Last Updated on June 12, 2022 by Kimberly Crawford
When it comes to flooring, laminate is a popular choice. It can look like hardwood or stone, and it’s affordable. But not all brands are created equal. Some are more reliable than others. In this blog post, we will discuss the most and least reliable laminate flooring brands on the market today. We’ll also give you some tips on how to choose a brand that is right for your needs.
Related: Comparison Guide To Vinyl vs. Laminate Flooring: Pros and Cons, Costs, Differences, Similarities
How to identify a bad laminate flooring brand.
There are a few key things to look for when trying to identify a bad laminate flooring brand. The first is the quality of the materials used. If the materials are of poor quality, then the flooring will likely be as well.
Another thing to look for is the warranty. A good laminate flooring brand will offer a lengthy warranty that covers both the materials and the labor.
Finally, research the company online to see what others are saying about their products and customer service. If you see a lot of negative reviews, then it’s probably best to steer clear of that particular brand.
Mistakes to avoid when buying a new laminate flooring.
When it comes to laminate flooring, there are a few things you’ll want to avoid if you want your new floors to last. Here are four mistakes to avoid when shopping for laminate flooring:
Purchasing the wrong thickness – Laminate flooring is available in different thicknesses, with 12mm being the thickest and most durable option. If you choose a laminate that’s too thin, it will be more susceptible to dents and scratches.
Not considering the subfloor – It’s important to take into account the type of subfloor you have before selecting your laminate flooring. If you have a concrete subfloor, for example, you’ll need a different type of laminate than if you have a plywood subfloor.
Failing to account for expansion gaps – Expansion gaps are necessary with laminate flooring to allow the boards to expand and contract as temperature and humidity levels change. Without these expansion gaps, your flooring could buckle or warp.
Not acclimating the boards – Acclimating your laminate boards before installation is crucial to preventing them from shrinking or expanding after they’re installed. This process involves letting the boards sit in the room where they’ll be installed for at least 48 hours so that they can adjust to the temperature and humidity levels of the space.
Related: 16+ Different Types Of Flooring With Pictures (Kitchen, Bathroom, Living Room,…)
Laminate flooring brands to avoid.
There are many laminate flooring brands on the market, and not all of them are created equal. While some brands offer high-quality products that can last for years, others are best avoided.
If you’re in the market for laminate flooring, be sure to steer clear of the following brands:
1. Armstrong (Low-End Laminates)
The main reason to avoid Armstrong’s Low-End Laminates is because the quality is very poor. The boards are thin and often warp or buckle, making them difficult to install and giving your floors an unfinished look.
In addition, the finishes on these laminates are not as durable as those on more expensive brands, so they will scratch and stain more easily.
Overall, you are better off spending a little more money on a higher-quality product that will last longer and look better in your home.
2. Home Depot laminate flooring.
Why should avoid Home Depot laminate flooring?
Home Depot laminate flooring is often of a lower quality than other brands, and it can be more difficult to find replacement pieces if something goes wrong. The company also has a reputation for being unresponsive to customer complaints. If you’re considering laminate flooring for your home, it’s best to explore all of your options before settling on a brand.
3. Laminate from Lowe’s.
Why should avoid Laminate flooring from Lowe’s?
Well for starters, many people have had issues with the quality of the laminate. In some cases, the boards have warped or buckled after being installed. This can be a big problem if you’re not able to return the flooring.
Another issue is that Lowe’s doesn’t always have the best selection. If you’re looking for a specific style or color, you may not be able to find it at Lowe’s.
Finally, the price of laminate flooring at Lowe’s can be higher than other stores. This is because Lowe’s is a big box store and they have to charge more to make a profit.
4. Shaw.
Shaw Industries is one of the world’s largest carpet manufacturers with over 50 years of experience in the business. The company is headquartered in Dalton, Georgia and has production facilities all over the United States. Shaw is a subsidiary of Berkshire Hathaway Inc.
The company produces both residential and commercial carpets and sells them under various brand names including Shaw Floors, Anderson Tuftex, Patcraft, and Philadelphia Commercial. In addition to carpets, Shaw also manufactures hardwood flooring, laminate flooring, ceramic tile, and vinyl sheet and plank flooring.
