Hardwood vs. Laminate: Which is Best for the San Gabriel Valley Climate?
When choosing new flooring for your home in the San Gabriel Valley, the “Golden State” sunshine is a double-edged sword. While we love the light, the specific climate of areas like Covina and Glendora presents unique challenges for flooring materials. The primary culprit? Dimensional stability.
The Hardwood Factor
Traditional solid hardwood is a “living” material. It breathes, expands, and contracts based on the moisture in the air. In Southern California, we deal with extreme dry spells during Santa Ana winds followed by sudden humidity spikes. This can cause solid wood to “cup” (edges higher than the center) or “gap” (unsightly spaces between planks).
To combat this, we recommend Engineered Hardwood from brands like Mannington. Engineered wood features a cross-ply construction that acts as a structural anchor, preventing the wood from moving even when the humidity fluctuates. It gives you that prestigious, authentic oak or hickory look with the structural integrity needed for the California foothills.
The Laminate Revolution
If you want a “set it and forget it” floor, modern high-end laminate is a powerhouse. Unlike the thin, plastic-looking floors of the 90s, today’s laminate from Mohawk uses high-definition imaging and deep embossing to mimic real wood grain perfectly.
Because laminate is made from high-density fiberboard (HDF), it is virtually immune to the drying effects of SoCal heat. It won’t shrink or crack when the temperature climbs to 100°F in July. Furthermore, laminate’s top wear layer is incredibly resistant to the UV fading that often happens in sun-drenched California “great rooms.”
The Verdict: If you value resale value and natural authenticity, go with engineered hardwood. If you have a high-traffic home and want maximum stability against the elements, laminate is your winner.
Ready to find the perfect match for your home’s microclimate? Visit the Nemeth Family Interiors showroom in Covina today to see our climate-stable flooring options in person!