Hardwood flooring is always a popular option for homeowners in the area. For many reasons, however, solid hardwood is not always practical. It is possible to get the look and benefits of hardwood flooring without the expense and maintenance concerns of the real thing. Read on to learn more about our top picks for hardwood flooring lookalikes from Floor Coverings International Southlake.
Laminate
Laminate flooring has been a go-to hardwood alternative for many years. This flooring is very durable. It will not fade, even in direct sunlight, and it resists scratches and dents better than solid hardwood planks. It is more affordable than solid or engineered wood, and it still delivers on resale value.
Laminate is considered water resistant, but it is made almost entirely of wood and therefore is not recommended for bathrooms, basements, or any other room with high moisture and humidity.
Vinyl Plank
Vinyl plank flooring is similar to laminate in many ways. The price point is comparable and the look is similar. Both vinyl and laminate are available in many colors and textures to mimic the look of solid wood flooring. Vinyl flooring has a slight edge over laminate on water resistance, however. Since vinyl is a plastic product it is practically waterproof, and it is the preferred choice for those areas of the home that collect moisture.
Bamboo
Bamboo is an all-natural and eco-friendly product, which appeals to homeowners that want to use green building materials. While technically a fast growing grass, bamboo flooring is very similar to hardwood in looks and durability. It is water resistant and naturally allergy-free. When selecting bamboo flooring, be sure to select emission-free flooring that was responsibly sourced.
Wood-Look Tile
Wood-look tile has become very trendy in recent years, and it’s easy to see why. You get the price, maintenance and versatility benefits of tile with a look that is almost indistinguishable from wood flooring. You can even install wood-look tile outside for a seamless hardwood look from indoors to out. Wood-look tile is a trend that has some staying power, but it may not appeal to all homeowners. If you are selling your home in the near future, you may want to select flooring with more reliable resale value.
The team at Floor Coverings International Southlake loves to discuss the benefits of hardwood flooring and popular hardwood alternatives. Contact us today for a free in-home consultation to find the perfect flooring solution for your home or office.
Photos by ©yampi and ©Dariusz Jarzabek