Wood Floors vs. laminate flooring: what's the difference?

If you love the look of wood flooring but don't have a limitless budget, it's natural to consider other options, such as laminate, that mimic the appearance of wood. However, those printed pictures of wood can present challenges later and not provide long term value that you want for your expenditure. Before you consider plastic laminate flooring as a viable alternative to wood, make sure you know the differences. Whether you choose solid wood flooring, engineered wood flooring, or laminate flooring, it's important to know what you're purchasing, so you can be prepared for its specific installation and maintenance requirements as well as the expectations for its long term