Why should avoid Shaw laminate flooring?
Shaw’s laminate flooring is one of the most popular brands on the market today. However, there are some serious concerns about the safety of this product. Shaw has been accused of using formaldehyde in their products, which can be dangerous to your health.
Formaldehyde is a known carcinogen, and it has been linked to respiratory problems and cancer. Shaw has denied these accusations, but the EPA is investigating the matter. In the meantime, it’s best to avoid this brand of laminate flooring.
There are also concerns about Shaw’s customer service. Some customers have reported that Shaw is very difficult to work with when it comes to returns and refunds. If you have any problems with your flooring, you may be out of luck.
5. TrafficMaster.
TrafficMaster is one of the leading brands of laminate flooring. However, there are a number of reasons why you should avoid their products.
Firstly, the quality of their products is often poor. There have been many reports of their floors warping and bubbling after only a few months of use.
Secondly, their customer service is terrible. If you have any problems with their products, good luck getting them to help you.
Finally, their floors are made in China, which means that they likely don’t meet the same safety and quality standards as floors made in developed countries.
Most reliable laminate flooring brands.
1. AquaGuard ®.
AquaGuard ® laminate is a flooring material that offers the beauty of hardwood with the added durability of laminate. AquaGuard ® is available in a variety of colors and styles to suit any décor, and it’s easy to install and maintain.
AquaGuard ® laminate is also water-resistant, making it ideal for kitchens, bathrooms, and other high-traffic areas. Plus, it’s scratch-resistant and easy to clean, so you can enjoy your floors for years to come.
AquaGuard’s laminate flooring is the perfect choice for anyone looking for an easy to install, durable and affordable flooring option. With its water resistant and scratch resistant properties, it is ideal for any home or office. AquaGuard’s laminate flooring is also available in a variety of colors and designs to match any decor.
2. Armstrong.
Armstrong is an American company that manufactures and markets flooring products. Armstrong’s product line includes both residential and commercial flooring products. The company operates in three segments: Flooring North America, Flooring Rest of World, and Cabinets & Countertops.
Armstrong is a leading manufacturer of hardwood floors. The company offers a wide variety of hardwood flooring products, including solid wood floors, engineered wood floors, and laminate floors. Armstrong also manufactures and markets a line of hardwood flooring accessories, such as moldings, trims, and adhesives.
Why choose Armstrong’s high-end laminate flooring?
There are many reasons to choose Armstrong’s laminate flooring over other brands. For one, Armstrong is a trusted name in the flooring industry. They’ve been around for over 150 years and have a reputation for quality products.
Another reason to choose Armstrong is that their laminate flooring is made with high-quality materials. Their products are designed to resist wear and tear, making them a good choice for high-traffic areas.
Finally, Armstrong’s laminate flooring is available in a variety of styles and colors. Whether you’re looking for a traditional wood-look or something more modern, you’re sure to find an option that suits your taste.
3. Audacity Flooring.
Audacity Flooring is a family owned and operated business. They have been servicing the GTA for over 20 years. They offer a wide range of services including:
-Hardwood Flooring
-Laminate Flooring
-Engineered Flooring
-Vinyl Flooring
-Carpet Flooring
Why choose Audacity Laminate Flooring?
Here are some reasons why:
- It has a high wear rating, meaning it can withstand heavy foot traffic and is ideal for homes with kids and pets.
- It is water resistant, making it perfect for rooms that see a lot of moisture (like kitchens and bathrooms).
- It is easy to install, so you can save on installation costs.
- It comes in a variety of colors and styles, so you can find the perfect look for your home.
What are the benefits of Audacity laminate Flooring?
Some of the benefits of Audacity laminate flooring include its affordability, durability, and easy maintenance. Laminate is also a great choice for those who want the look of hardwood floors without the cost or maintenance.
What are some of the disadvantages of Audacity laminate Flooring?
Some of the disadvantages of Audacity laminate flooring include its inability to be refinished and its susceptibility to water damage.
4. Bruce.
Why choose Bruce laminate flooring?
It’s simple – because it looks great, is durable and easy to take care of.
Here are some more reasons:
-Bruce laminate floors have a realistic wood grain appearance that can add beauty and value to your home.
-They are scratch and dent resistant, making them ideal for high traffic areas.
