Choosing between Harmonics vs Pergo deck materials can be a difficult choice for homeowners. Both have their benefits and drawbacks, so it is important to weigh out the pros and cons of each before making your final decision. We will compare these two materials in detail below, so you can make an informed purchase or hire contractor next time you need decking installed at your home.
What is Harmonics?
Harmonics is a type of composite material that is made up of two different pieces. The first layer consists of an HDPE (high-density polyethylene) sheet, which provides durability and stability to the decking surface. A wear mat lies on top for protection from dirt and abrasion, with a second piece placed beneath it. The second layer is a foam that provides insulation and soundproofing qualities.
The surface of Harmonics can be sanded, stained, or painted to match the style of your home’s exterior without sacrificing its durability. You should note, however, that this process may increase the cost by adding an additional material for installers to work with.
What is Pergo?
Pergo, also known as plastic laminate flooring, is made of a thin layer of wood veneer that has been glued to the top and bottom. The edges are then trimmed with an overlaying trim piece or molding for added protection. However, this material may be susceptible to water damage due to its limited durability and the fact that it is glued to the bottom of a frame.
Overall, Harmonics may be better at resisting water damage due to its HDPE surface and thicker foam padding on top, but Pergo flooring may cost less upfront for homeowners who are on a budget or have already invested in laminate floors elsewhere in their home
Both Harmonics and Pergo have their own benefits in terms of appearances – depending on what you’re looking for. For example, Pergo is known to come in many different styles and designs from natural wood like oak or maple to more modern-looking black with light grey edging. Harmonics may not be as varied because it comes only in a few colors: white, tan (or ivory), brownstone and grayish blue.
Harmonics vs. Pergo: Cost Comparison
Pergo decking prices vary depending on the color and thickness of the material, but generally cost less than Harmonics. However, Pergo is more likely to warp or curl over time due to its lightweight frame that can’t handle constant foot traffic
Harmonics is made of two layers – an HDPE sheet provides durability and stability while a foam underneath offers insulation and soundproofing qualities. As a result, the cost will increase slightly because installers would have to work with an additional material.
Pergo decking is made of a thin layer of wood glued to the top and bottom. The edges are then trimmed with an overlaying trim piece or molding for protection, but this might make it susceptible to water damage because it’s not as durable.
Durability issues may lead to higher prices for upkeep and repair down the road. As such, the price of Harmonics is arguably the more expensive option because it has two layers. This could mean that installers have to work with an additional material, and this may increase labor time; however, there are benefits such as its ability to resist water damage better due to its HDPE surface and thicker foam base.
If you’re looking for a less expensive option with fewer features, then Pergo may be better suited for your needs; but if you want something more durable and aesthetically-pleasing, then Harmonics may be the better choice.
Harmonics vs Pergo: Durability Comparison
Harmonics is a type of composite that is made up of two different pieces. The first layer consists of an HDPE (high-density polyethylene) sheet, which provides durability and stability to the decking surface. A wear mat lies on top for protection from dirt and abrasion, with a second piece placed beneath it. The second layer is a foam that provides insulation and soundproofing qualities.
Pergo, also known as plastic laminate flooring, is made of a thin layer of wood veneer that has been glued to the top and bottom. The edges are then trimmed with an overlaying trim piece or molding for added protection. However, this material may be susceptible to water damage due to its limited durability and the fact that it is glued to the bottom of a frame.
The material that makes up Pergo is more likely to warp and curl as time goes on because it does not have a wear mat or additional protection (such as HDPE). Harmonics installs with a two-layer construct, which means it has a wear mat and foam, so you’ll experience less warping or curling.
In this case, we argue that Harmonics is the more durable option as it is built to protect against damage. The durability issues can be looked at from multiple perspectives, like thickness and water damage potential, but overall Harmonics decking materials are the more durable choice.
Harmonics vs Pergo: Installation
Installation of Harmonics and Pergo is a bit different. With the latter, installers are not required to use an adhesive for installation as it already has one on top; however, they do have to be careful about how tight they trim the edges because this can affect water absorption.
For Harmonics installation, builders should carefully measure their space, then order the correct size and number of pieces. Installing Harmonics is a two-step process that includes attaching the HDPE to the subfloor and then installing your flooring. This can be done by hand, but it’s often easier for installers to use tools such as hammers or air staplers (similar to an electric staple gun).
Pergo installation is not as complicated as it only requires installing the material over a subfloor. This can be done by hand, but again an air stapler or hammer may make installation go more quickly and easily.
With all of this information in mind, it is clear that installation is easier with Pergo because builders don’t have to worry about using adhesive or cutting the material. Harmonics installation is not impossible, just be sure to budget enough time for following steps exactly as outlined.
Pergo vs. Harmonics: Final Showdown
Both options offer their own unique benefits and drawbacks. While Pergo is a cheaper option, it’s less durable and won’t stand the test of time. Pergo also offers easier installation, but you will need to ask yourself if the maintenance demands are something you will be able to keep up with.
Harmonics has two layers but could be more expensive due to the extra materials. If you’re looking for something that will last longer without breaking or curling, then Harmonics is the best option. For a cheaper solution with fewer features, Pergo may be more appealing.
The conclusion? The choice really depends on what’s more important for you: cost or durability. Pergo may not last as long because it only has one layer and is more susceptible to water damage; however, this means that installation cost may also be less expensive. On the other hand, Harmonics is a better choice if you’re looking for something that will last because of its two layers with an extra wear mat and foam.
