Posted by FloorSearch on October 19, 1997 at 20:08:50:
In Reply to: Re: wood floors--solid vs. laminate posted by penny on September 15, 1997 at 13:49:43:
For more information you may want to visit FloorSearch. This web site thoroughly covers your question.
BTW, hi Dave!
-- John
:
: : Hi Penny.
: : Not sure if this will just add to your confusion, but here goes anyway.
: : You'll find some good info to guide your decision on the National Wood Flooring Association(NWFA) site at www.woodfloors.org or via the link on the Wood page at my site.
: : For example, in the FAQ section at the NWFA site:
: : "3. Which should I use solid wood floor or laminate wood floor?
: : A: Each have their specific uses and is dictated by your lifestyle and specific needs. Solid wood flooring can be used on grade and above grade, but not below grade. Solid wood should be in a moisture controlled environment. Solid wood strip or plank is nail down only and requires a wood subfloor. Solid wood parquet can be glued to a variety of subfloor materials. Laminate(wood) can be used on grade, above and below grade. Laminate wood is more dimensionally stable so it can be installed in areas where solid wood is not compatible due to moisture. Laminate strip, plank and parquet are glue down applications over various subfloor materials. Some laminate strip and plank can be
: : nailed down which requires a wood subfloor. Laminate includes floating floors where tongue and grove are glued together, but the floor is not anchored to the subfloor. This is a good choice for going over existing vinyl flooring."
: : As for how many times a laminated wood floor can be re-sanded, the general rule of thumb is 2 to 3 times at most. You might also want to factor in the differences in installation and the effect that will have. So, evaluate the facts and if all else fails, toss a coin!
: : Good luck.
: : -Dave