What Are The Advantages & Downsides Of An Artificial Wood Floor

Written by Aara Jones
12 · 20 · 22

With the vast array of flooring material options on the market for artificial wood floor, selecting the ideal one to meet your particular needs and budget can be daunting. Many people strive for the look of a traditional tiled floor or authentic hardwood but use artificial materials.

As a rule, floor brands offer laminate options that meet virtually any budget and satisfy the look and style of any scheme without the maintenance associated with the genuine product.

The artificial wood floor is increasingly becoming a favored choice for homeowners as improvements have created outstanding durability, more visual appeal, and easy install. Will laminates be the most suitable option for your flooring needs? Consider the pros and cons to help you make the most educated decision.

What Are The Advantages & Downsides Of An Artificial Wood Floor

Authentic hardwoods and traditional tiling create a beautiful ambiance in any home. The material is exceptionally expensive and requires much maintenance to ensure the products’ quality retention and overall longevity.

Most people want the look these options provide but without the work and at a lower price point. Fortunately, laminate answers that conundrum with the look, minimal maintenance, and affordability.

The composite, synthetic flooring has a core of either fiberboard or plywood, with some offering an underlayment for added insulation. These pieces are glued together with the “image” or top layer comprising a high-resolution depiction of the authentic material, whether wood or another option.

This and the layers beneath it are protected by a “wear” clear plastic top covering, creating a durable, quality floor with a realistic impression. What are the advantages of these floors, and what might be some downsides? Let’s learn.

●      Pros

1.     The durability of an artificial wood floor

Innovations with laminates allow UV protection and waterproofing possibilities. Heavy traffic doesn’t pose a problem, regardless if that includes children and pets. Maintenance is low compared to authentic materials, but engaging in adequate care and upkeep is still necessary to retain quality and extend longevity.

The bottom underlayment adds a layer of cushioning for comfortability, while the top wear layer helps to protect the other ones from potential damage.

2.     Budget-friendly

Authentic hardwood floors are costly, with the price ranging depending on the species, installation costs, finishing, and on. With laminate floors, there are a vast array of choices in style and design, with installation being relatively easy. Click for install tips.

Many homeowners choose to DIY the process, but it’s suggested to consider professional installation for accuracy the first time and to avoid the potential for wasted materials.

3.     Eco-friendly

Instead of using real wood and needing to take from a natural resource to create a product, the core of the laminates more often consists of recycled materials. The indication is that trusted brands will provide forms of “environmental certification” with their products.

●      Cons

1.     Water or liquid

Laminates don’t do well with moisture. Any excessive exposure to a liquid solution will create warping or buckling, stain the material, or cause the planks to break down if not addressed right away.

More brands are offering waterproof products, but the suggestion is to be still cautious, particularly if the moisture were to flow beneath the planks. The affected area would need to be taken out and replaced. Learn how to clean these floors at HGTV.com.

What Are The Advantages & Downsides Of An Artificial Wood Floor 2

Photo by Gustavo Zambelli on Unsplash

2.     Refinishing

With authentic hardwoods, when there are scratches, dents, damages, or overall wear and tear with age, you can sand the material down and refinish them to essentially have the appearance of a new floor. That’s not possible with laminate flooring.

These can’t be refinished due to the plastic wear layer and the way the flooring is constructed with the composite core. Once there is damage, or it becomes worn with age, it would need to be entirely replaced for new materials.

Because of the durability and following manufacturer instructions, wear can take considerable time. You might want to try a completely different design or style by that point.

Final Thought

Given the laminates’ affordability and versatility, many people choose to use varied looks for the different spaces throughout their houses. While wood is classic for most living areas, kitchens and bathrooms are often fitted with ceramic tiles.

It’s possible to achieve the aesthetic you want without the added burden of heavy maintenance and expense.

Still, the priority is to weigh the pros and cons to ensure an educated decision can be made. Despite less care with a laminate, you have to establish a regular routine for upkeep to retain the quality and extend the lifespan. The manufacturer will include instructions for optimum maintenance and longevity.

While install can be done in a DIY capacity, it’s beneficial to consider using a professional representative from the company you purchase the materials to prevent wasting materials and ensure it’s accurate the first time out.

Read our recent blog: Lean Six Sigma Certification – All You Need to Know.

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Aara Jones