-They are also easy to clean and maintain. Simply sweeping or vacuuming regularly will keep your Bruce laminate floor looking like new.
5. Dream Home.
Dream Home’s laminate flooring is the perfect choice for anyone looking for a beautiful and durable floor. With a variety of colors and styles to choose from, there is sure to be a perfect match for any home décor.
Dream Home’s laminate floors are also easy to install and maintain, making them the perfect choice for busy families.
6. Faus.
Faus is a company that provides flooring products and services.
Founded in 2006, Faus has grown to become one of the leading providers of flooring products and services in the United States.
Faus offers a wide range of flooring products and services, including carpet, hardwood, laminate, tile, and more.
Why choose Faus’s laminate flooring?
Faus laminate floors are easy to install, durable, and beautiful.
Faus has been in business for over 50 years and their floors are made in Spain.
They offer a variety of colors and styles to choose from.
Their floors have a 25-year warranty, are scratch resistant, and have an AC rating of AC-33.
7. Floorcraft™ Maysville H2O.
It’s a water-resistant laminate that looks and feels like real hardwood, but can take spills and splashes without damage.
That means it’s perfect for rooms like kitchens and bathrooms, where you need a little extra protection against life’s messes. Plus, it comes in a variety of colors and styles to match any décor.
8. Floorcraft™ Maysville Laminate Floors.
Floorcraft™ is excited to offer Maysville Laminate Flooring, a beautiful and durable flooring option perfect for any home. Maysville Laminate Flooring is available in a variety of colors and styles, so you’re sure to find the perfect look for your home.
Maysville Laminate Flooring is easy to install and easy to maintain, making it a great option for busy families. Floorcraft™ Maysville Laminate Floors are also backed by a lifetime warranty, so you can be confident in your purchase.
9. Krono Original®.
Why choose Krono Original®’s laminate flooring?
Krono Original® is a world-leading manufacturer of laminate flooring with over 30 years of experience. Their products are designed to be durable, easy to install, and beautiful.
Krono Original®’s laminate floors are perfect for busy households with kids and pets. They’re also ideal for people who want the look of hardwood floors without the maintenance.
Krono Original®’s products are available in a variety of colors and styles to suit any home. Their laminate floors are also backed by a 25-year warranty, so you can be sure your investment will last.
10. Lumber Liquidators.
Lumber Liquidators is the largest specialty retailer of hardwood flooring in North America, with over 340 stores across 46 states.
The company was founded in 1993 by Tom Sullivan, a former forest products salesman who started the business with $50,000 in credit card debt.
Why choose Lumber Liquidators’ laminate flooring?
Laminate floors have come a long way in recent years, and Lumber Liquidators has been at the forefront of this trend. Their laminate floors are designed to look and feel like real wood, but they’re more durable and easier to maintain.
What’s more, Lumber Liquidators offers a wide variety of colors and styles to choose from, so you’re sure to find the perfect match for your home.
11. Mannington.
Why choose Mannington’s laminate flooring?
It’s easy to see why Mannington is one of the most popular brands of laminate flooring. They offer a variety of styles and colors to choose from, and their floors are known for being durable and easy to care for.
12. Marazzi.
Marazzi is an Italian tile and ceramic company. Founded in 1935, Marazzi is now a leading player in the international ceramic tile market. The company produces a wide range of products, from wall and floor tiles to mosaics and sanitaryware.
Marazzi also has a strong commitment to sustainable development, and all of its products are certified by international environmental organizations.
Why choose Marazzi’s laminate flooring?
It’s simple: quality, style, and value.
Marazzi has been in the business of manufacturing high-quality laminate floors since 1981.
That’s over three decades of experience!
During that time, Marazzi has perfected the art of creating beautiful laminate floors that are also built to last.
13. Mohawk.
Why choose Mohawk’s laminate flooring?
There are many reasons to choose Mohawk laminate flooring for your home. For one, Mohawk offers a variety of colors and styles to choose from, so you can find the perfect match for your home décor. Additionally, Mohawk’s laminate floors are durable and easy to maintain, making them a great choice for busy families.
Finally, Mohawk laminate floors are an affordable option for flooring, so you can get the look you want without breaking the bank.
