What the flooring will be like is one of the first questions that we have to solve when renovating any room. Many people want the floor in the kitchen to be wooden, so it is important for them to know what is better - parquet board or laminate. Each material has its advantages and disadvantages.
The parquet board looks impressive and solid, adding discreet nobility to the atmosphere
Parquet boards – prestige, quality, reliability
Many people believe that laminate flooring is more suitable for offices. People who prefer quality things and can afford to buy expensive flooring choose parquet. In terms of price, it is much more expensive than any laminate.
Many people confuse the concepts of parquet and parquet boards. The parquet board consists of three layers. Bottom layer – veneer coniferous species(layer thickness - about 2 mm), the second - wooden planks, which are laid perpendicular to the top and bottom layers. Also here are the outermost locking slats. It is due to them that the parquet is laid so quickly. The top layer of the parquet board is wood valuable species(oak, ash, birch, beech). The same wood is used to make piece parquet. The attractiveness and durability of the parquet board depends on the top layer. It's being impregnated special solutions, which help preserve the beauty of the parquet board for several (or even many) years.
Attractive natural wood pattern enhances decorative possibilities parquet board
People value wood for its naturalness and warmth. It warms even a minimalist interior. The characteristics of wood species, the endless possibilities of laying parquet boards, and new technologies for the production of this material significantly expand the artistic possibilities of parquet. The wooden floor is cozy and warm. But when varnished in several layers, the natural comfort disappears. To keep this the same valuable property parquet boards, it is recommended to use wax or oil as a coating rather than varnish. They do not hide the beauty of the wood and leave the texture natural. Oil coating updated every few years.
Parquet boards have a complex structure that improves specifications this type of flooring
Parquet board design can be single-strip, double-strip or three-strip. Single-strip parquet board has upper layer made from a single strip of wood, so you can see the grain of the wood. In two- and three-strip parquet boards, the top layer consists of two or three rows of lamellas, which can be of different lengths, so the pattern looks unusual. This type of parquet board does not differ in appearance from parquet laid in a deck pattern. There are also models that imitate piece parquet laid in a “wicker” or “herringbone” pattern. As for the pattern of the top layer of the parquet board, it depends on the cut, and can vary from uniform striped to variegated with veins and knots. A wide variety of wood types and processing options allows you to choose parquet boards of any color.
Parquet board, like laminate, is a material ready for installation. The parquet board is sanded, coated with varnishes and protective agents. Laying both laminate and parquet boards is quite simple, and the floor can be disassembled and assembled if necessary.
Laminate – easy to maintain, durable, attractive price
Laminate is one of the most common floor coverings. Relatively recently, it replaced parquet boards and became a worthy competitor to it. Over the past few years, laminate production technologies have developed so much that the coating can compete with many other varieties. Unlike parquet, laminate does not require sanding, impregnation or varnishing; it does not change color when exposed to sunlight; floors can be washed using chemicals for washing laminate flooring. As you can see, the coating gives the owner little trouble.
Laminate has its own advantages and disadvantages, first of all, a wide variety of textures and shades
Laminate is not scary Sun rays, frequent washing and mechanical damage to the surface. Stains can be removed with acetone or any product with a high alcohol content, and if you clean the room daily, you can get by with a regular damp cloth or vacuum cleaner. Scratches, if they are minor, can be masked with a repair pencil or putty. Laminate flooring is afraid of one thing - excess moisture, although there is also moisture-resistant laminate. If you properly care for the coating, it will last a long time and remain smooth and beautiful, as on the first day after installation.
As already mentioned, laying laminate flooring is quite simple. It all depends on its lock (fastening), the condition of the floor in the room. The fastest way to install laminate flooring is with a “click” glueless lock, since installation does not require any glue or special tools.
What is the difference between laminate and parquet boards
Laminate and parquet boards are the most popular floor coverings. Both guarantee a reliable and durable floor at an affordable price. Sometimes laminate and parquet boards are so similar in appearance that it can be difficult for a person not involved in construction to distinguish them. What is the difference between laminate and parquet boards?
- Mode of production
The parquet board consists of three layers of veneer, while the lower layers are cheaper raw materials, and the top layer is quality materials. Laminate can be compared to photo wallpaper, which is glued onto a multi-layer fibreboard.
- Appearance flooring
As for the appearance, laminate flooring is most often decorated exactly like a parquet board. But the pattern on each board is identical, which cannot be said about a parquet board. You won’t find two identical boards here, since the pattern is identical to the wood structure. In addition, laminate flooring with a “marbled” or “tiled” pattern is available for sale.
Parquet boards, like laminate flooring, are made in such a way that their installation does not cause any difficulties.
Laminate is considered a more practical material. It is resistant to abrasion, and it is quite difficult to damage it with shoes or furniture. Parquet boards require careful treatment. The enemies of this flooring are heavy furniture, heels, changes in humidity and temperature, so think carefully about whether it is worth laying parquet boards in the kitchen. If you compare laminate with parquet boards, laminate may seem like a colder material than parquet boards, for the manufacture of which it is used natural wood. It is also believed that laminate flooring is noisier (it allows noise to pass through, and steps can be clearly heard). But these disadvantages can be avoided if you use modern means for sound insulation - special substrates for laminate or parquet. The substrates are made of polyethylene 2 mm thick and natural cork. Cork backing is more expensive because cork is a natural material that is considered more environmentally friendly. The underlay is not nailed to the floor, but simply placed on it before work begins.
