Which is better? Laminate for the floor or hardwood?

Question

I have carpet in all rooms except the kitchen and bathroom, and I estimate it to be as old as the house.(45 years old). The area to do is about 775 sq. ft. I lifted part of the carpet and there is 1/2" of white foam over a sub floor. The floor squeaks in many places and my bf says we will need to hammer or screw the boards. Which is better for that ? Any other things I need to consider? Thanks in advance.

Answer 1

Depends on how much money you want to spend....personally, I opted for tongue and groove wood laminate floors. They are much cheaper, less difficult to install, and much easier to care for. I have three kids and pets in the house....

Yes, you do need to screw the squeaking boards down. I would suggest screwing them down, since nails can come up over time.

Make sure that you use the appropriate lining under the wood laminate if you choose the laminate.

Good luck.

Answer 2

The first thing is to get a scraper and get the old foam back carpet out. Screw down the floor to eliminate the squeaks, nails can back out over time. Laminate, though durable is next to impossible to repair once it is scratched. Real hardwood $1 for $1 is the best way to go. I don't know where you live but expect to pay from $7.50-$10.00 a square foot, installed price for a pre-finished product like Bruce. Taken care of it can last a lifetime, and can be repaired, and sanded down and refinished after 20 years when the finish becomes rough and worn.

Answer 3

Laminate flooring is more durable. It doesnt' get scratched up as easily as hardwood. It' you have pets and it's a high traffice area I would say laminate...but if you can afford to have them redone ever so often....hardwood...looks alot better.

Answer 4

If u intend to put a new floor, your best choice if hardwood.