The Pros and Cons of Laminate Flooring

Laminate is a popular floor covering that mimics natural materials like stone and wood. Laminate flooring is just as strong and scratch resistant as vinyl and much more resilient than the wood and stone it mimics. Like every floor covering, laminate has its pros and cons. So, let's talk about some things to consider when buying laminate flooring.

Pros: Laminate designs are printed in high definition, allowing it to capture a stone or wood look almost perfectly. Laminate comes in many different plank sizes and often costs less than real wood or tile. It’s resistant to wear and won’t fade from direct sunlight or any kind of artificial light. Due to its durability, most laminate has a warranty of 15 to 30 years. Installation is easy with a locking system that is nail and glue-free. It can be floated over any non-textile sub floor or existing floor, even concrete. Laminate is a breeze to clean, and in general just requires regular sweeping and dry mopping. For a deeper clean, we recommend a cleaning solution like Bona Hard Surface Cleaner that won’t leave a filmy residue.

Cons: Even with its foam underlay, laminate is hard under foot. It also doesn’t insulate a room like carpet or cork flooring would. If damaged, laminate can’t be sanded or refinished like the hardwood it mimics. The damaged planks have to be replaced. Laminate is not as moisture resistant as other floor coverings. Wet spills should be cleaned up immediately so your floor isn’t damaged, unless you purchase a laminate like Mannington's line that's available with SpillShield technology. This product is moisture resistant up to 72 hours.

Think about the specific needs and lifestyle in your home when considering laminate. If the pros outweigh the cons,  laminate might be just right for your home.