Hardwood vs. Laminate Flooring Guide | Plymouth Hardwood Flooring, Plymouth, MN

Hardwood vs. Laminate Flooring: Choosing the Best for Your Home

Plymouth Hardwood Flooring helps homeowners understand the key differences between hardwood and laminate flooring. Both options offer beauty and durability, but each excels in different situations for Minnesota homes.

Understanding Hardwood Flooring

Solid hardwood features genuine wood throughout the entire plank. It can be refinished multiple times, potentially lasting over 100 years. Hardwood increases home value significantly and offers authentic wood grain beauty that improves with age.

Hardwood works best in:

Living rooms and dining rooms
Bedrooms and hallways
Above-grade installations
Homes with stable humidity levels

Laminate Flooring Benefits

Laminate consists of a photographic wood image over fiberboard core. Modern laminates replicate hardwood convincingly at lower costs. They resist scratches, dents, and fading better than real wood.

Laminate excels in:

High-traffic family areas
Homes with pets and children
Budget-conscious projects
Areas with moisture concerns

Cost Comparison

Hardwood typically costs $8 to $15 per square foot installed. Laminate ranges from $3 to $8 per square foot installed. Your Plymouth project budget may determine the best choice.

Durability and Maintenance

Hardwood scratches more easily but can be refinished. Laminate resists daily wear better but cannot be refinished. Both clean easily with appropriate products.

Minnesota Climate Factors

Plymouth’s humidity fluctuations affect hardwood more than laminate. Hardwood expands and contracts seasonally, requiring proper installation techniques. Laminate maintains dimensional stability better in varying conditions.

Resale Value Considerations

Hardwood flooring increases home value more than laminate. Twin Cities buyers actively seek homes with quality hardwood floors. Laminate provides good aesthetics without the same value boost.

Installation Complexity

Hardwood requires professional installation for best results. Many laminate products feature click-lock systems allowing easier installation. Both benefit from expert installation ensuring long-term performance.

Making Your Decision

Consider your budget, lifestyle, and long-term plans. Plymouth Hardwood Flooring provides samples and expert guidance to help you choose wisely.

Need help deciding? Book A Free Consultation with our flooring experts today.

Supporting Minnesota Communities Through Local Sponsorship

Plymouth Hardwood Flooring is a proud sponsor of community events throughout the state of Minnesota. As your local hardwood flooring specialists, we believe in giving back to the Twin Cities communities we serve, including Plymouth, Minnetonka, Wayzata, and surrounding areas.

Our Minnesota Community Commitment

From Plymouth summer festivals to Twin Cities charity fundraisers, we actively support events that bring Minnesota families together. Our sponsorships help fund local school programs, community celebrations, and neighborhood improvement initiatives that make our region stronger.

Discover Local Events

Looking for family-friendly activities in Minnesota? Visit Minnesota Free Events for comprehensive listings of sponsored community gatherings, festivals, and activities throughout the state.

When you choose Plymouth Hardwood Flooring for your home improvement needs, you’re supporting a local business that reinvests in Minnesota communities. Contact us today or call: (866) 595-7932 to learn how our expert hardwood installation and refinishing services can enhance your Plymouth area home while supporting local causes.