- Features of care
If you decide to have parquet flooring in your kitchen, immediately purchase special means to care for him. The mop you use to clean your floors should be only slightly damp, and your vacuum cleaner should not use the steam function. Laminate is also sensitive to humidity, but to a much lesser extent than parquet boards. Household chemicals It is not recommended to use it during floor cleaning.
- Service life of laminate and parquet boards
In appearance, parquet boards seem to be a fragile coating, but with proper care they can last up to 30 years. You can extend the life of a parquet board through restoration and sanding, but these procedures can be done approximately 4 times over the entire period. Laminate flooring lasts from 7 to 20 years. A coating with a high wear class lasts longer. Extends the life of the laminate and proper care behind him.
- Flooring price
The simpler structure of the laminate affects its price, but not its quality
A high-quality laminate is not much inferior in price to a parquet board, so when deciding on the advisability of purchasing a particular floor covering, be guided by its properties and take into account the characteristics of the room for which this covering is intended.
Deciding on the choice of flooring
It turns out that parquet boards are more durable. Its surface can be renewed. Laminate medium price category serves no more than 8 years. Craftsmen have also come up with ways to restore laminate flooring, but the method is quite expensive. It’s easier to buy a new coating and at the same time change the color.
What some consider to be a disadvantage of laminate, others recognize as its advantage. The material, of course, is short-lived compared to parquet boards, but there is a positive aspect to this: you don’t mind parting with it. Abroad, where people change apartments and offices quite often, this material is very popular. Laminate is not afraid of ladies' heels, which your children might want to ride around the house on, metal models cars. Laminate flooring can be laid even where you most likely would not risk laying parquet boards (in the kitchen, for example).
A few words about laying parquet and laminate flooring
Laying laminate flooring, like parquet boards, should be carried out according to the principle “if you don’t know how, don’t try it.” In any case, the coating brought from the store must be brought into the room and left for at least two days so that the material “settles” and gets used to the humidity and air temperature in the room.
For laying laminate and parquet boards, it is better to invite professional craftsmen on floor coverings, not craftsmen, which are placed quickly, crookedly, inexpensively. In terms of installation, laminate is a rather capricious material, and there is only one chance to install it correctly. It is not glued to the floor, but laid “floating” - the boards are connected to each other using the “tongue and groove” method. Therefore, the laminate can be removed very easily. One bad thing is that it is removed once and for all. If you have removed the lampmat, you will no longer be able to put it in another room.
Manufacturers made sure that the work of laying the floor covering was simple and not particularly labor-intensive
If you invite laminate specialists, make sure that they do not glue the boards to the floor, especially with PVA glue. The laminate will first swell and then shrink. If you really need to use glue, let it be a special glue that is produced specifically for laminate flooring. Also make sure that the craftsmen do not lay the boards parallel to the window. The light from the window must fall parallel to the boards, otherwise the joints will be noticeable.
If the floor is uneven, it must be leveled before you begin laying the flooring.
Let's summarize:
- Parquet board requires special conditions care Laminate is not afraid of temperature changes and mechanical stress.
- For the manufacture of parquet boards, natural wood is used, and for laminate - synthetic materials.
- Laminate designs are much more varied.
- The floor on which the parquet board is laid is beautiful, warm, and quiet.
- Parquet boards last much longer.
- Laminate flooring is usually cheaper than parquet boards.
Dreaming of something new beautiful field Most owners seriously think about the need to choose a certain material after completing the rough work. The huge assortment presented by the stores makes one doubt even the correctness of the categorical opinion of the design project.
Parquet and laminate flooring look especially attractive, but buyers often lack information to choose between them. In addition to the characteristics, general descriptions and clarification of the disadvantages of each option are also necessary.
Many people are also interested in the possibility of replacing parquet boards with laminate or vice versa, because it is often not possible to distinguish them during a cursory examination.
Renovations often present surprises that force you to go beyond your budget. Excess costs make themselves felt at the finishing stage, inviting owners to increase the amount of funds or come up with less expensive options (compared to the estimate).
Description of laminate and parquet
Laminate is mistakenly called a synthetic material. Its basis is dense MDF board. For its production, completely natural wood sawdust and resins are used that are pressed.
Helpful information! Regarding the top layer, the skeptical view of aesthetes is completely justified. The beautiful appearance of wood turns out to be nothing more than a securely protected photograph that carefully repeats the same type of design. Acrylic resin usually acts as a protective layer.
In turn, parquet boards, even being a multilayer material, bear the proud title of being completely natural. Wood elements are used for production different varieties. Cheap wood is suitable for the lower layers. Solid expensive varieties perfectly serve as the top layer.
Thanks to its unique base, the parquet board has characteristics almost identical to the parquet itself. At the same time, its price is significantly lower. Home distinctive feature is the size. Solid parquet planks are definitely smaller. When making a comparative description of parquet and laminate, the first refers to the parquet itself and the parquet board.
