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 immitates. Like every floor covering, laminate has its pros and cons. Below are 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. 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 easily be floated over any non-textile sub floor or existing floor, even concrete. Laminate is easy to clean, and in general just requires regular sweeping and dry mopping. For a deeper clean, a cleaning solution like Bona Hard Surface Cleaner that won’t leave a filmy residue is perfectly safe.

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. If there is a wet spill, it should be cleaned up immediately so your floor isn’t damaged.

Think about the specific needs and lifestyle in your home when looking over the pros and cons of laminate. But all in all, laminate’s pros outweigh the cons and might be just right for your home.