About Laminate Flooring

Do you have a bustling, on-the-go house full of kids and pets and better things to do each day than worry about your flooring? With laminate floors, there's no need to worry about wear and tear. This budget-friendly option couples resilient construction with beautifully realistic looks that compliment every design aesthetic. Today's technology even allows for waterproof laminate so you can have one continuous floor throughout all rooms of your home.

Laminate Flooring Appearance

Today's laminates can be so realistic that you might ask yourself, “Is that laminate, or hardwood?” Widely acknowledged as a more affordable alternative to wood flooring, laminate floors are a beautiful, long-lasting flooring option that can be used in almost any room of your home. Laminate floors have a four-layer construction that provides added strength and durability to your floor. In addition, laminate flooring comes in various patterns and textures, including natural woods, tiles, and stones, to complement any decor.

What are the benefits of laminate flooring?

Durability

Laminate floors are extremely durable considering how little maintenance they require. Laminate can withstand heavy traffic with minimal damage, is UV resistant, and can also be water resistant. This type of flooring is also less prone to scratches and discoloration than hardwood floors. Its durability makes it an excellent choice for high traffic areas, as well as homes with children and pets.

Versatility

Laminate is an extremely versatile product that can be installed on all grade levels — basement, main level and secondary levels.  Because it's durable and easy to clean, it's perfect for high traffic areas such as kitchens, bathrooms, and laundry rooms.

Affordable

Not only is laminate flooring less expensive than other hard surface floors, but when durability and longevity are taken into account, it also becomes a cost-effective option.

Realistic Visuals

A laminate surface is actually an image that is printed from film onto a thin decorative layer, which is then treated with a wear layer. The film's high resolution allows for an extremely authentic appearance. There is a variety of patterns and textures available, ranging from wood grain and tile to stone patterns.

Frequently Asked Questions About Laminate Flooring

What is the best laminate flooring?

The best laminate is the one that best meets your needs. Want a beautiful, durable floor that withstands accidents and messes with ease? Consider waterproof options. If you're searching for the most durable laminate, ask for the product's abrasion class (AC) rating. On a scale of 1 to 6, AC3 is optimal for heavy residential use.

What is better: laminate or vinyl flooring?

The vinyl flooring vs. laminate debate is common, but in truth, they're both winners. For flooring that can work in a moisture-prone space, go with vinyl and its waterproof core. If not, laminate floors may be a good choice since they’re easier on your wallet.

How long do laminate floors last?

When laminate flooring is installed properly and maintained according to the manufacturer's instructions, it can generally last several years. 

Is hardwood better than laminate?

Not necessarily. Many might say that solid hardwood flooring is better because it will last a lifetime and give you a higher home value. But, laminate floors do a great job of delivering a hardwood look at a fraction of the cost and offer unbeatable durability and water resistance.

How much does laminate flooring cost?

The cost of laminate flooring really depends on the type and quality you choose, as well as the size of your space. In general, laminate floors can run about half the cost of genuine hardwood. Factors that influence laminate cost include: 

• Type of top coat
• Thickness
• Quality

What is the difference between vinyl and laminate flooring?

If you're searching for a durable, kid- and pet-friendly floor, you might be stuck between vinyl and laminate. Though vinyl and laminate floors look and feel similar, their construction is what sets them apart. Vinyl contains a manufactured waterproof core while laminate flooring consists of a wood-based core that's easily damaged if water penetrates it.

Is Laminate Waterproof?

While laminate flooring is considered water resistant, it is not completely waterproof. Although laminate is more resistant to liquid spills than hardwood, fluid that penetrates below the surface can cause serious damage such as mold and warping. If moisture has caused damage to your laminate flooring, it will need to be replaced. Check the product specifications and your laminate flooring warranty to determine the amount of time liquid can sit on the surface of the floor before it damages the product.

Contact Your Local Carpet One Store

Ready to experience the texture & quality of laminate in person? Explore diverse flooring options and engage with our experts for personalized assistance. Get in touch with a Carpet One store near you today!

Browse our laminate portfolio for more design inspiration, or click on one of our manufacturers below to learn more about the laminate lines we offer.