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What to know when buying laminate flooring
A kitchen with a table and chairs in it.

When buying laminate flooring, there are several important factors to consider to ensure you make the best choice for your space. Here's a comprehensive guide:


1. Quality and Durability

AC Rating: This is a standard measure of laminate flooring's durability. It ranges from AC1 to AC5:

AC1: Suitable for moderate residential use (e.g., bedrooms).

AC2: Suitable for general residential use (e.g., living rooms).

AC3: Suitable for heavy residential use or moderate commercial use (e.g., office spaces).

AC4: Suitable for general commercial use (e.g., small shops).

AC5: Suitable for heavy commercial use (e.g., department stores).


2. Thickness

Thicker laminate flooring (12mm or 15mm) tends to be more durable and provides better sound insulation and stability compared to thinner options (7mm or 8mm).


3. Style and Appearance

Color and Finish: Choose a color and finish that complements your interior decor. Laminate flooring comes in various styles, including wood, stone, and tile looks.

Texture: Options include smooth, embossed, hand-scraped, and distressed textures to mimic the look and feel of real wood.


4. Installation Type

Click-Lock (Floating Floor): Easy to install and can be done as a DIY project. The planks snap together without the need for glue or nails.

Glue-Down: Provides a more permanent installation but is more labor-intensive and often requires professional installation.


5. Underlayment

Integrated Underlayment: Some laminate flooring comes with built-in underlayment, which provides sound dampening and cushioning.

Separate Underlayment: May need to be purchased separately. It is essential for moisture protection and sound absorption.


6. Water Resistance

Water-Resistant Laminate: Suitable for areas with occasional spills (e.g., kitchens, bathrooms).

Waterproof Laminate: Ideal for high-moisture areas but typically more expensive.

7. Environmental Impact

Certifications: Look for products with certifications such as FloorScore, GreenGuard, or FSC, indicating they meet environmental and health standards.

Recycled Content: Some laminate flooring options include recycled materials.


8. Maintenance

Laminate flooring is generally easy to maintain. Ensure you follow the manufacturer's guidelines for cleaning and care to prolong its life.


9. Warranty

Check the warranty offered by the manufacturer. A longer warranty often indicates higher quality.


10. Cost

Consider your budget, but remember that higher-priced laminate flooring often offers better durability, appearance, and warranties.


11. Compatibility with Subfloor

Ensure the laminate flooring is compatible with your subfloor type (concrete, plywood, etc.).


12. Expansion Gaps

Laminate flooring expands and contracts with changes in temperature and humidity. Leave appropriate expansion gaps around the perimeter during installation.

By considering these factors, you can choose the best laminate flooring that meets your needs, preferences, and budget.

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