Laminate characteristics
Knowing all the advantages and disadvantages of this material allows you to confidently choose it as a floor covering or make sure that parquet in this particular case is the only possible option.
Advantages over parquet
- Practicality. Mechanical damage in the form of scratches, dents and even heavy loads, such as pressure from heavy furniture, do not harm the laminate. He keeps the same attractive appearance, does not bend.
- Resistant to fire and moisture. Natural wood does not have such properties.
- Rich texture. Parquet can offer only the pattern of natural wood, while laminate can imitate a natural stone, tiles. Design solutions with various inscriptions, similar to those shown in the photo below, and even graffiti are gaining popularity.
- Easy to install. The laminate is produced with a special locking technology, which allows you to get high-quality and simple assembly even when laying without assistants.
- Comfortable care. Laminate does not require owners to special effort when leaving. Sufficient wet processing without using harmful substances. You can learn more about the features of care detailed information in the appropriate section.
- Possibility of installing “warm floor”. The temperature difference that invariably accompanies the operation of a heated floor cannot be withstood by wood almost without deformation. Laminate copes with this task perfectly. A separate article is devoted to the intricacies of installing “warm floors” under laminate.
- Wide range of applications. Laminate flooring is not limited to creating coziness only in residential areas. He boldly decides to withstand the load in schools, hospitals, office premises, hotels. This material is not afraid of any shoes, even women’s favorite stiletto heels.
- Duration of service. Manufacturers usually promise that the floor will function properly for at least 10 years. In some cases more than 25 years.
Flaws
- Cold surface. The resin covering the design is not able to heat up. The result is a feeling of always cool floor.
- Low sound insulation. Laminate reacts too actively to impact. Without a special substrate, noise gradually turns into a constantly annoying factor.
- Restoration is impossible. The board that lost its original appearance, can only be replaced. For such a procedure, you will have to completely disassemble the entire coating and reassemble it.
- Static electricity loves laminate flooring. You can get rid of the problem only with the help of special means - antistatic agents.
Characteristics of parquet
In addition to environmental friendliness and absolute naturalness, parquet has a number of other features.
Advantages of parquet
- Comfort of touch. A warm and pleasant surface is unique to parquet. Walking on it barefoot gives a lot of pleasure.
- Restoration if necessary. At any time, the damaged element can be sanded or varnished without removal from the series. The video from this page will remove the veil of secrecy from the process of parquet restoration.
- Resistance to the accumulation of static electricity.
- Long service life. Some types of wood allow parquet to be used for several decades.
Flaws
- A special microclimate is required. To prevent swelling, it is necessary to monitor the humidity in the room. High temperatures or changes can cause the floor to dry out.
- Careful care. Flooring requires special products and special technologies for their application. To save aesthetically pleasing Parquet requires regular varnishing and sanding.
- Vulnerability to mechanical stress. Parquet floors scratch easily, and heavy furniture can cause them to sag.
- High price. Laminate is significantly inferior in price to parquet, if you do not take into account the premium for quality of workmanship or exclusivity of design.
Conclusion
It is impossible to set strict boundaries determining the possibility or impossibility of using each of these materials in certain situations.
You will have to make a choice between them, focusing on their advantages and disadvantages.
The choice of floor covering must be approached responsibly, because it is installed with a long service life in mind. That is why it is necessary to carefully study the range of this product and its characteristics. Laminate flooring or parquet boards attract the attention of consumers more often than others.
Laminate
The basis of the laminate is chipboard or fiberboard impregnated with special resins. Its surface, matte or semi-matte, is decorated like wood and has a rough structure similar to natural veneer, which protects against slipping.
The slab is about a meter long and about 20 centimeters wide and consists of several layers of chipboard or fibrous material, where each layer has its own purpose:
A special plastic waterproof bottom layer increases rigidity and protects the boards from deformation.
There are types where a special noise-insulating substrate is added to the bottom layer. The main hard layer is a load-bearing layer, made of high-density wood fiber material. A special recess and protrusion of the locking connection are cut into it. Special impregnation provides waterproofing; this layer performs the main functions of heat and sound insulation, and ensures resistance to stress.
The decorative function is performed by a layer of thick paper similar to photo wallpaper, the pattern on which resembles the texture of natural wood or stone. This layer is covered with special protective transparent resins that protect the boards from abrasion and various mechanical loads.
Laminate flooring is installed in premises for various purposes (apartments, offices, shops, public spaces), depending on which material of classes 31-34 is used. The higher the indicator, the higher the load resistance.
Laminate flooring is laid using glueless interlocking of tiles.
To prevent moisture from getting between the panels when laying them, you can use a special sealant. Moisture that gets onto the surface is not absorbed and can be easily removed with a napkin or rag. However, with prolonged exposure to water, the laminate flooring may become deformed and cannot be repaired.
Laying laminate
Laminate - fireproof, practical and durable material for flooring, easy to clean with a damp cloth without using cleaning agents, not exposed to sunlight.
Parquet board
The basis of the parquet board is noble natural wood, this factor determines the interest in this type of flooring.
