The Laminate Looks Fake

Today, Billie from Seattle asks:

I think laminate looks too fake, what can I do that is real wood but that we can install easily?

One thing to consider is that not all laminates are created equal. Some have what they call “embossed in register” which basically means the is texture on the coating, that matches the lines and grain of the wood. Thus giving a more natural look, by giving the wood grain depth. Many brands make laminate that looks more realistic. A few of these are Pergo, Shaw, Armstrong and Dupont. These are generally the higher end styles, so you will have to spend more than the bargain laminates that can be found at Costco, Ikea, Home Depot and Lowes at under $1.00 a square foot. With that, comes increased durability as well. But I digress, because this was not your question.

You have several options of real wood flooring that don’t have to be glued or nailed down, they are floating floors just like laminate. You roll out the underlayment (usually a foam pad) and you snap them together and they are done.

Some decent brands I’ve seen are found in stock at the major home improvement warehouses. Lowe’s has Bruce Lock&Fold or Locking Hardwood that starts at $3.78 a square foot. Most of the colors appeared to be different oaks, with the typical gunstock, butterscotch, natural and spice in stock. It’s a solid 3/8″ wood board which means it can be sanded and refinished in the future. Lock&Fold has a 25 year warranty. Each board is beveled and offers traditional wood look.

Another brand is Universal’s VersaStrip available at Home Depot for starting at just $3.78 a square foot as well. It comes in 3 in stock colors (2 oaks and a maple) and offers wider planks, just like laminate. It is an engineered wood floor that has “Self-activating, pre-applied glue” on every seam on every board. This helps with the alignment of the boards, giving you a tight fit. It has a 30 year wear warranty and can also be sanded and refinished at least twice. VersaStrip does not have beveled edges yet still maintains the real wood look, which is great for those of you out there that are interested in as low maintenance floors as possible. Giving no where for dirt to hide. VersaStrip doesn’t have to acclimate so you can literally go out and purchase it and install it today, unlike other wood and laminate floors.

Both of these floors are beautiful when installed. The major difference is board size and beveled or smooth edges. If you seek something a little less traditional, check out Thomasville’s engineered wood flooring, available only at Home Depot. They have 3 colors in stock: Jatoba, Walnut and Mahogany. They are slightly more expensive at almost $5.00 a square foot and offer a more dramatic elegant look. This engineered wood flooring can be glued, nailed or floated. I’m not sure why anyone would want to nail or glue if it wasn’t absolutely necessary, but the option is there if you want it.

As you can see you have other options for an easy installation. The hardest part will be deciding on a color, planning out and the cutting of the boards. If you need tips on installation, check out your local library, go to a how to clinic or just ask The Flooring Diva!

Do you have questions about the selecting or the installation of: tile, carpet or wall treatments (window blinds, etc)? Then email me your tale of woe and perhaps I will be able to answer your questions right here at the Flooring Diva Blog!

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