How Laminate Flooring Competes with Engineered Boards in 2025
Picking new floors isn’t always as simple as it sounds. With so many options out there — especially now — it’s easy to get caught between style, durability, and what your wallet can handle. In 2025, two materials have been getting a lot of attention: laminate flooring and engineered boards. Both bring a lot to the table, but which one is the better fit for your home?
Let’s walk through it.
- First Impressions: Look and Feel
There’s something about real wood that’s hard to beat, and engineered boards hold onto that charm. With a real hardwood layer on top, they give you that natural texture underfoot that just feels, well, authentic.
That said, don’t count laminate flooring. It’s come a long way. Newer laminates are impressively convincing — some even mimic knots and wood grain so closely you might have to touch it to tell the difference. If you want the timber to look without the timber price, laminate makes a strong case.
- Day-to-Day Durability
Let’s face it — life gets messy. Spills, scratches, kids, pets — the work. Laminate flooring handles rough treatment like a pro. Thanks to a tough top layer, it shrugs off scuffs and is surprisingly moisture resistant.
Engineered boards are sturdier than traditional timber, but they’re still real wood. So, while they hold up well, they can show wear in high-traffic spots or if they’re not cared for properly. If your home’s more hustle than hush, laminate might offer a bit more peace of mind.
- Budget Talk
If you’re looking at the numbers (and who isn’t?), laminate flooring usually costs less than engineered boards. That includes the material and often the installation, too. But engineered boards might win out in the long run — especially if you’re after a premium finish and want to boost the value of your space.
- Installing and Living with It
Both flooring types are relatively DIY-friendly, especially with today’s click-lock systems. Laminate tends to be easier and quicker to lay down, and once it’s in, there’s not much to worry about. Engineered boards, while not difficult, might need a bit more upkeep over time to keep that real wood veneer looking its best.
- Thinking Green
Sustainability is top of mind for a lot of homeowners these days. Engineered boards use less hardwood than traditional timber planks, which helps conserve resources. On the other hand, many laminate flooring brands are now using recycled materials and safer adhesives, making them an eco-friendlier option than they once were.
So… Which One Wins?
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer here. If you’re chasing that luxury, feel and love the idea of real wood beneath your feet, engineered boards are hard to beat. If your home’s more chaotic or you want something practical, budget-friendly, and stylish, laminate flooring might be the better fit.
At Holden Carpets, we’ve helped thousands of Melbourne homeowners find their perfect match — whether it’s engineered boards for timeless elegance or laminate for low-fuss living. Come talk to our team, explore your options, and find the floor that works for your life, not just your Pinterest board.