It should be distinguished from parquet - small solid wood strips or planks made from hard wood. These planks are laid out on the floor in the form of a specific pattern. In the manufacture of parquet boards, several layers of veneer are used - thin sheets of wood.
Parquet board
The layers are glued together in such a way that the fibers of each wood sheet are located across the fibers of the previous one.
This protects the material from deformation during minor fluctuations in temperature and humidity. Cheap raw materials (spruce, pine) are used for the lower layers, and high-quality varnished wood is used for the outer layer. The thickness of the panels varies: from 7 to 25 mm.
Parquet flooring can be installed using adhesive or floating methods.
This floor is quite warm, has high noise insulation values, but it requires special care, as it is afraid of moisture and mechanical damage. It can be vacuumed, but be careful not to scratch the varnish and avoid excessive use of water when washing. The durability of a parquet floor will depend on the thickness of the top layer, which can be sanded 3-4 times if necessary. Thus, if damaged, such a floor can be repaired, which significantly extends the life of this coating. Laying parquet boards The pattern structure is different for each board, since the structure of each tree is individual.
Similarities and differences between laminate and parquet boards
The similarity between laminate and parquet boards lies in the peculiarities of their manufacture - multi-layer composition and installation methods. In the manufacture of laminate, wood processing waste and synthetic materials are used; parquet boards are made from thin sheets of natural wood, which significantly increases its price.
Depending on the class, laminate can be used in rooms with loads of varying intensity, special moisture-resistant ones can be used even in bathrooms, parquet flooring is not able to withstand heavy loads, it is afraid of moisture and temperature changes: in a too dry room it will dry out, if high humidity- will swell. If deformed, a laminate floor cannot be restored; the board can be easily sanded several times and varnished again, which increases its service life.
Design solutions for patterns for laminate flooring are varied, but the noble texture of natural wood is aesthetically pleasing and unique, adding style and sophistication to the interior, which gives parquet boards an undeniable advantage in this regard. As a durable floor covering for home interior In the kitchen, hallway, and living room it is better to use laminate, and in the children's room and bedroom it is more appropriate to lay parquet, since natural wood will give them warmth and comfort.
IN public spaces where the load intensity is quite high, the parquet board will quickly become unusable. Therefore, from the point of view of practicality of use, accessibility and ease of installation, consumers often prefer laminate flooring.
Floor coverings are selected taking into account your own taste preferences, interior style and operating conditions. You can determine a suitable design if you also take into account fashion trends. Today, parquet and laminate are popular.
Both types allow you to create a visually interesting floor covering. But in order to choose one of the options, you need to study in more detail the question of what is better: parquet or laminate. Wherein Special attention refers to the main parameters.
Advantages and disadvantages of laminate
This is a coating consisting of several layers: kraft paper, fiberboard, as well as a printed pattern and protective layer from polymers. Thanks to this structure, the material is lightweight. There are several subtypes of it, designed for different load forces.
The ability to create a printed design allows you to get a product with different external properties, but for the most part laminate imitates natural wood, one of the options is batten. The laminate slabs have a lock that ensures reliable adhesion of the products and virtually eliminates the formation of noticeable leaks.
Main advantages:
- Antistatic characteristics (attracts dust less); The top layer of polymers extends the service life of the laminate, since the material is less susceptible to abrasion; Withstands compressive loads and impacts; Resistant to ultraviolet radiation, chemicals and a significant increase in temperature; You can combine laminate and “warm” floors; Easy maintenance; Wide selection of designs, different in shade and pattern.
Construction and properties of laminate boards
To choose this material for finishing the floor, you need to study the obvious disadvantages.
These include the inability to repair laminate flooring. Soundproofing characteristics only appear if there is a substrate. This material does not tolerate regular exposure to a humid environment.
Pros and cons of parquet
When deciding what to choose: parquet or laminate, it is recommended to study the properties of both types of coatings. If everything is more or less clear with one of the options, then all that remains is to figure out what a parquet board is. This material has excellent external characteristics, thanks to which the floor covering will look fundamental.
This is a structure consisting of several layers of wood of different thicknesses. The layers are located perpendicular to each other. More complex structure prevents the board from deforming when environmental conditions change.
Parquet board design
The top layer provides aesthetic appeal. It is made from expensive wood (for example, oak).
The thickness of this coating varies from 0.5 to 6 mm. The inner layer is simpler and thicker - boards made of pine and spruce. The bottom layer is made from the same rocks, but in the form of plywood and less thick.
Main advantages:
- Excellent sound insulation; Only natural materials are used; Possibility of restoration of the coating; Relatively simple technology installation; Long-term operation due to durable outer coating.
To maintain parquet in perfect condition, you need to periodically treat the coating special compounds(wax).
The disadvantages include faster wear of the protective coating, as well as the inability to use such finishing material for floors in objects with high humidity levels. In addition, parquet will cost more than its laminated counterpart.
Comparison by main parameters
When you need to choose between parquet or laminate flooring, there are a number of key properties to consider. These include the ability to withstand loads, as well as changes in temperature and humidity, external characteristics of the product, frequency and complexity of maintenance, installation recommendations. An important factor is cost.
