Engineered Hardwood vs. Laminate

For homeowners in West Des Moines, IA, choosing between engineered hardwood and laminate flooring can be tricky. These two options often look alike, but they perform very differently depending on your space, needs, and budget.

 

Let’s dive into what makes them unique (so you know which one is best for you).

 

What Is Engineered Hardwood?

 

Engineered hardwood is made with a real wood veneer on top and multiple layers of wood composite beneath. It provides the beauty of hardwood but with added stability.

 

It can be installed as a floating floor, glued down, or nailed — making it more versatile than traditional hardwood. 

 

Learn more in our full guide: Engineered Hardwood Flooring Overview. You can also browse our hardwood collection to explore styles.

 

What Is Laminate Flooring?

 

Laminate is a multi-layer synthetic flooring product. The top layer is a high-resolution image of wood, sealed with a clear, scratch-resistant wear layer. Underneath, there’s a core board for stability and a backing layer for moisture protection. It’s known for being budget-friendly, durable, and easy to install.

 

Head-to-Head: Engineered Hardwood vs. Laminate

 

Appearance & Texture

 

Engineered hardwood has a real wood surface, which means it shows authentic grain patterns and textures. Laminate flooring has come a long way, with realistic wood-look finishes, but some patterns repeat and can feel artificial up close.

Durability & Longevity

 

Laminate is more scratch-resistant than engineered hardwood, making it ideal for high-traffic homes with pets or children. Engineered hardwood can last decades and be refinished once or twice, but it is more sensitive to dents and scratches.

 

Water & Humidity Resistance

 

Engineered hardwood is more stable than solid wood and can handle Iowa's seasonal humidity better. Laminate, however, is often more water-resistant—some products are even waterproof. This makes laminate a top pick for bathrooms and basements.

 

Installation & Maintenance

 

Laminate floors typically click together for easy DIY installation. Engineered hardwood gives you more options—nail, glue, or float—and looks more high-end. Both require minimal maintenance: sweeping and the occasional damp mop. Engineered hardwood can be refinished; laminate cannot.

 

Cost Comparison

 

Laminate flooring is generally less expensive than engineered hardwood, both in product and installation costs. However, engineered hardwood adds more resale value and has the timeless look of real wood. 

 

Which Is Right for You?

 

Still not sure which to choose? Here are a few tips:

 

• Have pets or kids and need something tough? Go with laminate.

• Want a classic look and feel of real wood? Engineered hardwood is your best bet.

• Finishing a basement or installing over concrete? Laminate is more forgiving.

• Looking to invest long-term? Engineered offers more value.

 

For more guidance, check out Which is better, hardwood floors or engineered hardwood?

 

Design Trends to Know

 

Engineered hardwood is trending in wider planks, matte finishes, and rustic textures. Laminate follows closely with embossed-in-register patterns and waterproof features.

 

For a bigger breakdown of flooring comparisons, read Engineered Hardwood vs. Laminate & Vinyl.

 

Final Thoughts

 

Laminate and engineered hardwood both bring unique strengths. One offers durability and budget-friendliness. The other delivers real-wood charm and long-term value. Choose what fits your home, your lifestyle, and your goals.

 

Ready to Find the Right Fit?

 

Explore our full hardwood flooring collection, or stop by the showroom to get expert help. We’ll guide you through samples, design ideas, and installation options that fit your home perfectly.