Laminate Flooring Buyer’s Guide: What to Know Before You Buy

When it comes to upgrading your home, choosing the  right flooring is one of the most important decisions you'll make. If you're looking for a stylish, affordable, and durable option, laminate flooring is an excellent choice. But before you dive in, it’s essential to understand what makes laminate flooring unique and what factors to consider before making a purchase.

Whether you're renovating a single room or your entire home, this guide will help you make a smart and informed decision. For a wide range of quality laminate flooring options, visit O'Fallon Family Floors. They offer an extensive selection of styles to match any design preference.

Laminate flooring is a top pick for many homeowners due to its affordability, easy installation, and aesthetic versatility. In this laminate flooring guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know before you buy, including types of laminate flooring, pros and cons, installation tips, and how to maintain it.

What Is Laminate Flooring?

Laminate flooring is a multi-layer synthetic flooring product fused together through a lamination process. It is designed to mimic the appearance of hardwood, stone, or tile, often at a fraction of the cost.

Key Components:

• Wear Layer: Provides resistance to scratches, dents, and fading.

• Design Layer: A high-resolution image of wood or stone.

• Core Layer: Made of high-density fiberboard (HDF), offering strength.

• Backing Layer: Provides additional stability and moisture resistance.

Benefits of Laminate Flooring

Laminate flooring has surged in popularity for several reasons:

• Affordable: Less expensive than hardwood or tile.

• Durable: Resistant to scratches, moisture, and wear.

• Easy Installation: Many options come with a click-lock design.

• Aesthetic Variety: Mimics a wide range of natural materials.

• Low Maintenance: Simple to clean and maintain.

Types of Laminate Flooring

When shopping for laminate flooring, you’ll encounter various types based on installation method, thickness, and surface texture.

1. Installation Types

• Glueless Click-Lock: Easiest to install and ideal for DIY projects.

• Glue-Down: Offers extra stability, but requires adhesive and more time.

2. Thickness Options

• Ranges from 6mm to 12mm.

• Thicker boards offer better durability and sound insulation.

3. Surface Textures

• Smooth: Clean and classic appearance.

• Embossed: Adds realistic texture.

• Hand-Scraped: Mimics the rustic look of distressed hardwood.

Factors to Consider Before Buying

Before you commit to a purchase, keep these factors in mind:

1. Room Type

• Moisture-prone areas like kitchens and bathrooms need water-resistant options.

• Living rooms and bedrooms can use any standard laminate.

2. Foot Traffic

• High-traffic areas benefit from thicker and more durable laminate.

3. Subfloor Condition

• Ensure the subfloor is level, dry, and clean.

4. Underlayment Needs

• Some laminate includes pre-attached underlayment.

• Otherwise, purchase separately for soundproofing and moisture protection.

5. Style and Color

• Choose a color and pattern that matches your interior design theme.

Installation Tips

Laminate flooring is a favorite among DIYers, but following the correct steps is crucial for a successful result.

Step-by-Step Overview:

1. Acclimate Flooring: Let the planks sit in the room for 48 hours.

2. Prepare the Subfloor: Clean and level the area.

3. Lay Underlayment: If required, install a moisture barrier.

4. Install Planks: Start from a corner and use spacers to maintain expansion gaps.

5. Trim Edges: Cut planks as needed for a clean fit.

6. Add Molding: Finish with baseboards and transition strips.

Maintenance and Care

One of laminate flooring’s biggest perks is how easy it is to maintain.

Do:

• Sweep or vacuum regularly.

• Use a damp mop for deeper cleaning.

• Place rugs at entry points to reduce debris.

Don’t:

• Soak the floor with water.

• Use abrasive cleaners or steel wool.

• Drag heavy furniture without pads.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even with the best intentions, buyers sometimes overlook key aspects. Avoid these pitfalls:

• Skipping underlayment.

• Not leaving expansion gaps.

• Ignoring room-specific moisture concerns.

• Choosing style over function.

Where to Buy Quality Laminate Flooring

A great laminate floor starts with a quality product. O'Fallon Family Floors offers a wide selection of laminate flooring styles at competitive prices. Their expert team can help you find the perfect fit for your space and budget.

Final Thoughts

Laminate flooring offers a practical, beautiful solution for modern homes. By understanding the types, installation methods, and care routines, you’re well on your way to making a smart investment. Whether you're renovating a small space or your entire house, take the time to choose the right product and install it properly.

Have you installed laminate flooring in your home? What challenges or successes did you experience? Share your story in the comments below!