Should you go with hardwood or laminate in your new custom home?
While your budget can probably answer this question best, let us reassure you that laminate flooring has come a long way. High quality laminate flooring can mimic the beauty and natural variance of hardwood, and may surprise even the most ardent hardwood fan. Not only is it great for the budget, laminate flooring is durable and easy to maintain.
Here’s your guide to laminate flooring, which is included in your custom home. By the way, if you’re interested in upgrading to hardwood flooring, check out this guide: Custom Home Design 101 Guide: Hardwood Floors.
What is Laminate Flooring?
Laminate flooring is a type of synthetic floor covering. It is composed of various layers, including a pressed wood layer, an applique photo layer, and a durable “wear” layer that protects the flooring from damage.
Why Go With Laminate Flooring?
Is laminate flooring right for you? Consider some of these benefits of laminate flooring for your home and your budget.
It’s affordable. When compared with traditional hardwood floors or carpet, laminate flooring is often the most cost effective option. Use this budget-friendly choice in primary living areas or choose it for the mud room or secondary baths. By using laminate in areas that are not used as often you can leave more room in your budget to upgrade in other areas. (That’s smart design.)
It’s durable. Laminate flooring resists dents, scratches, and stains. High quality laminate flooring often comes with a manufacturer’s warranty that guarantees quality and durability for 10 years or more.
The variety of choices. Choose from any color or wood grain variant that your heart desires. And with the market’s rich variety of laminate flooring options, you can even find textured floors that feel like a luxurious hard-scraped hardwood. By the way, laminate flooring doesn’t just mimic the look of hardwood. It can convincingly simulate the look of stone and brick, too.
Easy to clean. With a laminate floor, there’s no need to wax and buff. Simply vacuum or sweep away your troubles. Use a laminate floor cleaner to mop away spills and keep your floor looking as good as new for many years to come.
Perfect for pet owners. Laminate flooring is optimal for pet owners who love the look of hardwood but need a floor that’s scratch-resistant and easy to clean.
It looks great. Last, but certainly not least, is the visual appeal of laminate flooring. Even if you were to inspect it close up, high quality laminate flooring will look like the real thing. Some laminate manufacturers even use 3D images to create a more realistic appearance.
Would you like to see how beautiful and convincingly realistic laminate flooring can be? Stop by one of our conveniently located Design Centers to see our wide selection of high quality laminate floor. We’d love to show you how laminate flooring can look and feel in your new custom home. Visit a Design Center today.