Impact resistance, load-bearing capacity
When choosing between parquet and laminated material, you need to take into account resistance to loads of varying intensity.
The second option is more reliable, it load bearing capacity increases depending on what subtype of material is involved. The most durable option high pressure. It is difficult to scratch it with shoes and furniture.
Laminate high class, then it is stronger than parquet and more reliable. It cannot be scratched by heels, chair legs or other furniture; it can withstand more weight.
Thanks to the impact-resistant properties of the base, such a laminated product will withstand significant loads without changing its external characteristics, while parquet will quickly become unusable.
Changes in temperature and humidity indicators
If the task is to choose the type of coating (laminate or parquet board), the resistance to external factors. The difference between these options is that natural wood (parquet, floorboards, etc.) is prone to change in size and deformation (dry out or swell) with significant fluctuations in humidity and temperature at the site.
And the laminated coating tolerates any changes in environmental parameters well.
External characteristics
The difference between laminate and parquet boards is also that the natural material looks noble, while the laminated coating is simple. But any floor surface must fit into the interior and match the style of the room.
It is parquet that looks more attractive on the floor - it is elegant and presentable, while laminate screams that it is an artificial substitute for natural material.
Therefore, it is not always advisable to use parquet (high-tech, rustic style direction, modern). It is better to use it in interiors in classic style. This means that laminate is more universal look material.
Difficulty of care
The difference between the coatings under consideration also lies in how often maintenance is required, as well as what measures are used for this. For example, laminate does not tolerate the effects of detergents (powders, etc.) that are inappropriate for the material.
Parquet is more difficult to install; it dries out and creaks. But if you follow him, he will give the laminate a hundred points ahead!
To maintain it, it is enough to clean it regularly with water.
Parquet is more demanding: dirt is removed with a vacuum cleaner, but damage to the protective coating must be avoided. Wipe the material with a slightly damp cloth. In addition, parquet needs to be treated with special compounds for wood.
Selection in accordance with the purpose of the room
If you are deciding which coating is more suitable: laminate or parquet board, you also need to take into account the factor of its suitability intended purpose rooms. It is not customary to install parquet in the bathroom, kitchen or hallway, because it is not practical.
If we talk about the microclimate, then parquet is more capricious; it doesn’t like it to be humid, like laminate, but being too dry is also a problem for it.
But the properties of such a material also do not allow the use of natural wood (floorboards, parquet) in these rooms.
But it is in demand when laying it in the living room, bedroom, nursery or office. Laminate is more versatile, so it can be used almost everywhere. Even created for the bathroom special type laminated coating– with moisture-resistant properties.
Question of price
Parquet boards will cost more than laminate. This rule can only be applied to those cases when low-class laminated material is taken for comparison.
The cost also depends on the brand of product. Therefore, in some cases, both coatings can be classified into the same price category. The difference in price is also observed in the case of parquet, which may differ in structure, wood species and the quality of the board as a whole (smooth material is more expensive).
Large single-strip parquet planks seriously increase the cost of the coating, so the most popular material is a three-strip board.
What is preferable?
If you are deciding on the issue of finishing the floor, you need to get a detailed answer to the question of how parquet differs from laminate. All factors are studied: the structure of materials, their parameters, compliance with the intended purpose of the room, surface quality.
Comparing parquet boards and laminate
You need to be prepared that natural wood (floorboards, parquet) will not be different high reliability under the influence of load forces and impacts. It is easy to scratch and over time you will have to restore the top layer of the coating. The main advantages of parquet in comparison with a laminated surface: durability, but only if correct operation, as well as excellent external characteristics.
Laminate is presented as a more versatile and reliable material than parquet boards. It can withstand fluctuations in temperature and humidity levels in the room.
The laminated surface is not subject to any loads, even very significant ones, but this is only if the material is correctly selected. However, in terms of external characteristics, this option is inferior to parquet boards. This means that for a number of parameters, laminate is a more preferable material.
Laying the flooring is the final stage of the renovation. In this case, the choice of materials must be approached very carefully. The design of the floor largely determines the style and mood of the entire interior.
But, in addition to decorative qualities, it is worth taking into account other characteristics of materials, because the floor covering will be subject to heavy loads. Some of the most popular today are laminate and parquet boards. The materials are similar in appearance, but have completely different composition and properties.
Crash test of laminate and parquet boards
Which is better - laminate or parquet board (video review)
What is the difference between parquet board and laminate
Both materials are available in the form of rectangular boards with locks to facilitate installation.
Laminate is an artificial material based on plastic or composite, most often chipboard. Applied to its surface decorative layer, protected by a polymer film.
Parquet boards are made from natural wood and can consist of several layers glued together. To give a particular shade, tinting oil is used, on top of which is applied protective covering- varnish or oil.
The varnish can be white, colored or transparent with varying degrees of gloss. In addition, the top layer of the parquet board is brushed, tinted, and thermally coated, which also gives the coating additional aesthetic properties. Often parquet boards have a 2- or 4-sided chamfer, which serves visual expansion space.
Laminate or parquet boards: pros and cons
The characteristics of materials are determined by their structure. Laminate flooring, as a well-designed artificial turf, has many advantages.
