Engineered Wood Flooring vs Laminate Flooring: Which Is Best for Your Home?

Both engineered wood and laminate have been popular choices for Irish homeowners and while they have similarities they are extremely different. To choose the right floor for you, take into consideration the Irish climate, lifestyle and budget. As we all know Ireland is naturally cold and wet so it’s important to choose a floor that provides insulation and warmth, engineered wood provides natural warmth and retains heat better. If you have a busy household with kids or pets, durability must be a factor when choosing a floor as you’ll need one that’s scratch-resistant and easy to clean. Both engineered and laminate are durable, laminate tends to be easier to clean which may be ideal for busy households. If you’re looking for a more cost-effective flooring laminate tends to be a more affordable option but doesn’t last as long as engineered flooring.

If you're debating between buying laminate or engineered don’t worry we will be breaking down the pros and cons of each throughout this blog. Both are great flooring options and the best one simply depends on specific needs. Flooring is a long-term investment so it's important to make an informed decision before making the purchase. Here at Des Kelly Interiors, we have an extensive range of laminate and engineered flooring to suit every preference and interior. You can see our full flooring range here.

What is Laminate Flooring?

Laminate is almost completely synthetic made from multiple layers of different materials fused together. It then has a photographic layer to mimic natural materials like wood or stone. Laminate has a very durable clear protective wear layer that makes it resistant to scratches, stains and moisture. These durable properties make laminate a great choice for busy households with pets and children.

As laminate has a printed design layer it can replicate a wide range of materials. The most popular ones include:

• Wood patterns: Laminate can mimic hardwood like oak, maple and walnut
• Stone Patterns: Replicates the look of marble, slate or granite.
• Tile Patterns: Features geometric or artistic designs that resemble ceramic or porcelain tiles.

It also comes in a wide range of colours and textures meaning you can get a matte, gloss or smooth finish depending on preference.

If you want the appearance of real wood on a budget laminate flooring is a great option. As well as being known for its cost-effectiveness and durability, it’s widely known for its easy installation which is perfect for DIY enthusiasts. We have a wide range of laminates available in-store and online.

What is Engineered Flooring?

Unlike laminate, wood is the primary component of engineered floors. It is composed of three layers: real wood veneer (top layer), core layers typically made of plywood, HDF or MDF (middle) and the backing layer (bottom). Engineered flooring closely resembles solid wood because its top layer is made of real hardwood. This gives the floor the same natural grain patterns, colour and texture that you find in solid wood.

 Another benefit of engineered flooring is its specifically designed to be more stable in humid conditions compared to solid hardwood. This makes it suitable for various rooms, including living areas and bedrooms, delivering long-lasting aesthetic appeal. The lifespan of engineered flooring can vary depending on quality, usage and maintenance but it typically lasts between 20-30 years. It can also be refinished a few times, extending its lifespan further. There are various types of engineered flooring all of which we have at Des Kelly Interiors. You can browse the different types we have online, they include straight plank, herringbone and waterproof.

What to Consider When Choosing Either Flooring Type:

1. Appearance & Aesthetics

Both laminate and engineered flooring come in a range of styles, colours and finishes to suit different interior designs. Engineered wood floors offer real wood veneer giving it an authentic look and feel. Alternatively high- quality laminate is designed with advanced printing and embossing techniques that allow it to mimic wood grains and textures remarkably well. One key difference between the two floors is how well they maintain appearance over time. Engineered wood ages gracefully over time, whereas, laminate maintains a consistent appearance throughout its lifespan, as its printed design does not age or change.  Between the two engineered wood flooring offers a more natural and authentic look adding a touch of luxury to any space.

2. Durability & Longevity

Both laminate and engineered wood are highly durable options for flooring, but engineered wood typically lasts longer with proper care. Its real wood veneer can be refinished multiple times, extending its lifespan and maintaining its appearance. Laminate tends not to last as long because although the wear layer protects against daily wear, it cannot be refinished like engineered wood. While both floors are durable, laminate is scratch-resistant making it ideal for high-traffic areas.  Engineered can handle light to moderate wear well, though it's susceptible to dents.

3. Comfort & Warmth

Between the two, engineered wood offers a warmer feel underfoot, thanks to its real wood top layer. The natural wood retains heat better than laminate, but underlay can help improve its comfort.  Underfloor heating is popular in Irish homes so luckily both flooring options are compatible with this feature. Engineered flooring offers a softer, more natural feel underfoot due to its real wood veneer. This makes engineered flooring the perfect choice for homeowners seeking a cosy, warm flooring.

4. Installation Costs & DIY

Installation differs between the two floors. Laminate is notably known for being easy to install as it often features a click-lock system, making it suitable for DIY enthusiasts. Whereas, engineered wood often requires professional installation, particularly when using methods like glueing or nailing it down. Laminate flooring is generally quicker and more affordable to install compared to engineered wood thanks to the click-lock system. Its DIY-friendliness reduces labour costs and minimises installation time. The cost of installing engineered wood can vary significantly depending on the installation method used. If you are planning to install floors or book an installation you can avail of our measuring service. 

