How to Buy Laminate Flooring

Your Guide to buying the best Laminate Flooring

Overview

A laminate flooring buying guide can help you make the best choice when it comes to selecting flooring for your home. Laminate flooring is an affordable, durable, and visually appealing choice for many homeowners. It's available in a variety of colors and styles, making it easy to match with your existing decor. This buying guide provides information on the different types of laminate flooring, how to choose the right type for your needs, and tips for maintaining your laminate floor. With this information, you can be sure to make the best decision when it comes to selecting laminate flooring for your home.

Key features

  1. Durability: Look for laminate flooring that is certified for residential or commercial use, as these ratings indicate how resistant it is to wear and tear.
  2. Installation Method: Laminate flooring can come pre-attached to a backing (glue-down) or it can be a floating floor (click-lock). Consider the type of floor installation you require.
  3. Moisture Resistance: Look for laminate flooring that is moisture-resistant, as this will help to prevent warping or swelling in high-humidity areas.
  4. Locking System: When installing a floating floor, make sure the locking system is secure and that it can handle heavy foot traffic.
  5. Underlayment: Depending on the specific type of flooring you have chosen, you may need to purchase underlayment to reduce noise levels and provide a smooth, level surface.
  6. Style: Laminate flooring comes in a variety of colors, styles, and textures, so there is sure to be something to suit your taste.

See the most popular Laminate Flooring on Amazon

Important considerations

Pros

  • Durable: Laminate flooring is extremely durable, and will provide years of use in your home or office.
  • Cost effective: Laminate flooring is an inexpensive alternative to hardwood flooring, without sacrificing quality or style.
  • Easy to install: Laminate flooring can be installed quickly and easily, typically without the use of professional installers.
  • Low maintenance: Laminate flooring requires minimal maintenance, and is easy to clean and keep looking its best.
  • Versatile: Laminate flooring can be used in a variety of spaces, from kitchens and bathrooms to living rooms and offices.
  • Resistant to stains: Laminate flooring is stain-resistant, making it a great option if you have pets or children.

Cons

  • Durability: Laminate flooring may not be as durable as other flooring options such as wood, tile, or vinyl. It is prone to scratching and can be damaged by water or excessive moisture.
  • Installation: Laminate flooring requires a flat, level subfloor and can be difficult to install, depending on the type chosen. Professional installation can be expensive.
  • Appearance: Laminate flooring can look less natural than other flooring options and may not look as high quality due to the printed pattern and texture.
  • Maintenance: Laminate flooring can be difficult to clean and may require special maintenance products in order to keep the floor looking its best.
  • Cost: Laminate flooring can be more expensive than other types of flooring, depending on the quality of the product.

Best alternatives

  1. Vinyl Flooring - A versatile and affordable flooring option that can mimic the look of laminate floors for a fraction of the cost.
  2. Hardwood Flooring - A durable and timeless flooring option that can last for decades with proper care.
  3. Tile Flooring - A durable and stylish flooring option that is available in a variety of shapes, sizes, and materials.
  4. Cork Flooring - A eco-friendly flooring option that is comfortable underfoot and offers sound and temperature insulation.
  5. Linoleum Flooring - An economical and easy to maintain flooring option that is available in a variety of colors and patterns.

Related tools, supplies, and accessories

  • Laminate Underlayment - A type of cushioning material that is installed between the subfloor and the laminate flooring to reduce sound and provide added insulation.
  • Vapor Barrier Rolls - A special type of polyethylene plastic sheeting used to protect laminate flooring from moisture accumulation underneath.
  • Laminate Flooring Adhesive - A type of glue specifically designed for use with laminate flooring, used to adhere the planks to the subfloor.
  • Laminate Flooring Cutter - A specialized tool used to cut laminate flooring planks for installation purposes.
  • Laminate Flooring Transition Strips - Metal or wood strips used to join laminate flooring to other flooring types or to cover the edges of the laminate flooring.
  • Laminate Flooring Spacers - Special tools used to create a gap between the laminate planks and the wall during installation.

Common questions

  1. What are the benefits of laminate flooring?
    • Laminate flooring is a cost-effective alternative to hardwood floors, making it a great choice for budget conscious shoppers. It is also highly durable, resisting scratches and dents, as well as fading from UV light. It is also easy to install and maintain, with no sanding or refinishing necessary.
  2. What type of installation is required for laminate flooring?
    • Laminate flooring can be installed as a floating floor, meaning it is not attached to the subfloor. It is also possible to glue the planks in place, but this is not recommended for high-traffic areas due to potential damage to the glue.
  3. What kind of maintenance does laminate flooring require?
    • Laminate flooring is low-maintenance and easy to clean. To keep it looking its best, it is important to vacuum and/or sweep regularly, as well as use a damp mop when needed. It is also important to avoid using excessive water, as this can damage the flooring.
  4. How long does laminate flooring last?
    • Laminate flooring is generally designed to last more than 10 years, although the exact lifespan will vary depending on the quality of the product and the conditions it is exposed to. With proper care and maintenance, it can last even longer.
  5. Can laminate flooring be refinished?
    • No, laminate flooring cannot be refinished like hardwood floors. It is not possible to sand or refinish the surface, as this would damage the planks.

Trivia

An interesting fact about laminate flooring is that it can be installed directly over your existing floor, saving you time and hassle. This makes it ideal for DIY homeowners who don't want the hassle of ripping out old flooring. It is also a cost-effective way to update the floor in any room. Source

Disclaimer: This buying guide was not created by humans, and it is possible that some of it's content is inaccurate or incomplete. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this buying guide. Additionally, the images on this page were generated by AI and may not accurately represent the product that is being discussed. We have tried to convey useful information, but it is our subjective opinion and should not be taken as complete or factual.