Engineered hardwood floors are renowned for their solid wood construction, allowing them to be sanded and restored multiple times. This makes them stand out in terms of longevity, with a lifespan of 20 to 30 years. When it comes to replacing an old, worn-out carpet or linoleum, there are several factors to consider, such as the function of the space, traffic levels, ease of maintenance, and lifespan. Price is also an important factor when installing new floors.
Linoleum is more durable than vinyl floor covering and can be cut by hand to form intricate patterns; however, it cannot be left wet and is prone to scratches if not polished regularly. Laminate floors have a considerably shorter life than hardwood floors. Hardwood floors can be repainted several times before needing to be replaced, dramatically extending their life. Hardwood floors have a significantly longer lifespan than most types of flooring available, lasting up to 100 years with proper maintenance and care.
This is why we still see some houses with wooden floors from the 1850s. Of course, there are many types of floor coverings available, but hardwood floors continue to stand out for their unmatched beauty, natural feel, and warmth. To achieve a long life for your hardwood floors, there are some details that need to be considered. If durability is the number one criterion for your living room floors, porcelain will be at the top of the list along with ceramic.
Premium natural stone is also durable, but check the qualities of each stone with your supplier. The wood is also wear-resistant and has the advantage that it can be repainted if damaged. Laminate floors will never pass for real hardwood for the discerning eye, but they can be a useful floor in many situations. Many concrete floors contain a high level of humidity or are now dry, but over the years a poor layer of moisture will allow moisture to seep in and cause serious damage to the hardwood floor.
Engineered wood floors look almost identical to the hardwood surface, but instead of a single wooden board, they are made of a high-quality plywood core with a thin layer of hardwood at the top. They aren't waterproof but perform better in humid locations compared to hardwood. Luxury vinyl tiles and planks are relatively new to the flooring market but have quickly proven to be very popular due to their durability and versatility. When it comes down to it, hardwood floors are a timeless investment that never goes out of style.
They may be old-fashioned but at Fin Wood we continue to maintain the motto created for life. Of all the types of flooring on the market, hardwood is one of the most expensive but offers unparalleled longevity and beauty. With proper care and maintenance, hardwood floors can last for decades and add real estate value to your home.
