If you love the look of solid hardwood, we’ll let you in on a little secret: you can get that look for about a fraction of the cost. Turns out, there are a few wood-look flooring choices that are affordable, easy to install, minimal in maintenance, and super stylish. So, if you’re looking for a hardwood that fits any of those descriptions, let’s walk through five wood-look options to give your home the style and functionality it deserves.
Laminate is one of the most cost-effective alternatives to hardwood. And thanks to its clear protective coating, it’s highly durable. Many laminate manufacturers have developed their styles to have similar hardwood looks and grain patterns—giving you the exact aesthetic you need for much less out of pocket.
Engineered hardwood planks are much more durable than hardwood floors. Its top hardwood layer gives you a classic, natural look, coming in a variety of styles—whether you love hickory, oak, or a contemporary gray. Its bottom layers consist of bonded ply to set a strong base structure. This core prevents it from expanding with high temperatures and moisture, and gives your home the durability it needs, even in the most high-traffic areas.
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Wood-Look Tile
It’s true. Now you can get the look of hardwood plus the functionality of tile. Perfect for bathrooms and kitchens, wood-look tile allows you to keep your hardwood styles consistent throughout your home, even in areas prone to spills. Tile is resistant to water, heat, and humidity, making it a great stain-resistant option. Plus, it’s durable, inexpensive, and easy to install.
Luxury vinyl is an increasingly popular hardwood alternative. Its ultra-realistic top layer is printed to display real hardwood and is covered by a clear, protective layer above. Some manufacturers offer luxury vinyl with a textured wear layer that mimics the look of wood grain to make it even more realistic. Luxury vinyl is highly durable and affordable, making it one of the most popular wood-look alternatives out there.
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Waterproof Hardwood
Waterproof hardwood is the newest technology in hardwood flooring. It has a genuine hardwood veneer over a luxury vinyl core. The veneer is protected with a clear melamine layer that makes this product completely waterproof. It’s perfect for those high moisture areas that traditional solid hardwood is not recommended for.
Need Help Installing Floors in Your Home? Ask the Experts at Factory Flooring
What type of underlayment should you use? How many inches thick? How do you install it? And how do you avoid damaging your floors in the process?
When you work with Factory Flooring, you don’t have to worry about these questions. Our team of professional flooring installers will handle all the heavy lifting for you — literally. All you have to do is relax and enjoy the savings on your energy bill.
Need to get more flooring ideas first? Our design blog has dozens of articles to help you get started. Whenever you’re ready to tackle your insulation project, we’ll be here to help. Contact us online to get started, or call Factory Flooring at 469-583-7053 .