If you’re looking for a beautiful and durable flooring option for your home, be sure to check out Mohawk’s laminate flooring. You won’t be disappointed!
14. NuWood.
Why choose NuWood’s laminate flooring?
NuWood’s laminate flooring is a great choice for anyone looking for an attractive and durable flooring option. This type of flooring is made from high-quality materials that are designed to withstand heavy foot traffic and everyday wear and tear.
Additionally, NuWood’s laminate floors are easy to install and maintain, making them a great choice for busy families or anyone who wants a low-maintenance flooring option.
15. Pergo.
Pergo is a Swedish-based company that manufactures and sells laminate, engineered wood, and vinyl flooring. The company has been in business since 1927 and has over 30 factories in Europe, North America, Asia, and Australia.
Pergo is best known for their laminate flooring products which are made to look like wood or stone. The company offers a wide variety of colors and styles to choose from.
Pergo’s engineered wood flooring is also a popular choice among homeowners. This type of flooring is made with a thin layer of hardwood on top of a plywood or HDF core.
Why choose Pergo’s laminate flooring?
Because Pergo is the inventor of laminate flooring, and has over 40 years of experience perfecting this product.
No other brand can match Pergo’s quality, durability, and design options.
Plus, Pergo floors are easy to install and maintain.
16. Quick-Step.
Why choose Quick-Step’s laminate flooring?
There are many reasons to choose Quick-Step’s laminate flooring. For starters, it is extremely durable and easy to maintain. It is also very affordable, making it a great option for those on a budget. Additionally, Quick-Step offers a variety of colors and styles to choose from, so you can find the perfect match for your home.
17. Select Surfaces.
Select Surfaces is a company that sells laminate flooring.
The company was founded in 2006 by two entrepreneurs, Jerry and Gary.
Select Surfaces is headquartered in Dallas, Texas.
Why choose Select Surfaces’ laminate flooring?
It’s easy to install, durable, and scratch-resistant. Plus, it comes in a variety of colors and styles to match your décor.
18. Tarkett.
Tarkett is a world leader in flooring solutions. For over 130 years, they have been committed to providing innovative and sustainable flooring products that improve the lives of their customers. Today, they offer a wide range of flooring solutions for every need and budget.
Why choose Tarkett’s laminate flooring?
There are many reasons to choose Tarkett’s laminate flooring for your home. For one, it is very durable and can withstand a lot of wear and tear. It is also easy to clean and maintain, making it a great choice for busy families with kids or pets. Additionally, Tarkett’s laminate floors are available in a variety of colors and styles to match any home decor.
What is the best grade of laminate flooring?
There are three grades of laminate flooring: Good, Better, and Best. The grade is determined by the thickness of the wear layer and by the quality of the boards.
Good grade laminate has a wear layer that is between 12 and 13 mm thick. The boards are also made with a lower density fiberboard.
Better grade laminate has a wear layer that is between 14 and 15 mm thick. The boards are made with a higher density fiberboard, which makes them more stable.
Best grade laminate has a wear layer that is between 16 and 17 mm thick. The boards are made with the highest quality materials, which makes them the most durable.
What does AC3 mean in laminate flooring?
It stands for Abrasion Class Rating. The AC rating system was developed to provide consumers with an easy way to compare the durability of laminate flooring products. The higher the number, the more durable the product.
AC ratings range from AC0-AC33, with AC0 being the lowest and AC33 being the highest.
How can you tell good quality laminate flooring?
There are a few things that you can look for when trying to determine the quality of laminate flooring.
One is the thickness of the plank. Generally, the thicker the plank, the better the quality.
Another thing to look at is the warranty. The longer the warranty, the higher the quality is likely to be.
Finally, take a look at the reviews. If a laminate flooring has good reviews, it is likely to be of good quality.
By looking for these three things, you can get an idea of how good the quality of laminate flooring is.
Conclusion
So, what’s the bottom line? When it comes to laminate flooring brands, there are a few that stand out above the rest. If you’re looking for a reliable brand that will give you years of trouble-free service, then Armstrong, Pergo, and Shaw are all good choices. On the other hand, if you’re looking for a brand that is more likely to give you problems, then Shaw and TrafficMaster are two brands you should avoid.