Last Updated on June 12, 2022 by Kimberly Crawford
There are many different types of laminate flooring on the market these days. So, which one is the best for you? That can be a difficult question to answer, since everyone’s needs are different. In this blog post, we will discuss the pros and cons of each type of laminate flooring so that you can make an informed decision about what is right for your home.
Related: 16+ Different Types Of Flooring With Pictures (Kitchen, Bathroom, Living Room,…)
What is laminate flooring?
Laminate flooring is a type of flooring that consists of multiple layers of material fused together. The top layer is a clear protective finish, the middle layer is a decorative print, and the bottom layer is a stabilizing backing.
Types of Laminate Flooring by Installation.
1. Glued laminate flooring.
Glued laminate flooring is a type of laminate flooring that is glued to the subfloor with an adhesive. This type of flooring is more durable than floating laminate floors and is ideal for high traffic areas. Glued laminate floors can be installed over any type of subfloor, including concrete, wood, and vinyl.
If you are considering glued laminate flooring for your home, here are a few things to keep in mind:
-The adhesive used to glue the flooring to the subfloor should be of high quality and compatible with the flooring material.
-The subfloor should be clean and free of any debris before installation.
-It is important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for installation and adhesive application.
2. Glue-less laminate flooring.
Glue-less laminate flooring is a new type of laminate flooring that does not require the use of glue or nails for installation. This type of laminate flooring is easy to install and can be done by anyone with basic DIY skills.
Glue-less laminate flooring is also more stable than traditional laminate floors, making it ideal for high traffic areas in your home.
There are many benefits to having glue-less laminate flooring. One of the main benefits is that it is much easier to install than traditional laminate flooring.
Glue-less laminate flooring can also be removed much easier than traditional laminate flooring. This type of flooring is also more resistant to moisture and humidity.
If you are considering laminate flooring for your home, then you should definitely consider glue-less laminate flooring. It is a great option for anyone who wants an easy to install and remove floor. Glue-less laminate flooring is also a great option for anyone who wants a more durable and moisture resistant floor.
3. Pre–glued laminate flooring.
Pre–glued laminate flooring is a type of flooring that comes with an adhesive already applied to the boards. This makes installation much easier and faster than traditional laminate flooring, which requires the use of a separate adhesive.
Pre–glued laminate flooring is available in many different styles and colors, so you can find an option that fits your taste and décor.
Pros and cons of Pre–glued laminate flooring:
The main advantage of pre-glued laminate flooring is that it is easier to install. This is because the adhesive backing eliminates the need for nails or staples. Additionally, pre-glued laminate flooring can be installed over existing floors without having to remove them first.
The main disadvantage of pre-glued laminate flooring is that it is more difficult to repair than traditional laminate flooring. This is because the adhesive backing makes it more difficult to remove and replace individual pieces of laminate flooring. Additionally, pre-glued laminate flooring is more likely to show seams than traditional laminate flooring.
5. Underlayment attached.
Underlayment attached is a term used to describe the process of installing laminate flooring with an attached padding.
This type of installation is often chosen for its simplicity and because it can help to reduce noise. Many people believe that this method is easier to install than other types, but it is important to make sure that the underlayment is properly installed before starting.
Types of Laminate Flooring by Texture.
There are three main types of laminate flooring textures: smooth, textured, and embossed.
1. Distressed Laminate Flooring.
Distressed Laminate Flooring is a beautiful and popular flooring option that can give your home a luxurious look without the high price tag. This type of laminate is created to look like real wood, but it’s more durable and easier to care for.
If you’re considering distressed laminate flooring for your home, here are a few things to keep in mind.
First, distressed laminate is more susceptible to damage than regular laminate. It’s important to be careful when moving furniture or appliances, and to avoid using harsh cleaners or chemicals.
Second, distressed laminate flooring can be tricky to install. If you’re not experienced in installing flooring, it’s best to hire a professional.
Third, once your floor is installed, you’ll need to be extra careful when cleaning it. Avoid using harsh cleaners or chemicals, and be sure to sweep and vacuum regularly.
Fourth, avoid walking on your floor in high heels or other sharp objects. This can damage the surface of the laminate.
2. Embossed in Register.
Embossed in Register is a type of laminate flooring where the design is actually embossed into the plank during manufacturing.
This gives the finished product a very realistic look and feel, making it one of the most popular types of laminate on the market today.
