Laminate flooring features and considerations

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During the early 1980's, Pergo introduced laminate flooring. Since that time, many other manufacturers are now producing laminate flooring as it has proved itself to be a realistic wood alternative that's very durable and easy to maintain. Not only is laminate flooring less expensive than its wood counterpart, laminates are great for families with children and pets and come in a wide variety of  wood-like styles and patterns.

Laminate flooring planks are machine made in 6mm to 12mm thicknesses. The planks are topped with an incredibly realistic photographic film that mimics wood and an aluminum oxide finish. Other laminate flooring features today include beveled edges and single-width planks that click together for an easy-to-install floating floor system. Laminate floor manufacturers use two methods to make their products.

– Direct Pressure Laminate (DPL): Made of three layers
– High Pressure Laminate (HPL): Made with a minimum of five layers

Of the two manufacturing methods, HPL (e.g., 12mm) produces a better product because it's more resistent to denting; however, it's considerably more expensive. Unless you plan to place very heavy objects on the laminate floor or expect to live in your house a long time, DPL will probabaly serve your needs very well. Another thing to consider is the type of room and how much foot traffic it gets. Inexpensive laminate flooring typically has wear and tear warranties of 10 – 15 years and is intended for light-use areas of a home. If you install lightweight laminate flooring (e.g., 6mm) in high traffic areas, you can expect it to last three to five years. For kitchens and bathrooms, make sure you purchase laminate floor products that are warranted specifically for these areas. Laminate flooring for kitchens and bathrooms has wax coated joints and is chemically treated for water resistancy. It's always a good idea to purchase extra laminate flooring planks to replace those that get scratched or gouged.

The North American Laminate Flooring Association (NALFA) establishes standards for laminate flooring in the United States and Canada. When a brand of laminate flooring has met NALFA standards, the packaging may show the NALFA seal of approval.

Below are some of the well-known laminate flooring manufacturers who have earned the NALFA seal of approval.

– Columbia Flooring
– Fausfloor
– MANNINGTON
– Mohawk
– Pergo
– Quick Step
– Shaw
– TORLYS 
– Wilsonart Flooring

After installing a laminate floor, familiarize yourself with the manufacturer's instructions for care and maintenance so you don't inadvertently void the warranty. It's a good idea to place rugs at entrances to catch dirt and pads under furniture to prevent scratching. Most laminate floors require daily sweeping or vacuuming and cleaning with a damp terry cloth mop at least twice a month.