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“Should I go with hardwood or laminate flooring?” This is a common question homeowners ask us when planning their home remodel. Maybe you’ve found yourself asking this question. If so, just know that there is no one correct answer. The choice that is right for you depends entirely on your family and your priorities for your home. 

Let’s take a quick look at some of the properties of laminate and hardwood flooring. Laminate is comprised of several layers of synthetic materials. It has a stabilizing layer on the bottom that helps to resist moisture, a layer of fiberboard to add strength, and a unique photographic layer on top to give the look of wood or even other materials such as stone. It’s most valued for its cost, durability, and easy DIY installation. Hardwood is just as it sounds — natural wood harvested from various types of trees or even bamboo. Hardwood is a favorite of many builders and homeowners because of its classic look, longevity, and environmental friendliness. 

We’ve compiled a list of pros and cons to think about, along with a few questions for you to ask yourself when facing this major design decision. 

Hardwood:

Hardwood Pros

  • Can last a lifetime when properly cared for
  • Can be sanded and refinished
  • Adds resale value to you home
  • Easy to clean
  • Classic wood appearance 
  • Environmentally friendly 

Hardwood Cons

  • More expensive 
  • Often requires professional install
  • Not recommended for wet or damp areas
  • Hard underfoot
  • Louder 
  • Sensitive to UV light 

Laminate:

Laminate Pros

  • Easy DIY install
  • Affordable
  • Best for kids, pets, and radiant heating
  • Water, stain, and UV resistant
  • Easy to clean
  • Softer and quieter underfoot

Laminate Cons

  • Can not be refinished
  • Typically lasts around 10 years
  • Less authentic look
  • Does not add resale value to you home
  • Less environmentally friendly
  • Can stain or warp if spills are left too long.

 

Questions to ask yourself:

Do I have pets or kids?

Laminate is often recommended for families with pets or young children. This is mainly due to the fact that it is more scratch and stain resistant than hardwood.

Am I planning on reselling anytime soon?

If you are planning on reselling your home soon after replacing the floors, you should consider hardwood as it typically increases the value of the home.

What is my budget?

Your budget is a big factor to consider when choosing a type of flooring. Hardwood can be expensive, and many people opt for laminate simply because it’s less costly. 

Is the room dry or prone to dampness?

If your room is prone to dampness, such as a kitchen or bathroom, you should consider laminate’s water resistance as an important factor. If it is a dry room such as a living room or bedroom, hardwood will give you a warmer and more authentic feel. 

The best part about this debate is that there is really no wrong answer. Whatever you choose is best for your home, and your family will provide you with many benefits for years to come! 

 

Are you ready to turn your current home into your dream home? We are ready to help!

Click here for your free consultation! 

Filed Under: Bathroom, Dream Home, Kitchens, Remodel Tips Tagged With: construction, design, flooring, Hardwood, home, laminate, remodeling

It’s no secret that being outside is good for body and soul. The air is fresh, the sky is clear… who are we kidding, this is the Pacific Northwest, the sky is most likely grey. But it’s invigorating nonetheless and scientists and doctors alike tell us the amazing benefits of spending time in the great outdoors. And the outdoors really is great around here! Nature is also an amazing source of peace and creative inspiration. Unfortunately, the reality is that our fast-paced lives usually keep us indoor more than we would like (and maybe more than is good for us).

 

 

 

Thankfully, it is possible to bring a little bit of the outdoors home, while adding color and classic décor to your house. I think the best way to do this is through houseplants! There are so many benefits to having houseplants. They clean the air, help prevent you from getting sick, are natural air fresheners and humidifiers, and can even improve mental health! This is all beside the point that they are a chic and dare I say, inexpensive, way to decorate your home.

 

Ok, I know half of you are thinking “but I don’t have a green thumb, I could never keep a plant alive…” I used to think this myself until I was gifted a Peace Lily and realized how easy most plants actually are to keep alive. Now, 11 years later, my house is full of lovely plants (including that same Peace Lily) that bring great health benefits to my family and so much joy to my creative, nature-loving heart!

Just go for it!

Most plants are so forgiving and tell you when they need water (drooping, soft or discolored leaves). And if you buy from your local nursery, they are sure to have some experts who can advise you on what ones like shade, which ones prefer sun and how much water they need. Don’t worry if you forget or have more questions, just search Pinterest (I credit the health of most of my plants to Pinterest).

 

So now that you are convinced, here is a list of my favorite houseplants. Don’t worry they are all great beginner plants!

Fiddle Leaf Fig Tree

Not only is the Fiddle Leaf lovely, but it can also grow to be quite large which can make a big statement in a room (and provide a bit more heath promoting power).

Rubber Tree

These can be found in both dark green and pastel green shades, which make them fun for decorating!

Snake Plant

This plant is almost indestructible and it’s tall leaves make a bold statement.

Split Leaf Philodendron

Besides the Fig Tree, this might be the most popular plant on Pinterest and for good reason! These are so beautiful and they grow fast and are easy to care for. This is my personal favorite at home!

Peace Lily

These plants are lovely and full. They occasionally produce white flowers and always live up to their name.

The best way to pick out plants is to know ahead of time where you would like to put them in your home. Assess how much light is available there and then visit your local nursery to find your favorites! And above all, have fun! Plants are supposed to make you happy after all!

Ready to make a better home for you (and your plants)? Click here to see how we can help!

Filed Under: Culture, Decorating, Design, Lifestyle, Outdoor Living Tagged With: decorating, home, houseplants, lifestyle, plants

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Puyallup

  • 14110 Canyon Road E
    Puyallup, WA 98373
  • (253) 682-1990
  • info@remodelingbyrenewal.com

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