3. Embossed Laminate Flooring.
Embossed Laminate Flooring is a type of flooring that has a raised surface. This type of flooring is often used in areas where there is a lot of foot traffic, such as in commercial settings. Embossed Laminate Flooring is also available in a variety of colors and designs, which makes it an ideal choice for many different types of rooms.
Pros and cons of Embossed Laminate Flooring:
Embossed laminate flooring is a type of flooring that has a raised, textured surface. It is made by bonding multiple layers of material together and then adding an embossed layer on top.
This type of flooring can give your home a unique look and feel, but it also has some drawbacks that you should be aware of before you decide to install it.
Pros:
-Embossed laminate flooring is very durable and resistant to scratches, scuffs, and stains.
-It is also easy to clean and maintain.
-This type of flooring can give your home a unique and stylish look.
Cons:
-Embossed laminate flooring can be difficult to install, and it is also not as comfortable to walk on as other types of flooring.
-It is also more expensive than most other types of flooring.
4. Smooth Laminate Flooring.
Smooth Laminate Flooring is a type of flooring that has a smooth surface. It is made of laminate, which is a material that is composed of multiple layers of material.
Smooth Laminate Flooring is available in a variety of colors and styles. It is easy to install and maintain. Smooth Laminate Flooring is an excellent choice for any room in your home.
Pros and cons of Smooth Laminate Flooring:
If you’re looking for a low-maintenance and durable flooring option, laminate flooring may be the right choice for you. Laminate is a synthetic material that mimics the look of real wood, but it’s more resistant to scratches and staining. Smooth laminate floors have a sleek, finished look that can give your home a modern feel.
However, laminate floors can be slippery, and they may not be as comfortable to walk on as other types of flooring. If you have young children or pets, you’ll need to take extra care to prevent scratches and spills.
Types of Laminate Flooring by Material.
Laminate flooring is available in many different materials. Each material has its own unique properties that make it suitable for different applications. The most common types of laminate flooring are made from wood, plastic, or metal.
1. Plastic laminate flooring.
Plastic laminate flooring is a type of flooring that is made from plastic. It is a popular choice for many homes and businesses because it is durable and easy to care for. Plastic laminate flooring is available in a variety of colors and styles, so you can find the perfect look for your home or business.
If you are considering installing plastic laminate flooring, there are a few things you should know.
First, plastic laminate flooring is not as durable as other types of flooring, so it may need to be replaced more often.
Second, plastic laminate flooring can be slippery when wet, so it is important to choose a style that has a textured surface. Third, plastic laminate flooring is susceptible to scratches and scuffs, so it is important to choose a style that is resistant to these.
2. Metal look laminate flooring.
Metal look laminate flooring is a great option for those who want the look of metal without the high price tag. This type of flooring is also easy to install and maintain, making it a great choice for busy families.
If you’re looking for an affordable way to get the metal look in your home, metal look laminate flooring is a great option.
3. Stone laminate flooring.
Stone laminate flooring is a type of flooring that is made to look like stone. It is a very popular choice for many homeowners because it is durable and easy to care for. Stone laminate flooring is available in a variety of colors and styles, so you can find the perfect match for your home décor.
4. Tile Laminate Flooring.
Tile Laminate Flooring is a great way to get the look of tile for a fraction of the cost. It is also much easier to install than tile and can be done by most do-it-yourselfers.
5. Wood Laminate Flooring.
Wood laminate flooring is a type of flooring that uses thin, layered pieces of wood to create a durable, easy-to-care-for surface. It’s an excellent choice for busy households with kids and pets, as it resists stains and scratches. Plus, it’s easy to install and can be used over most existing floors.
If you’re considering wood laminate flooring for your home, here are a few things to keep in mind:
- The thickness of the laminate boards will affect both durability and installation. Thicker boards are more resistant to wear and tear, but they may be more difficult to install.
- The type of backing on the laminate boards will also affect durability and installation. A foam backing is more forgiving, making it a good choice for do-it-yourselfers. A fiberboard backing is more durable and stable, but it’s also harder to install.
- Laminate flooring comes in a variety of colors and styles, so you can find a look that fits your home. Be sure to consider the amount of traffic in each room when choosing a color and style.
- Wood laminate flooring is an affordable way to get the look of real wood floors without the high price tag. When installed correctly, it can last for years with minimal upkeep.
Types of Laminate Flooring by Pattern.
Laminate flooring comes in many different patterns. Some of the most popular patterns are:
1. Traditional Plank.
Traditional plank is a great way to achieve the classic look of hardwood floors without the hassle or expense. Laminate is easy to install and maintain, and it comes in a variety of colors and styles to suit any home.
