Choosing Internal Floors: Laminate, Hardwood, Engineered Wood
Guide by BAYT

When you’re planning a renovation or building a new home, flooring is one of the most important design choices you’ll make.

It doesn’t just affect how your space looks, it also impacts comfort, warmth, acoustics, and resale value.

At BAYT, we help clients make flooring decisions early in the design process, because the right choice depends on how you live, how much maintenance you’re comfortable with, and the atmosphere you want to create.

Below is an honest breakdown of the three most popular flooring options in Ireland: laminate, engineered wood, and hardwood.

1. Laminate Flooring

Laminate is a cost-effective, man-made flooring designed to replicate the look of real wood. It consists of a high-density fibreboard core, a photographic wood layer, and a durable protective top coat.

Why homeowners choose it:

• Affordable – One of the most budget-friendly flooring options available
• Scratch and stain resistant – Ideal for families with children or pets
• Low maintenance – Easy to clean, no waxing or polishing needed
• Wide range of styles – Available in many wood looks and colours

Things to consider:

• Cannot be refinished; damaged boards must be replaced
• Lacks the warmth and texture of real wood
• Lower-quality products may warp in damp conditions

At BAYT, we often recommend laminate for high-traffic areas or investment properties where durability and cost control are priorities.

2. Engineered Wood Flooring

Engineered wood features a real hardwood top layer bonded to multiple layers of plywood underneath. This construction offers the appearance of solid timber with improved stability.

Why homeowners choose it:

• Authentic wood look and feel underfoot
• More stable than solid hardwood in Ireland’s climate
• Can be sanded and refinished once or twice (depending on thickness)
• Compatible with underfloor heating

Things to consider:

• More expensive than laminate
• Still requires care to avoid excess water and scratches
• Quality varies, so reputable suppliers matter

We often specify engineered wood in open-plan living spaces where warmth and stability are equally important.

3. Hardwood Flooring

Hardwood flooring is made entirely from solid timber such as oak, walnut, or ash. It brings natural character and long-term value to a home.

Why homeowners love it:

• Timeless beauty and natural depth
• Exceptional longevity when properly maintained
• Can be sanded and resealed multiple times
• Adds strong resale appeal

Things to consider:

• Highest cost for materials and installation
• Can dent or scratch without care
• Not ideal for kitchens or bathrooms due to moisture
• Expands and contracts with Irish humidity

We typically recommend hardwood for feature areas such as living rooms or master bedrooms where warmth and character matter most.

Long-Term Value

While laminate wins on upfront savings, engineered and hardwood floors add warmth, acoustic comfort, and long-term value.

They feel more luxurious underfoot and visually elevate your interiors.

Planning flooring early helps avoid later issues with subfloor preparation, thresholds, and heating systems.

The BAYT Approach

At BAYT, our design-and-build model means flooring decisions are made with the full picture in mind.

From design intent and budget to installation and aftercare, we coordinate everything under one roof.

That means one cohesive plan, one point of contact, and a flawless result.

Final Thoughts

Your flooring sets the tone for your entire home.

Laminate offers practicality, engineered wood delivers balance, and hardwood provides timeless luxury.

The best choice depends on your budget, lifestyle, and the story you want your home to tell.

Planning a renovation or extension?

Get in touch with BAYT. Our design-and-build team will help you choose floors that fit your style, your budget, and your life, beautifully and effortlessly.