Sorry guys, this is a little off topic, but I thought you were probably the right group to ask this to.
I am getting ready to build a new house. We have designed a very large open concept Great room. The kitchen flows into the dinning room and then into the "living" room. It is really all one big room, no natural breaks for flooring.
With that in mind, we had pretty much decided on hardwood. After visiting two flooring stores tonight they both tried to talk me into laminate. I have installed laminate for my sister and realize that it isnt junk, but it just isnt wood.
Here is what I am told is the problem with wood. I have three kids and a large dog as well as the fact that I want to use it in the kitchen. I am told that the dog and the kids will destroy it. Thier really isnt much price difference between laminate and 3/4" hardwood anymore so price isnt the main factor, it is durability, I always thought that hardwood was very durable.
I really appreciate your thoughts. Obviously as a fellow woodworker, I love the look of wood in my house.