There are many reasons to choose traditional plank laminate floors. They are easy to install, easy to clean, and they have a classic look that never goes out of style. Plank laminate floors are also very durable, so you can be sure they will last for years to come.
2. Thin Strip Plank.
Thin strip plank is a new style of laminate flooring that is becoming increasingly popular. It is made up of thin, rectangular strips of wood that are glued together to form a plank.
This type of flooring has a number of advantages over traditional laminate floors. Firstly, it is much easier to install. The planks can be laid in any direction, meaning that you can create a unique pattern. Secondly, it is more durable and resistant to wear and tear. Thirdly, it is easier to clean and maintain.
3. Wide Plank.
When it comes to choosing a new floor, there are many things to consider. But one of the most important factors is the width of the plank.
Most laminate floors come in planks that are about 12 inches wide. But wide plank laminate floors have become increasingly popular in recent years.
Wide plank laminate floors are available in a variety of widths, from about 12 inches all the way up to 18 inches. And they can really make a room look bigger and brighter.
If you’re considering wide plank laminate floors for your home, here are a few things to keep in mind.
One of the most important things to consider when choosing wide plank laminate floors is the width of the room. If you have a small room, you might want to choose a narrower width. But if you have a large room, wider planks can really make it look more spacious.
Another thing to keep in mind is the type of furniture you have. If you have large, heavy pieces of furniture, you might want to choose a thicker plank. But if you have lighter, smaller pieces of furniture, thinner planks can work well.
Finally, consider the overall look you’re going for in your home. If you want a more traditional look, narrower planks might be the way to go. But if you’re going for a more modern look, wider planks can really make a statement.
4. Herringbone or Chevron Pattern.
Herringbone is a classic, timeless pattern that will never go out of style. Chevron is a modern take on the herringbone pattern and is becoming increasingly popular. Both patterns add visual interest to your floor and can be used to create a focal point in your room.
Floor Construction Types.
1. Direct Pressure Laminate (DPL Flooring).
Direct pressure laminate is a type of laminate flooring that is made by fusing together multiple layers of material using high pressure and heat. It is one of the most popular types of laminate flooring on the market today because it is durable, easy to install, and comes in a variety of colors and styles.
DPL flooring can be installed over any type of subfloor, including concrete, wood, and vinyl. It is also one of the few types of laminate flooring that can be installed in wet areas, such as bathrooms and kitchens.
DPL flooring is a great choice for high traffic areas because it is very durable and easy to clean. It is also a good choice for homes with pets because it is scratch resistant.
2. High Pressure Laminate (HPL Flooring).
High-pressure laminate is a type of laminate flooring that is made with several layers of compressed wood. HPL flooring is designed to be extremely durable and resistant to wear, making it an ideal choice for high-traffic areas in your home.
HPL flooring can also be installed over existing floors, which makes it a great option for DIYers. If you’re looking for a durable and easy-to-install flooring option, high pressure laminate might be the right choice for you.
Abrasion Class (AC) Rating of Laminate Flooring.
The Abrasion Class (AC) Rating of a laminate flooring is determined by the European Standard EN 13329. This standard uses a set of nine different tests to rate the wear and tear resistance of decorative laminates.
AC1 Moderate Residential.
This is the minimum abrasion class for residential use. AC1 products are designed to withstand light foot traffic in areas like bedrooms and living rooms.
AC1 laminate floors are not recommended for high traffic areas such as entryways, kitchens, or bathrooms. If you have pets or children, you may want to consider a higher abrasion class.
AC2 General Residential.
AC2 general residential classification is the second highest abrasion class. AC2 laminate floors are suitable for all areas in your home except for high traffic areas, such as corridors, living rooms and dining rooms.
AC3 Heavy Residential.
AC3 heavy residential is the toughest and most durable type of laminate flooring. It can withstand heavy foot traffic and is ideal for high-traffic areas in your home, such as the living room or kitchen.
AC4 General Commercial.
AC4 general commercial is a good option for areas with high traffic, like offices and schools. It can also be used in residences with kids and pets.
AC5 Heavy Commercial.
AC5 heavy commercial is one of the highest laminate flooring ratings and is suitable for high traffic areas such as offices, retail stores, and restaurants. This type of laminate flooring can withstand heavy foot traffic and is resistant to scratches, stains, and fading.
Types of Laminate Flooring Edges.
