Hardwood flooring is 100-percent solid wood. Laminate has no solid wood. Solid hardwood is thick and can be sanded many times. Laminate is thin and can never be sanded because the top is not wood. Solid hardwood and laminate flooring can look remarkably alike, especially from a distance. High-definition imaging techniques make some laminate flooring a dead-ringer for real hardwood.

Of all the differences that distinguish laminate flooring vs hardwood flooring, real solid wood is the biggest difference between the two. As the name hardwood implies, real hardwood flooring is made from 100% naturally occurring timber that is cut and sourced for flooring work. Laminate flooring has no solid wood in it, and at most, it has compressed wood chips in its core layer. A real hardwood floor, unlike laminate flooring, can be restored and refinished if desired.

Hardwood is tough and resistant, and even scratches or water damage can be repaired. If you decide you don’t like the stain on your hardwood floor, you can bring new life by hiring a professional for hardwood floor refinishing services. Regardless of the species of wood, whether oak, hickory, maple, or cherry, it can all be restored to look as good as new after years of wear. Once laminate flooring is worn out, and the top layer is faded, the whole floor needs to be replaced. Refinishing is not an option. A real hardwood floor has a soft and more natural feel underfoot. As laminate flooring is synthetic, it’s slightly harder underfoot and can make some harsh sounds when walked on.