwood.
- Durability: Resists scratches, dents, and fading.
- Easy maintenance: Simple to clean and doesn’t require waxing or polishing.
- Moisture resistance: Better suited for areas with higher humidity or occasional spills.
- DIY-friendly installation: Many laminate products feature click-lock systems for easy assembly.
Disadvantages of Laminate Flooring
It’s important to be aware of the potential downsides as well:
- Can‘t be refinished: Damaged planks need to be replaced entirely.
- Shorter lifespan: Typically lasts 15–25 years before needing replacement.
- Less impact on home value: May not boost your property value as much as hardwood.
- Potential hollow sound: Can feel less authentic and sound hollow when walked on.
- Environmental concerns: Contains synthetic materials and isn’t biodegradable.
Benefits of Hardwood Flooring
Hardwood flooring also has its own set of advantages:
- Natural beauty: Offers unique grain patterns and a rich, warm appearance.
- Long lifespan: Can last 50–100 years or more with proper care.
- Ability to refinish: Can be sanded and refinished multiple times.
- Increased home value: Often adds significant value to your property.
- Eco-friendly option: Natural, renewable resource when sourced responsibly.
Drawbacks of Hardwood Flooring
But there are some disadvantages to keep in mind before making your decision:
- Higher initial cost: It’s more expensive to purchase and install than laminate.
- Can scratch or dent: Can be damaged by heavy furniture or pet claws.
- Moisture sensitivity: Prone to warping or cupping in humid environments.
- Regular maintenance: Needs periodic refinishing and more careful cleaning.
- Installation complexity: Professional installation yields the best results.
Do-It-Yourself vs. Professional Flooring Installation
A do-it-yourself approach might be financially beneficial for laminate or engineered wood flooring, but professional installation is the superior choice for solid hardwood flooring.
Do-It-Yourself Flooring Installation
First, choose the laminate or engineered wood with the appearance that you want. You’ll need to purchase click-and-lock or tongue-and-groove flooring planks, a saw, and other necessary tools to make installation a do-it-yourself project. Make sure you understand each step of the do-it-yourself installation process before starting. Most homeowners can install a room’s worth of laminate flooring in a weekend.
In the video below, Ask This Old House carpenter Nathan Gilbert demonstrates the process as he helps a homeowner replace a dated vinyl kitchen floor with a more modern product.
Professional Flooring Installation
Consider calling a pro if you choose laminate that needs to be glued or nailed down or if your subfloor needs leveling or repair. We recommend hiring a professional to install hardwood flooring. Professionals have the experience to handle complexities like subfloor preparation and account for temperature and humidity changes. While it costs more upfront, professional installation can save you time and potential headaches.
Laminate vs. Hardwood Flooring: Maintenance and Care
Proper maintenance is necessary to preserve beauty and extend the life of laminate and hardwood flooring.
How To Clean Laminate Flooring
Laminate flooring is relatively low-maintenance. Regular sweeping or vacuuming with a soft brush attachment helps remove dirt and debris. Use a damp mop with a solution specifically designed for deeper cleaning on laminate floors. Avoid excessive water, as it can seep into seams and cause swelling. Wipe up spills promptly to prevent staining or water damage.
How To Maintain Hardwood Flooring
Hardwood floors require more careful maintenance. Sweep or vacuum regularly with a soft brush attachment to prevent scratching. For deeper cleaning, use a slightly damp mop with a cleaner formulated for hardwood floors. Avoid standing water and clean spills immediately. Periodically, you may need to refinish hardwood floors to restore their appearance and protect the wood. This typically involves sanding down the surface and applying new stain and sealant.
Laminate vs. Hardwood Flooring: Environmental Impact and Sustainability
The environmental impact of flooring choices is an increasingly important consideration for many homeowners.
