What Is Laminate?

Laminate flooring offers an affordable path to hardwood style with solid performance in the right setting. Its structure includes a high-density fiberboard (HDF) core, topped by a printed design layer and protective wear layer. Laminate is best used in dry, stable rooms where humidity and spills are limited—such as living rooms, bedrooms, offices, or dining rooms. Because it uses wood-based core materials, extended exposure to water may cause swelling, warping, or delamination. However, it can be slightly more rigid than vinyl and in some cases deliver stronger resistance to heavy furniture or sharper impacts, depending on core density and wear layer.

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Durability and AC Ratings

Laminate is tested for durability using the Abrasion Class (AC) rating system:

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AC3 – Suitable for residential use in living rooms and bedrooms.
AC4 – Stronger, often used in busy households and light commercial areas.
AC5 – Built for heavy traffic, commercial spaces, or households that need extra durability.


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The higher the AC rating, the better the laminate resists scratches, dents, and everyday wear.

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Luxury Vinyl vs Laminate

While both luxury vinyl (LVP/LVT) and laminate mimic the look of hardwood or stone, their structure and performance diverge significantly. Laminate features a core made of wood-fiber composite topped with a printed design layer and wear layer. Because of its wood-based core, it is water-resistant, not fully waterproof, and may swell or warp if exposed to moisture for long periods. ‍

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Luxury vinyl, on the other hand, is made of layered plastics like PVC, with a fully synthetic core and top wear layer. It is built to be 100 % waterproof, handles moisture-prone areas, and often offers better resilience against spills, humidity, and indirect water damage. In short: for moisture-heavy spaces or active households, luxury vinyl offers superior protection and versatility.

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Laminate often gives a slightly more rigid, dense feel and in some cases may edge out in scratch resistance and realistic wood look, but only when used in the right environment. ‍

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Installation Options

Click-Lock (Floating): Planks or tiles lock together, great for fast installation and easy replacement.

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Glue-Down: More permanent, ideal for high-traffic areas or commercial spaces.

Our team recommends the best method depending on the room and subfloor.

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Maintenance

Maintaining laminate is easy. Regular sweeping or vacuuming keeps dust and debris away, and a light damp mop helps it stay clean. Avoid standing water, since moisture can seep into the seams and cause the boards to swell or warp over time. Use felt pads under furniture to prevent scratches.

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Product Warranties

All laminate products come with manufacturer-backed warranties covering defects and finish durability. Coverage and length vary by  product, but our team can explain details before purchase.