Both Laminate and Granite are widely used for flooring by many homeowners. It is pretty difficult to tell generally which one is better than the other. However, if their strengths are individually broken down, one can tell which is better in which category.
For example, granite is better than laminate when it comes to cracking, chipping, scratching, and heat resistance. However, when it comes to slip resistance, cost-effectiveness, and aesthetics, laminate is better than laminate.
What is Laminate Flooring?
Laminate floors are multi-layered synthetic flooring products made from particle boards compressed together and a transparent top wear layer holding into place an image layer fused together with a lamination process.
The four layers are the wear layer, the design layer, the Core layer, and the back layer, and each layer has a distinctive purpose.
The Wear Layer: This is the topmost layer that we walk on. It is clear and is made of aluminum oxide that protects the other layers from fading and scratching. This layer also protects the floor from moisture penetration. The thicker the wear layer, the better the quality and durability of the floor.
The Design Layer: Also known as the Pattern layer, this is the layer that gives laminate floors a realistic hardwood floor feel. It is made from multiple sheets of paper with melanin resin. The design layer can also be added with some texture, adding a degree of authenticity and style.
The Core Layer: Also called the Substrate layer, its job is to add extra protection against indentations and moisture damage provided by the back layer. It is made from an ultra-durable fiberboard with a water-resistant resin.
The Back Layer: It is the bottom layer that protects the floor from moisture and ensures the floor is comfortable to walk on. It is extremely water-resistant.
What is Granite Flooring
Granite is a natural stone formed from cooling molten rock in the ground. It is made up of other minerals like feldspar and quartz, giving it a sparkling effect.
Granite tiles are costly and heavy and therefore need to be installed by professionals. It is rigid, stain-resistant, eco-friendly, and requires no sealing when used in a moisture-proof environment.
Laminate vs. Granite Flooring
Durability:
In terms of durability, Granite floors are more durable than Laminate floors. Unlike Laminate floors, they can withstand water without rotting or moisture attacks. Both are non-porous, but when exposed to too much water, laminate floors might peel.
Cost:
Granite is a natural stone and therefore more expensive than Laminate floors, which are synthetic floors. However, in the long run, granite is cheaper than Laminate because when sealed, it can last a very long time with no or minimum maintenance.
It will cost you about $5-$15 per square foot for granite tiles, while Laminate flooring will cost you $2-$6 per square foot.
Ease of Installation:
Laminate floors are faster and easy to install. Unlike granite flooring, which is very heavy and requires professionalism to cut and place the tiles, you don’t need professional assistance for installation.
In some cases, laminate flooring can be purchased in pre-cut lengths, which makes it very DIY-friendly.
Comfortability and adaptability:
For both floors, laminate floors are the most comfortable to walk on. Granite is so hard and very uncomfortable to walk on, especially bare-footed.
Again, in cold weather, granite becomes really cold underfoot. Laminate is made from wood bi-products, making it a poor heat conductor; therefore, if the subfloor is cold, it will not transfer to the top of the tile.
Laminate Flooring Pros and Cons
| Pros of Laminate Flooring | Cons of Laminate flooring |
| Not Expensive compared to granite | It cannot be refinished |
| Not slippery therefore there are minimum or no accidents | Affected by moisture. |
| Easy to install. DIY friendly. | Not as durable as granite |
| It is pet friendly. The top layer is extremely resilient. | |
| Maintenance is simple and requires no professional. | |
| It is Highly aesthetic. |
Pros and Cons of Granite Flooring
| It can last a very long time with minimum or no maintenance required. | It is costly |
| It is Heat resistant. Keeps the floor cool during the summer | It is difficult to install |
| Scratch and Stain Resistant | Slippery |
| Moisture resistant. Not affected by water | It is fragile |
| Offers a wide variety of color options | Produces unwanted sound when walking with heels |
| It requires low maintenance | |