Key Takeaways
- Solid hardwood offers the most authentic look and can be refinished multiple times, but it costs more and is vulnerable to moisture.
- Engineered hardwood strikes a balance: real wood veneer, improved moisture resistance, and wider installation options.
- Laminate is the most budget-friendly, scratch-resistant, and low-maintenance option, but it can’t be refinished and performs poorly in wet areas unless specifically rated.
- Match your choice to room conditions and lifestyle: choose hardwood for living and dining rooms, engineered for basements or variable climates, and laminate for high-traffic, budget-conscious spaces.
- Call a pro when subfloor issues, moisture, radiant heat, or high-end installations are involved, or when you plan refinishing.
Solid Hardwood
Best For: Homeowners wanting a premium, long-lasting wood floor for main living areas, and those who value refinishing options and resale value.
Price Range: Material $4–$12+ per sq ft; installed $8–$20+ per sq ft depending on species and finish
Pros
- Authentic, natural wood grain and texture with depth and warmth.
- Long lifespan when maintained; can be sanded and refinished multiple times.
- Strong resale value and appeal to buyers who prefer real wood.
- Available in many species, widths, and finish options.
Cons
- High material and installation cost compared with laminate.
- Sensitive to moisture and humidity changes—can warp, cup, or gap.
- Requires periodic refinishing and careful maintenance.
- Not usually recommended for basements or bathrooms without special measures.
Engineered Hardwood
Best For: Homeowners who want authentic wood appearance with improved moisture tolerance and broader installation flexibility—good for basements, upstairs rooms, and open-plan homes.
Price Range: Material $3–$10 per sq ft; installed $6–$15+ per sq ft depending on veneer thickness and installation method
Pros
- Real wood veneer over multiple plywood layers; looks like solid hardwood.
- Better dimensional stability and moisture resistance than solid hardwood.
- Can often be installed over concrete and on lower levels; compatible with some radiant heat systems.
- Available in prefinished planks; installation options include floating, glue-down, and nail-down.
Cons
- Veneer thickness limits the number of times it can be refinished (if at all).
- Higher-end engineered can approach solid hardwood prices.
- Quality varies—thin veneers and low-quality cores reduce lifespan.
- Less “authentic” underfoot feel compared with thick solid boards.
Laminate Flooring
Best For: Budget-conscious homeowners, renters, or households with kids and pets who need durable, easy-to-clean floors in living rooms, bedrooms, and kitchens (with water-resistant options in wet areas).
Price Range: Material $1–$4 per sq ft; installed $2–$8+ per sq ft depending on quality and underlayment
Pros
- Most budget-friendly option for wood-like visuals and wide variety of styles.
- Durable and highly scratch- and stain-resistant; good for pets and busy households.
- Easy floating installation—good for DIY projects and overlays.
- Low maintenance and doesn’t require refinishing.
Cons
- Not real wood—appearance and texture can look less authentic, though high-end laminates are convincing.
- Cannot be refinished; damaged planks must be replaced.
- Standard laminate performs poorly in constant moisture; swelling and delamination can occur.
- Lower resale value compared with real wood floors.
Our Recommendation
Engineered Hardwood
Engineered hardwood combines the visual authenticity of real wood with improved moisture tolerance and installation flexibility, making it the most balanced choice for many homeowners. It suits a wide range of rooms and climates while offering better long-term performance than laminate for most households.
When to Call a Professional
Hire a professional if you encounter high moisture levels, uneven or damaged subfloors, radiant heating systems, or complex transitions and staircases. Call a pro for solid hardwood refinishing—sanding and finishing require specialized equipment and dust control. Also consult a flooring contractor when warranties depend on professional installation or when you’re unsure about acclimation, moisture testing, or necessary subfloor prep. Safety note: cutting wood, engineered planks, and laminate generates dust—professionals use masks and containment to reduce health risks.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is laminate cheaper than hardwood?
Yes, laminate is generally the more budget-friendly option up front. Material costs for laminate start as low as $1 per square foot, with installed prices often under $8 per square foot. Solid hardwood and higher-quality engineered hardwood have higher material and installation costs. However, consider lifecycle costs: hardwood can be refinished and may last longer, while laminate usually needs replacement when worn.
Can laminate be refinished like hardwood?
No. Laminate has a photographic wear layer over a fiberboard core, so it cannot be sanded or refinished. If surface damage is severe, you must replace the affected planks. High-quality laminate can last many years if properly cared for, but it lacks the renewability of solid hardwood.
Which flooring adds more value to my home?
Real wood—solid or high-quality engineered—typically adds more resale value and buyer appeal than laminate. Buyers often prefer genuine wood for main living areas. However, if laminate is well-installed and matches the home’s style, it still improves appearance. Market expectations and local preferences influence value, so consider neighborhood standards.
Is laminate waterproof and can I use it in bathrooms?
Standard laminate is water-resistant to light spills but not waterproof; extended exposure to water can cause swelling and delamination. Water-resistant and waterproof laminate products are available and can be used in kitchens and bathrooms, but always check the manufacturer’s rating and installation recommendations. For consistently wet areas, consider waterproof vinyl or properly sealed engineered hardwood.