Solid Hardwood, Engineered and Laminate Flooring - Laminate or Hardwood

I am wondering if Laminate floorings such as Pergo and Ikea's product our an acceptable alternative to Hardwood floors.

I don't know much about laminate or what products are out there. But any information someone could tell me would be greatly appreciated.

Thank you

I recommend you pick up the latest (February 2001) copy of Consumer Reports. It covers all the relevant factors (except water resistence).

And you can go to http://www.floorboards.com/ to learn all the technical information about laminates.

"Acceptable" is something only you can decide for yourself.

John:

You won't find much info at floorboards.com on laminates because Jeff Hosking doesn't handle the stuff. It's near 100% hardwood flooring information. But I've found other sites that are very helpful on laminate flooring such as ifloor.com. John Simonson has a helpful article on flooring choices as well at floorsearch.com. The you can also check in with the "rugrats" at fcimag.com on the bulletin board. Those guys give responses on the hour.

Ken, you're right. Jeff doesn't have much on laminates. But he does sell Mannington laminate flooring. But I agree with you that there are a lot better sites to learn about laminate flooring.

The National Hardwood Organization says to accept no substitute for solid hardwoods. There is no substitute for their longevity and appearance. Artificial laminate surfaces are pictures of wood grain patterns adhered to plastic, foil or paper and bonded to composite board. Hardwoood floors can easily last two hundred years or longer with care, yet the imitation wood industry thrives.
patricia
http://www.twelvepole.com