When looking for a new floor for your home, laminate flooring can be a great option to consider. But with so many types of this flooring available in the market, finding the perfect one that suits your home can be daunting. 

In this article, we will be discussing steps in choosing right laminate flooring for your home.

What is a Laminate Floor?

Wood flooring is made from wood that has been cut and finished for use in residential or commercial settings. It is available in different types of wood species, styles, colours, and finishes, which makes it a popular choice among homeowners who value natural and durable materials. 

On the other hand, laminate flooring is made from synthetic materials that mimic the look of real wood flooring. A laminate floor is relatively less expensive than wood and is easier to install, but it is not as durable as wood and cannot be refinished. 

Types of Laminate Flooring

Laminate flooring is made up of several layers, including a protective wear layer, a décor layer, a core layer, and sometimes even a moisture barrier layer. These layers can be made of different materials, such as plastic laminate, wood, or even synthetic material.

Plastic laminate flooring is the most basic type of laminate and is often the cheapest. It is made of completely artificial materials and is not suitable for areas with high traffic or moisture. 

Natural wood laminate is a higher-quality option, offering a more realistic wood appearance and better durability. This also comes in dark and light flooring types and water resistant laminate flooring. 

Another type of laminate flooring is engineered wood. This flooring material is made up of several layers of wood that are laminated together, providing a high level of durability and natural wood appearance.

Things to Consider When You Choose Laminate Flooring

Here are five considerations to keep in mind when choosing right laminate flooring for your home. 

The AC Rating

When choosing between laminate floors, it is essential to look at its AC (Abrasion Criteria) rating. The AC rating measures the durability of the flooring on a scale of 1-5, with 5 being the most durable. Laminate floors with AC-4 and AC-5 ratings are recommended for higher traffic areas, while floors with AC-2 and AC-3 ratings are suitable for moderate foot traffic.

Consider the Room and Foot Traffic

When shopping for laminate floors, you should consider where it will be installed and how much traffic and natural light the area gets. For high traffic areas and busy rooms like the entryway, hallways, or living rooms, thicker laminate flooring is recommended. Thicker flooring not only provides better durability but also offers sound absorption. Additionally, with an underlayer, laminate flooring absorbs sound which can benefit your home and higher traffic areas. 

For medium foot traffic areas such as children’s rooms or a home office, you can opt for a thinner laminate floor that is easier to install and doesn’t require an underlayment. However, it’s important not to choose the cheapest option, as it won’t offer the necessary durability and will need to be replaced sooner.

The Décor Layer and Surface Types

The décor layer is the top layer of the actual hardwood and is the part that people see. This layer can be printed with a variety of species, patterns, and colors. When choosing this, it is important to consider your home’s style and the type of furniture you have. Light wood can work well with lighter colored furniture, while a medium gray or dark floor can create a striking contrast against furniture, such as a mirror finish or a rich interior.

Laminates also come in different types of surfaces such as smooth or textured. While textured provides better traction and is ideal for higher traffic areas, smooth is easier to clean, and is ideal for themed spaces.

Installation and Maintenance

Laminate floors come in many forms, including laminate planks or tiles, which can be installed using a floating floor method. This means that the pieces snap together and do not require any adhesive or nails. It’s important to note that although installing laminate flooring is possible, it is recommended to hire a professional, especially if you are not familiar with the lamination process or have a lot of tricky corners.

Before you (or a professional) install laminate flooring, ensure that the subfloor is level and clean. Seal the gaps between the laminate floor and the wall or baseboards with silicone sealant. After laminate flooring installation, the floor is quite easy to maintain, and regular cleaning with a simple mop, vacuum, and some occasional nail polish remover can keep it looking fresh. 

Material Costs

The cost of laminate varies depending on the quality, thickness, and brand. Keep in mind that pricing is often quoted by square footage. Laminate flooring is an affordable alternative flooring option to more expensive flooring materials, such as hardwood flooring or ceramic tile.