1. Square Edge.
Square Edge is the most common type of laminate flooring edge. The planks have a square or beveled edge that butts up against the next plank in the row. Square Edge floors are easy to install and provide a clean, finished look.
2. Rolled Bevel.
Rolled bevel is a type of edge that is created by rounding over the edges of the laminate plank. This type of edge is often used in areas where there is a lot of foot traffic, such as kitchens and bathrooms.
Rolled bevels can also be used in conjunction with other types of edges, such as square or chamfered edges.
Rolled bevels create a softer, more inviting look and can also help to hide any imperfections in the laminate planks.
They are however, more susceptible to damage and wear over time and may require more maintenance than other types of edges.
3. Micro-Bevel.
Micro-bevel is a type of laminate flooring edge that is created by sanding the edges of the laminate planks at a very slight angle. This creates a small, raised lip on the edge of each plank. Micro-beveled edges are less likely to show wear and tear over time, and they can also help to hide any imperfections in the underlying substrate.
Micro-beveled edges are available in a variety of different profiles, including square, rounded, and beveled. Most manufacturers offer a limited selection of micro-beveled edge profiles, so it is important to choose the one that best fits your needs.
4. Deep Bevel.
Deep bevel is the most common type of bevel found on laminate floors. This type of edge is best suited for rooms that get a lot of traffic or where there is a lot of furniture.
The main advantage of deep bevel is that it does a good job of hiding imperfections in the subfloor. It is also good at disguising any gaps between the boards. Deep bevel can be tricky to clean, however, as dirt and dust can collect in the crevices.
5. Painted Bevel.
Painted bevel is a type of laminate flooring edge that has a slightly raised lip. The lip is usually about .125 inch (0.32 cm) higher than the rest of the plank. Painted bevels can be either square or rounded. Square painted bevels are more common, but rounded ones give your floors a softer look. Painted bevels are available in a variety of colors, so you can match them to your laminate floors.
Painted bevels are easy to clean and maintain. The lip helps to prevent dirt and dust from getting under the flooring. Painted bevels also help to hide any imperfections in the flooring.
Types of Laminate Flooring by Gloss Level.
There are three main types of laminate flooring by gloss level: high-gloss, semi-gloss, and low-gloss.
High-gloss laminate floors have a shiny, reflective surface that is easy to clean and maintain.
Semi-gloss laminate floors have a satin finish that is less reflective than high-gloss, but still easy to clean.
Low-gloss laminate floors have a matte finish that is not as reflective as semi-gloss or high-gloss, but can give your home a more natural look.
FAQs
What thickness of laminate flooring is best?
There are a few things to consider when deciding on the thickness of your laminate flooring.
The first is the subfloor. If you have a concrete subfloor, you’ll want to choose a thicker laminate flooring. This will help to reduce noise and provide a more comfortable walking surface.
The second thing to consider is the height of your doorways. If you have high doorways, you’ll want to choose a thicker laminate flooring so that the transition between the two surfaces is less noticeable.
The last thing to consider is the overall look and feel of the space. If you want a more formal look, you may want to choose a thinner laminate flooring.
If you’re going for a more rustic look, you may want to choose a thicker laminate flooring. Whatever your preference, there’s a laminate flooring thickness that’s right for you.
What are the benefits of choosing a thicker laminate flooring?
There are several benefits to choosing a thicker laminate flooring.
The first benefit is that thicker laminate floors are more durable. They can withstand more wear and tear, making them ideal for high traffic areas.
Secondly, thicker laminate floors tend to be quieter than thinner floors. This is due to the fact that they have more padding, which absorbs sound better.
Finally, thicker laminate floors tend to be warmer than thinner floors. This is because they have more insulation, making them ideal for colder climates.
Do you need underlayment for laminate flooring?
The short answer is yes, you need underlayment for laminate flooring. The long answer is a bit more complicated.
Underlayment is a thin layer of material that is placed between the subfloor and the finished flooring. Underlayment provides several benefits, including:
-absorbing impact and noise
-providing a smooth, level surface for the finished flooring
-protecting the finished flooring from moisture
While underlayment is not absolutely necessary, it is highly recommended. without underlayment, your laminate flooring may not last as long or look as good as it could.
Conclusion
So, there you have it – the three main types of laminate flooring. As you can see, each one has its own unique benefits and drawbacks. Weigh up your options carefully before making a decision – and don’t forget to factor in the cost! – and you’ll be sure to find the perfect flooring for your home. Good luck!