Eco-Friendliness of Laminate Flooring
Laminate flooring has a mixed environmental profile. On the positive side, it often contains recycled wood fibers in its core layer and can be more energy-efficient to produce than solid hardwood. However, laminate isn’t biodegradable and contains synthetic materials and adhesives that can harm the environment. Some manufacturers are working to improve the sustainability of laminate flooring by using more eco-friendly materials and production processes.
Sustainability of Hardwood Flooring
Hardwood flooring can be a more sustainable choice when it’s sourced responsibly. Look for products certified by organizations like the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) to make sure the wood comes from sustainably managed forests. Hardwood is biodegradable and can be recycled or repurposed at the end of its life. The long lifespan of hardwood flooring also means less frequent replacement, potentially reducing its overall environmental impact.
Laminate vs. Hardwood Flooring: Resale Value
Choosing between laminate and hardwood flooring can significantly impact your home’s resale value and return on investment (ROI).
Impact of Laminate on Home Value
While laminate flooring can improve a home’s appearance, it generally doesn’t add significant value to a property. Potential buyers often perceive laminate as a lower-quality alternative to hardwood. However, high-quality laminate in good condition can still appeal to buyers looking for a durable, low-maintenance flooring option.
Effect of Hardwood on Property Worth
Hardwood flooring typically offers a higher return on investment and can significantly increase a home’s resale value. Many buyers are willing to pay a premium for homes with hardwood floors due to their durability, timeless appeal, and potential for refinishing. Real estate professionals often cite hardwood flooring as one of the top features that can help sell a home faster and at a higher price.
Choosing the Right Flooring for Different Rooms
The ideal flooring choice can vary depending on the specific needs and conditions of different areas in your home.
Best Flooring Options for High-Moisture Areas
Laminate flooring often has an advantage in rooms prone to moisture, such as bathrooms, kitchens, and basements. Many laminate products are water-resistant or even waterproof, making them better suited to handle occasional spills or high humidity. However, some engineered hardwood options with proper sealing can work well in these areas. For extremely moisture-prone spaces, consider alternatives like tile or vinyl plank flooring.
Ideal Flooring Choices for Living Spaces
Both laminate and hardwood can be excellent choices in living rooms, bedrooms, and other main living areas. Hardwood often takes the lead for its natural beauty, warmth, and ability to add value to your home. It’s particularly well-suited for formal living rooms and master bedrooms. Laminate can be an excellent option for family rooms, children’s bedrooms, or areas with high foot traffic, offering durability and easy maintenance at a lower cost.
Our Conclusion
Choosing between laminate and hardwood flooring ultimately comes down to your needs, budget, and personal taste. If you’re looking for an affordable, water-resistant option that’s easy to install and maintain, laminate might be the way to go. It’s practical for busy households or areas prone to spills. If you prefer natural beauty, longevity, and a boost in home value, hardwood flooring is worth the investment. It adds warmth and elegance to your space and can last for generations with proper care.
We recommend professional installation for either option. New flooring is a significant investment, and professional installation can save you time and potential issues down the road. Our tool below connects you with reputable local flooring experts who can offer free quotes. We suggest getting estimates from at least three companies before making your choice.
FAQ About Laminate vs. Hardwood Flooring
Why choose laminate over hardwood?
Homeowners choose laminate flooring over hardwood flooring for its affordability and moisture resistance. We recommend laminate over hardwood for kitchens, basements, and bathrooms.
Does hardwood scratch easier than laminate?
Hardwood floors scratch more easily than laminate floors, but it is also easier to repair a scratch on hardwood. If a laminate floor is scratched, you must replace the entire board, but hardwood can be refinished.
Is laminate flooring louder than hardwood?
Yes, laminate flooring is louder than hardwood because hardwood flooring is naturally more sound-absorbent. You can add acoustic underlayment to laminate flooring to make it quieter.
When should you not install hardwood floors?
Avoid hardwood flooring installation during the hotter and more humid months of the year. New hardwood flooring absorbs moisture from the air, which causes it to expand, swell, and warp.
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