People who like the look of floorboards but can’t afford to replace them can now choose the laminate floor installation option. As technology advances, it becomes harder to distinguish between real and fake timber floor installation. Now, it’s not as black-and-white to decide between using natural wood or trying out laminate. However, how comparable are they? It would be best if you thought about these factors when selecting a flooring installation in Sydney, as they will affect the flooring quality and the current fashion.

What is laminate flooring?

The layers of laminate flooring are numerous. High-density fiberboard has melamine resin as its primary adhesive. Transparent melamine with a protective finish is layered on top of a large photo of genuine wood to prevent damage.

Most product managers and makers of laminate and wood flooring argue that despite the industry’s tremendous progress, the name “laminate” is typically met with disdain.

Since its inception in 1977, it has seen significant development, evolving from short, unattractive, plastic-looking planks that are difficult to lay to long gorgeous panels that you cannot tell apart from solid wood and surpassing timber in every way.

Laminate flooring is a more affordable alternative to solid hardwood flooring that successfully mimics the appearance of natural hardwood without the high price tag. Solid hardwood flooring, milled into 19mm-thick planks, is an undeniably high-quality material. However, this is not reason enough to write off laminate flooring altogether. Laminate flooring and solid hardwood floors have advantages and disadvantages, but they are best used in specific situations.

Pros of laminate flooring.

• Different widths and wood-like designs are available.
• It’s a cheap and straightforward flooring solution. Laminate flooring is a more affordable option than the installed expenses of $120 to $140 per square meter for wood or engineered wood.
• It’s a lot less complicated to install yourself than hardwood.
• Stain, scratch, and chemical resistance are just some of the features that make this an excellent choice for your home. In addition, the industry norm for quality laminates is a 25-year warranty.
• It is produced using eco-friendly materials, including recycled wood and low-VOC finishes.
• Invulnerable to thermal expansion and contraction. The thick fiberboard is long-lasting, sturdy, and waterproof.

Cons of laminate flooring.

• Not sandable, and it will wear out eventually and require replacement.
• The resale value is lower than that of natural or artificial wood. Therefore, market demand is highest for organic products.
• Some can be slippery, most not slippery if not equipped with slip-resistant layers.
• It can be cold and unattractive in comparison to wood. At first glance, it could pass for wood, but a closer examination would expose the reality. First, consider purchasing laminates from a renowned brand that successfully imitates wood in appearance by employing long strips and complementing timber surface textures.
• There are some echoing spots that you may hear through the acoustic underlay.

Pros of timber flooring.

• Nothing can’t top the durability and natural beauty of real wood.
• You can give any timber floor a new look by sanding it down and then applying a wash, wax, stain, or painting.
• A hardwood floor can be purchased and installed for less money if you opt for engineered wood or pre-finished planks.
• It is simple to disinfect.
• Good resale potential.
• Wood that has been recycled or comes from well-managed, certified forests is one option for going green.

Cons of timber flooring.

• This item is not waterproof. Constrains when dry but expands when wet. Cracking and warping might develop with time.
• Some engineering flooring can only be lightly sanded, most of solid can be sanded multiple time
• Damage easily, such as scrapes and dents.
• Costlier to acquire and set up that durable for a long time.
• To reduce post-installation shrinkage and movement, competent contractors insist on letting the lumber acclimate on-site for a few weeks before installation. Even though pre-finished flooring is standard, it is generally preferable to finish the boards once installed.

Conclusion.

Both timber and laminate flooring are excellent; however, they may use or not based on your liking and situation. However, both require professional service when installing and restoring. Thus, we suggest you seek professional assistance from Juflooring as they are one of the best timber and laminate floor installer Sydney.