Advantages of laminate:
number of decors. In addition to standard patterns that imitate wood, manufacturers offer many plain and colored options; practicality.
Laminate flooring works great in both the living room and hallway common use; ease of care. Protective film on the surface does not allow dirt to be absorbed into the coating. To put the floor in order, a vacuum cleaner or a well-wrung out damp cloth is enough; strength.
Laminate is not afraid of heels, it does not form scratches and dents from heels and furniture. maintainability. You can replace a damaged strip by first disassembling the covering until damaged surface, replace, and then reassemble in the same sequence.
Disadvantages of laminate:
cold surface.
If you decide to stand with your bare feet on the floor, you will immediately understand what we are talking about. The coating will be cold if a heating system is not provided during the repair process; noisiness. You can hear every step on the laminate.
If there are neighbors below whom you don’t want to disturb again, you will have to use a noise-absorbing substrate; static. Surface charges can be a serious problem, especially if you have a lot of electronic equipment in your home or office. It is worth choosing an antistatic coating or additionally purchasing a special treatment agent.
Advantages of parquet boards
Parquet boards are considered one of the most respectable floor coverings, and have been popular for hundreds of years. The material has many advantages:
naturalness. Wood flooring cannot be replaced by any of the most modern synthetic materials.
Natural wood has its own unique aroma and creates a special atmosphere in the premises; luxurious appearance. Coverage at correct installation looks very stylish and neat. The assortment includes parquet boards different shades; nice surface.
You can walk on this floor barefoot. It is very warm and not noisy; maintainability. Any chips, scratches, worn areas can be scraped and re-varnished up to four times; the possibility of dismantling and moving to another place.
Disadvantages of parquet boards:
sensitivity to mechanical damage. Sand, heels, and frequent rearrangement of furniture are contraindicated for the coating. The board may even develop a dent from a cabinet or sofa that is too heavy; difficulty of care.
Wash coating wet rag not worth it. Special care products or a well-wrung out cloth are required; the need to maintain a constant, certain thermal regime in the room. Since the parquet board is susceptible to drying out or absorbing moisture, which affects its deformation.
What to choose, parquet boards or laminate?
The renovation of the premises ends with decorative finishing works. They include not only wall and ceiling cladding, but also laying the finishing floor covering. Homeowners are faced with a difficult choice of flooring materials.
The modern construction market offers big choice laminate, parquet, carpet rolls and linoleum. These are not all flooring options. The most common and widely used are laminate and parquet.
Depending on the interior, purpose and service life, the choice of material is made. However, not many people understand the difference between parquet boards and laminate. It is sometimes necessary to understand the parameters and characteristics of products due to the fact that, as a rule, floor coverings are laid for many years.
The service life of the floor depends on the quality and various properties. In order to make it easier to navigate the differences between products, you should compare their characteristics and the essence of the materials used.
The parameters influencing the choice of flooring are as follows:
- The nature of the raw material or what the product is made from.
- Aesthetics.
- How easy it is to install the coating, how to care for the product.
- Moisture resistance, strength, resistance of the material to mechanical stress, wear resistance parameters.
- Price.
Based on these factors, a choice is made in favor of one or another floor covering. A comparative analysis of products will be built on them.
The nature of the raw material or what the product is made from
It is an environmentally friendly product made from different breeds tree. The board consists of three layers, which are assigned various purposes. The coating is usually divided into piece and solid boards.
The first ones are presented in the form of short strips; they are quite easy to install and assemble into different drawings. Solid board differs in size. These are long and fairly wide boards. They are placed as is; they cannot be assembled into a pattern. Piece parquet boards are divided into types according to the method of cutting the product.
Separate tangential and radial strips. The difference can be seen in the design of the board. Moreover, tangential strips are more affordable in price, but inferior to radial ones in characteristics. They are not resistant to temperature changes.
It is a plank made from pressed waste gruss using resins. The board resembles a “sandwich” consisting of several layers. The base of the laminating board is a layer of melamine, waterproof.
The main element of the plank is a fiberboard layer coated with a layer of resin - moisture-resistant protection. The design of the product in the form of a paper layer is placed on the main body of the board. The finishing layer is a transparent film.
Many people believe that laminate coating cannot be compared with parquet boards. However, this material is usually labeled “environmentally friendly”. Laminate coating perfectly imitates parquet and sometimes surpasses its counterpart in some characteristics.
A little limited in terms of colors and textures. It has always been a tree; its appearance can only vary in shades of wood species. However, if you choose the “royal” type of product, you can assemble a chic, noble and solid coating. The appearance of the material immediately indicates the social status of the owner, despite the limited patterns and colors.
Has a large selection color range products. They can imitate not only parquet, but also granite, tile, and marble. In respect of design solutions and variety, laminate outperforms parquet. It is possible to order laminate flooring with a specific pattern for your interior.
The difference between parquet mainly lies in its installation and subsequent maintenance. Laying the product is somewhat more complicated than laminate. However, if we're talking about about a piece strip, then there should be no problems.
During the operation of parquet, periodic scraping and polishing of the coating is necessary. This allows you to update the floor and give it a “fresh” look. The treated surface is covered with varnish or stain. This procedure can be done up to four times during its entire service life.