5. Maintenance & Cleaning Requirements

Laminate can be a better choice for busy households with kids or pets as it requires minimal maintenance. Its durable, scratch-resistant surface is easy to clean with regular vacuuming or mopping and keeps a consistent appearance. Although engineered flooring lasts longer, it requires more maintenance and needs specific wood cleaners to maintain its finish as harsh chemicals can damage the real wood veneer. Both engineered wood and laminate flooring require quick cleanup of spills to prevent potential damage. It is especially important for engineered floors as excessive exposure can cause the floor to warp. Laminate is highly resistant to scratches and stains, making it easier to care for in high-traffic areas.

6. Cost Comparison of Engineered Wood & Laminate

The cost of a laminate floor tends to be less than an engineered floor making it a budget-friendly option. Although higher in price, engineered wood can add more value to a home, making it a worthwhile investment. As previously mentioned, laminate requires minimal upkeep so long-term maintenance costs may be lower.  Engineered wood typically costs more upfront than laminate, but it can last significantly longer with proper care. Its durable construction and the ability to refinish the surface make it a long-term investment that retains its beauty and functionality for decades. The choice between laminate or engineered depends on each person's budget and overall aesthetic goals as both are different in that regard. If you want a cost breakdown for installing laminate floors you can find out in our blog here.

7. Moisture Resistance

Engineered wood, while more moisture-resistant than solid wood, is not entirely immune to water damage. Engineered wood is an excellent choice for rooms with moderate humidity levels, such as living rooms and bedrooms due to its layered construction. While laminates synthetic materials make it resistant to moisture it is not completely waterproof. Look out for laminates that are now designed with water-resistant technology as this will add extra protection against moisture.  Note nether laminate or engineered is ideal for bathrooms or other areas with heavy exposure to moisture unless specifically rated. For more information, you can see our guide to water-resistant flooring here. 

Engineered Wood Flooring Pros and Cons

Pros:

Engineered flooring has many pro's including:

• Engineered flooring features a top layer of real hardwood, giving it the same look and feel as solid wood that enhances home value.
• Engineered wood flooring is highly durable, thanks to its layered construction, which provides stability and resistance to wear. Its real wood veneer can be refinished multiple times, extending its lifespan and maintaining its appearance.
• Engineered wood flooring is highly resistant to temperature fluctuations, making it an ideal choice for Irish homes, where the climate often brings varying temperatures and humidity levels.
• Its stability makes it suitable for use with underfloor heating systems, unlike many solid hardwood options.
• Engineered wood flooring offers excellent longevity, making it a great investment for homeowners. Homes with well-maintained engineered wood floors often command higher prices.

Cons:

Although engineered flooring has many benefits it does have some drawbacks:

• Engineered flooring is generally more expensive than laminate.
• While engineered wood flooring is more resistant to moisture than solid wood, it is still sensitive to water exposure and requires careful maintenance to preserve its integrity.
• It can be difficult to install yourself so professional installation is often recommended.
• While engineered wood flooring is durable, it is not entirely immune to scratches or dents, especially under heavy impact or in high-traffic areas.
• Although engineered flooring can be refinished, the options are limited compared to solid wood.

Laminate Flooring Pros and Cons

Pros:

Laminate flooring has become a popular flooring choice for Irish homeowners and has many advantages:

• Laminate is generally cheaper than engineered making it a more budget-friendly option.
• Laminate is easier to install thanks to its click-locking systems, perfect for DIY projects.
• Laminate is scratch and stain resistant making it ideal for high-traffic areas. 
• Laminate has a printed top layer meaning it comes in a wide range of designs and patterns.
• Laminate requires little maintenance and is easy to clean with regular vacuuming or mopping.

Cons:

While laminate is a more affordable option it does have its disadvantages:

• Unlike engineered, laminate flooring cannot be refinished if damaged.
• Laminate flooring may feel cooler and less natural underfoot compared to materials like carpet or hardwood.
• Unless it’s water-resistant, laminate is not suitable for moisture-prone areas.
• Laminate does not have as much resale value compared to engineered wood as buyers often go for longevity and a more authentic look.
• Lower-quality laminate may look less realistic which can detract from the space's overall aesthetic.

Hardwood Flooring vs Laminate Flooring FAQs

Is engineered flooring better than laminate?

Whether engineered flooring is better than laminate depends on your needs, preferences, and budget. Engineered flooring lasts longer but comes at a higher price point than laminate.

Is engineered flooring suitable for a kitchen?

Yes, engineered wood flooring can be a suitable choice for a kitchen, provided certain precautions are taken.

Where should you not use laminate?

You should avoid using laminate in bathrooms or kitchens (unless its stated to be water-resistant).

What will ruin laminate flooring?

Excessive water or moisture exposure and neglecting regular maintenance can ruin laminate flooring.

Does engineered flooring scratch easily?

Engineered wood flooring is more resistant to scratches compared to solid hardwood flooring, however it is not completely scratch proof.

Choose the Right Flooring for Your Home with Des Kelly Interiors

Here at Des Kelly Interiors, we have 50+ years of experience in flooring and have an extensive range of laminate and engineered flooring options which you can view online or in-store. When considering flooring solutions, it's important to choose products tailored to your specific environment and lifestyle. Des Kelly Interiors excels in providing high-quality flooring options designed specifically for the Irish climate and way of life. We also offer a free home consultation where we will bring our showroom to you and help you select the best flooring for your home. Contact us today to find your perfect flooring.