The two products most often confused when choosing a floor covering are engineered wood and laminate flooring. Although their names are almost identical in Turkish, their production, maintenance and cost are quite different. Which one you should choose depends on your budget, how heavily the floor is used and how much you value a natural material.
What is laminate flooring?
Laminate flooring is the most common floor covering, seen in many of our homes. It is made by pressing a wood-look pattern layer and a resin-impregnated, wear-resistant protective surface onto a core of high-density fibreboard (HDF). So although it looks like wood, there is no real wood on the surface.
- It is resistant to scratches, impacts and stains.
- It requires no special care; it is cleaned with a damp cloth.
- It is more affordable and quick to install.
- The abrasion class (AC) and thickness determine quality; a higher class should be chosen for heavily used areas.
What is engineered wood flooring?
Engineered wood flooring is a natural product made by bonding (laminating) different layers of wood together. The top layer is real wood; that’s why its texture, warmth and the variation in each piece carry the character of real wood.
- It is a natural material; its look and feel underfoot are warmer.
- It needs maintenance with varnish or oil at regular intervals.
- It should be used more carefully with regard to water and scratches.
- It costs more than laminate.
Which one should I choose?
In short: if budget and low maintenance are your priorities, laminate flooring; if naturalness, health and the real texture of wood are your priorities, engineered wood is the better choice. In homes with children or pets, laminate with a high abrasion class is a practical solution, while in calmer areas such as a bedroom or study, engineered wood can be enjoyed for many years. If you are considering underfloor heating, always check that the product you choose is suitable for this system.
Frequently asked questions
Does laminate flooring let water through?
The surface of standard laminate is water-resistant, but water entering through the joints can make the core swell. Spilled water should be wiped up immediately; moisture-resistant ranges are also available.
Can engineered wood flooring be refinished?
If the top wood layer is thick enough, it can be sanded and refinished. This is one of the biggest long-term advantages of engineered wood flooring.
For support with flooring and material choices, take a look at our decoration & renovation service.