Lamination coating easy to install. It is accompanied special devices– locks – they close when fastened. Anyone can assemble laminate flooring.
However, the product requires a substrate, since it makes noise when loaded, which cannot be said about parquet. No material required special care, just wipe it with a damp cloth. However, if the board is damaged, it is necessary to replace it and open up the entire floor. You can't sand the planks and you can't remove surface damage.
The service life is significantly longer and averages 30 years. Depending on care, loads and type of board, the indicator can reach 80 years. Such a significant service life is achieved thanks to the material and method of manufacturing the product.
Lamination coating will last about 7 years. This figure is average, since the parameter depends on the class of the product and its purpose. Maximum service life of the material with high degree wear resistance can reach 20-25 years. Everything will depend on the loads and the degree of humidity of the premises.
The operational parameters boast their heat and sound insulation qualities. There is no need to lay an additional substrate under the coating.
The parquet floor is warm and comfortable. However, it is afraid of moisture and mechanical damage. The board is easily scratched by moving objects or walking on it in heels. However, all these small scratches can be easily removed during the next sanding.
Different from parquet high stability to mechanical loads. The coating is not scratched or damaged, even if you put out a cigarette on it. The material is also afraid large quantities water. When washing, it is not recommended to wet the surface too much; use a damp cloth.
The product is divided into wear resistance classes - 31, 32, 33, 34. The latter lasts a long time and does not undergo any changes, does not fade, does not scratch or swell when exposed to moist air.
Price policy
A natural product costs much more than an artificial one. The minimum price for a parquet board will be 800 rubles. The cost of laminate starts from 100 rubles. The pricing policy for materials is different and very striking. However modern technologies offer high-tech laminating products at a cost almost identical to parquet boards.
A comparative analysis of products will help you decide on the choice of flooring. The owner decides what to lay on the floor based on the characteristics, purpose and pricing policy of the material.
If preference is given natural products, then, of course, the choice will fall on the parquet. If preference is given to design and unusual color solutions- on laminate. When purchasing this or that product, the consumer will already know the advantages of both types of coatings and how one differs from the other.
Buyers who decide to carry out floor repairs come to construction stores, trade and exhibition halls or visiting web resources dedicated to building materials, they do not notice the difference between parquet boards and laminate, visually the materials are similar, so what is the difference between parquet boards and laminate, and most importantly which of these materials is better.
Helpful information! Laminated products have an extensive collection of decors designed for any interior, embodying even the most unusual desires of the buyer and interior designer.
The market for laminated products competes with parquet board manufacturers, who, in turn, are modernizing their production to obtain higher quality and cheaper production of their raw materials.
What is the difference between parquet boards and laminate, and most importantly, which of these materials is better?
This article will show the difference between parquet boards and laminate, and most importantly, after reading the material, the consumer will be able to reasonably choose the material he needs, taking into account all the pros and cons.
Let's get acquainted - laminated coating
Laminate is always multi-layered; most often the main material in the production of laminate is pressed paper or cardboard, less often steel is added. This is one of the main differences between laminate and parquet boards.
The surface of the product is laminated with a special plastic film or furniture foil that protects the decorative layer of the laminate board, which has an appearance and color that imitates the texture of various types of wood, earthenware tiles or other cladding materials.
The covering layer is mainly formed by a strong melamine resin. The quality of the laminate board being laid is determined precisely by the strength of the melamine resin.
Advantages of laminate
- Practicality— high-quality laminate boards are not afraid of chipping from heels or wear from furniture. Laminate can withstand various mechanical loads without loss and is resistant to pressure on it, does not fade, is moisture resistant and has a high degree of non-flammability.
- Versatility- depending on the class of the load to be endured, the degree of wear, special characteristics, laminate is suitable for finishing any premises - from apartments and private houses, to commercial real estate and swimming pools.
- Simplest installation— the method of laying laminate boards is quite simple, due to small sizes and reliable lock connection, the installation of the panels can be done on your own.
- Simple care— during use, laminate flooring does not require special care; after installation during operation, it can be washed with a damp cloth or vacuumed. The main difference between laminate and parquet boards is the installation technology. Unlike parquet boards, laminate does not require final processing, such as scraping, sanding, or applying varnish.
- Strength— laminate is not subject to color changes and fading in the sun over the years like parquet; the average service life of laminate is twenty years.
The hidden layer of the laminate is made of chipboard or fiberboard of special density. Particular strength and the moisture resistance of the hidden layer is acquired through the outer base coating.
The bottom plane of the material, in turn, is characterized by protective properties, and is made from unrefined or resin-saturated paper.
Helpful information! Occasionally, a refined plastic layer is used to achieve protective purposes. Often the edges of the slabs are treated with a water-repellent substance, for the manufacture of which a wax base is used.
The first and indisputable difference between parquet boards and laminate boards is determined by the large difference in the cost of materials. The prices for parquet boards are several times higher than the cost of laminate boards. Only prices for predominantly elite types of “Premium” class laminate can be similar to prices for budget types parquet board.
