Hardwoods or Laminates?

Question

I am trying to get new flooring for my home. I don't know much about flooring. I do know that I do not want carpet. So in your opinion/experience which is the best way to go? Wood, fake wood, pergo,..

I cant spend a ton of money either.

Thanks

Answer 1

Hardwood is going to be more expensive than a laminate. There are a lot of pros and cons to look at, but I'll tell you the ones that matter to me.

Hardwood is nice, increases the value of your home and is easy to repair/refinish. It is not extremely difficult to care for.

Laminate wood (like Pergo) is easier to clean and care for than real hardwood. I like that Pergo flooring is so much softer than hardwood (and immensely softer than tile) to stand on in the kitchen (I love to cook with lots of fresh stuff...which means lots of prep)

I chose Pergo because of the ease of cleaning, softer to stand on and lower price.

Be sure to get a good laminate so that it stands up well to daily activity (doesn't get scratched and nicked up over simple things.)

Answer 2

Pergo or laminate will be a little cheaper, but they do make real wood thats in panels like Pergo and installs the same way

The labor to install is cheaper since they "float" no glue or nails or staining needed

Hard wood is great, but involves optional staining and you have to seal it, and every 5-10 years strip and refinish