Laminate flooring was one of the first types of flooring that was positioned as a durable alternative to hardwood. In the past, there certainly was no mistaking laminate for hardwood, but recently, laminate flooring has become more aesthetically appealing with countless looks and textures from which to chose. From wood look, to tile styles, Post Road Carpet One Floor & Home of Acton, MA, is your preferred source for fine laminate flooring.

Because of advancements in manufacturing and digital printing, laminate flooring has improved. In fact, certain styles of laminate are virtually indistinguishable from real wood flooring. If you live in a home with children and pets, modern-day laminate flooring is a suitable hardwood alternative.

Laminate vs Hardwood

How exactly do laminate flooring and hardwood stack up? Let's start with appearance. Laminate flooring comes in planks, and these laminate planks are specially made to look and often feel like real wood planks. These looks are truly authentic, so while laminate might not bring the value that hardwood does, it certainly brings the style.

Laminate flooring, unlike hardwood, features a unique layered construction. The laminate planks are fortified by sturdy support layers, so they will be able to withstand heavy foot traffic and other impacts better than wood planks. In fact, laminate planks are unlikely to chip or crack, and they also won't always buckle when exposed to moisture. This does not mean that laminate is waterproof, but it does mean that laminate is more water resistant than wood. Also, laminate flooring features a durable top layer that resist most scratches and scuffs. Laminate therefore does not need to be finished like hardwood, and it is easier to clean and maintain. An added advantage that laminate has over hardwood is its price. Since it’s not made exclusively from natural materials, laminate flooring is typically less expensive than hardwood.

Is Laminate Flooring Waterproof?

Laminate flooring can be installed below, on, or above ground, and it is suitable for living rooms, family rooms, and even kitchens. It can withstand foot traffic and even a degree of moisture without significant issues. That said, laminate is not always the best flooring option for bathrooms or other areas with heavy moisture since most products aren’t considered waterproof.

Laminate Flooring Installation

Laminate flooring features glue-free installations, as the laminate planks will perfectly attach and lock together. They will float over the subfloor without the need for a messy adhesive. Laminate planks, however, can be glued to the subfloor for a permanent installation. This is recommended for high traffic areas such as commercial settings. No matter which installation method you choose, laminate planks do need to be installed over flat and dry subfloors. Also, while hardwood fares its best in the home, laminate flooring is durable enough for certain commercial settings.

Our Laminate Flooring Selection

Post Road Carpet One Floor & Home in Acton offers a selection of laminate flooring. Our featured laminate brand is Mirror Lake Performance Flooring, which is a Carpet One exclusive. Laminate for Life has an ultra enduring top layer, and it has a gapless installation. Visit our store to learn more or shop our laminate flooring options online. 

Caring for Laminate Flooring One of laminate's biggest advantages is its easy maintenance. It’s easier to care for laminate than hardwood. Let our experts help you learn more about laminate maintenance.   LEARN MORE