Disadvantages of laminate
- Laminate flooring is cooler. The reason is the materials used in the manufacture of laminate and its multi-layer coating; in addition, wood is a more effective insulation material. Let us take note of this significant difference between parquet boards and laminate flooring.
- Laminate flooring is considered quite noisy; to reduce noise, it is recommended to place a sound-absorbing substrate under the laminate before installation.
- The material used in the manufacture of laminate accumulates static electricity during operation, therefore it is necessary to initially purchase laminate boards with a special coating, or use products with an antistatic effect during operation.
- The second significant difference between laminate and parquet boards. It goes without saying that laminate flooring cannot be restored. When carrying out repairs, individual sheets or the entire structure are replaced.
- Laminate is a new, unnatural coating that only imitates natural wood.
In connection with the above, supporters natural materials in the design of premises, it will not be difficult to choose between parquet boards and laminate.
Parquet boards - almost like laminate
Let's look at the main differences between laminate and parquet boards. The parquet board consists of a material that has a three-layer structure and is made from natural wood.
Helpful information! The outer layer, the so-called valuable one, is about 3-4 mm from the parquet board. During the manufacturing process, hard wood is used. The middle layer of the parquet board is made of spruce and pine.
The structure of the parquet board is completed by a stabilizing bottom 1-2 mm stabilizing padding made of plywood made from spruce or pine. The lines of its fibers are identical to the facing top layer.
Ultimately, a sandwich-shaped structure is formed. This structure of parquet boards guarantees maximum resistance to humidity fluctuations and temperature changes.
So in this ratio, parquet boards and laminate have similar parameters. The parquet covering laid on the floor conveys in all its beauty the texture of solid wood, and also provides the opportunity to sand and scrape the parquet.
In addition, such products are much stronger than their natural counterparts.
Advantages of parquet boards
- Products made from natural hardwood species are environmentally friendly, soft to the touch, do not make noise when walking, and are a natural insulator.
- The texture of natural wood creates a cozy indoor climate and creates an ideal environment.
- Regarding the issue of restoration and answering the general question of the article, it is necessary to indicate - natural materials very easy to restore, able to withstand four grinding actions and four surface varnish coatings
- To install parquet, you need to make the base perfectly level; this is perhaps the most difficult part of the installation; the installation itself is simple and does not take much time. Parquet floors and laminate floors are absolutely identical in terms of installation.
In operation, parquet flooring is just as unpretentious as laminate flooring. It is recommended to wash the steamed floor with a damp cloth or vacuum it. Natural wood materials do not accumulate static electricity.
Helpful information! The manual included with the parquet flooring kit provides a guarantee for a service life of 25 years if the instructions for installation, use and care are followed.
Disadvantages of parquet flooring
Continuing to answer the main question of the article: which is better - parquet boards or laminate, we will dwell in more detail on the main shortcomings of wooden products.
- The operating conditions must be observed - the same temperature, constant humidity, since the parquet board is subject to deformation when exposed to water and chemicals.
- It is necessary to constantly care for natural wood using special products.
- Since wood is quite soft material, the parquet floor is subject to deformation from the weight of the furniture, and also scratches form on the varnish coating of the products.
Draw your attention to! Get acquainted with the secrets of installation and rules of use parquet flooring You can watch the video instructions.
General features of materials
Let's list the differences between parquet boards and laminate, and summarize the main features that unite them:
- Lightweight and quick method styling;
- Great look of natural materials;
- High ergonomics and durability.
Coatings are mainly assembled, as they say, using the floating method:
- During installation, the products are not glued, but placed on a soft substrate.
- During the installation process in both cases, the boards are connected using locking fastenings.
It should be noted that parquet boards can be installed just as well using a rigid method, during which the elements are glued to the base.
Draw your attention to! The coupling device between parquet boards and laminate panels allows, if necessary, the dismantling of floor coverings and the replacement of damaged elements.
More information about the cost of materials
The price of laminate slabs is determined by certain factors:
- Product quality;
- Name and prestige of the manufacturer;
- Rated load class.
Modern coatings from 23 to 31 classes are cheaper than coatings from 32 to 33 classes. The latter are designed for commercial premises, such as offices, retail spaces and other premises where considerable loads on the floor surface are expected.
It is important to note, that today laminate flooring is produced for parquet boards.
A distinctive feature of the material is that it imitates the texture of an expensive coating made from expensive wood species. The wood species used in the production of the top layer of parquet boards affects the price finished product on equal terms with quality. The most valuable varieties woods are cherry, oak, beech, walnut.
The presence of sapwood or knots in the texture of the product makes the product cheaper, and on the contrary, boards with a satin and polished surface are sold at a higher price.
draw your attention to! Large single-strip boards significantly increase the initial cost of covering, therefore the most popular material- three-strip board.
When purchasing building materials for renovation, such as flooring and doors, try to combine and purchase them at the same time. It is recommended that the style, texture or color match.
It is advisable to evaluate the entire system as a whole; sometimes even options that at first glance seem incompatible, together convey a feeling of perfect harmony and luxurious style.
And on the contrary, products that are identical in all respects may completely differ from each other in design.
Conclusion
After reading the material in this article, you have the opportunity to finally determine exactly what is better - laminate or parquet board, taking into account character traits each of the materials.