Laminate vs. Engineered Hardwood Flooring: What’s the Difference?

At The Floor Store, we know that choosing the right flooring for your home can be a daunting task, especially when deciding between laminate and engineered hardwood. Both options mimic the look of real wood, but they differ significantly in composition, durability, and application. Both hold up well in our New Mexico climate and are widely used in area homes. Understanding these differences can help you make the best decision for your lifestyle and budget.

What Is Laminate Flooring?

Laminate flooring is a synthetic product designed to look like wood. It consists of four layers:

1. Wear Layer: A tough, clear layer that protects against scratches and stains.
2. Design Layer: A high-resolution image of wood or other materials.
3. Core Layer: A dense fiberboard providing stability and impact resistance.
4. Back Layer: A moisture-resistant layer that adds additional support.

Laminate is a budget-friendly choice and comes in a wide variety of designs, including styles that mimic exotic wood species.

Benefits of Laminate Flooring

• Affordability: Typically less expensive than engineered hardwood.
• Easy Installation: Often features a click-and-lock design for DIY installation.
• Durability: Resistant to scratches, stains, and moisture.
• Low Maintenance: Requires simple cleaning with a damp mop or vacuum.

However, laminate can feel hollow underfoot due to its composition and lacks the refinishing options of real wood.

What Is Engineered Hardwood?

Engineered hardwood consists of a top layer of real wood veneer bonded to layers of plywood or high-density fiberboard. This construction makes it more stable than solid hardwood while preserving the authentic look and feel of natural wood.

Benefits of Engineered Hardwood Flooring

• Real Wood Aesthetic: Its top layer of genuine wood provides an authentic appearance.
• Versatility: Can be installed in areas prone to humidity, such as basements.
• Durability: The layered construction resists warping and expands less than solid hardwood.
• Refinishing Options: This flooring can be screened and recoated to restore the floor’s shine, a process that can delay the need to sand and refinish the floor. The number of times engineered hardwoods can be screen and recoated, or completely refinished, depends on the veneer thickness.
• Solid Feel: Doesn’t sound hollow, offering a more premium underfoot experience.

While engineered hardwood is more expensive than laminate, its longevity and refinishing capability make it a worthwhile investment for many homeowners.

Key Differences Between Laminate and Engineered Hardwood

Which Flooring Is Right for You?

The decision between laminate and engineered hardwood largely depends on your budget, lifestyle, and design preferences.

• Choose Laminate If:
  • You want a cost-effective, durable floor for high-traffic areas.
  • You’re looking for easy installation and low maintenance.
  • You’re on a tight budget but want the look of wood.
• Choose Engineered Hardwood If:
  • You prefer the authentic beauty of real wood.
  • You’re investing in a long-term flooring solution.
  • You want a versatile floor that works in most areas of the home.

See and Feel Samples in Our Showroom

Both laminate and engineered hardwood have their strengths. Laminate offers an affordable, durable solution, while engineered hardwood provides the timeless elegance of real wood with added stability. By understanding the differences, you can select the flooring that best suits your needs and enhances the beauty of your home.

To really understand the difference in these two flooring options, visit The Floor Store NM on Second Street in central Albuquerque. You can see how your footsteps (or your dog’s steps) sound on laminate, feel the textural differences, and learn about the colors and options. You can also take samples home to check how the color and lighting of your home affects the flooring choice.

For decades, we’ve served Albuquerque area homeowners with personalized recommendations and high-quality flooring options for every room in your home. Give us a call or stop by the store today!