The Best Laminate Flooring Brands: A Buyer’s Guide
Laminate flooring is affordable, easy to clean, scratch-resistant, and durable. It can withstand high foot traffic, furniture movement, and impact. However, not all laminate brands are equal.
Maximize your investment by selecting a brand that offers top-quality, long-lasting products.
Best Laminate Flooring Brands
1. Best Overall: Pergo TimberCraft + WetProtect Waterproof Anchor at Lowe’s
Pergo TimberCraft laminate flooring offers both aesthetic appeal and practical durability. The WetProtect technology provides a lifetime waterproof guarantee, making it perfect for high-moisture areas like the laundry room and kitchen.
Pergo TimberCraft laminate has advanced surface protection that resists scratches and stains, including nail polish and paint. It features an authentic wood appearance with high-definition printing and an embossed surface, allowing for easy cleaning with steam mop or wet mop.
Pros:
- Ideal for every floor type
- Wet and steam mop approved
Cons:
- Cannot be refinished
2. Best Waterproof: AquaGuard Water-Resistant Laminate at Floor & Decor
AquaGuard is a water-resistant laminate with an authentic hardwood look and feel. It comes in styles like Foxtail Oaks, Mountain Valley, and others.
AquaGuard laminate flooring is scratch and dent-resistant. It has an AC-5 wear rating, perfect for homes with pets and children. AquaGuard laminate is 100% waterproof.
It protects against moisture and spills for up to 30 hours.
- Waterproof
- Stylish designs
- Durable
- Easy maintenance
- Limited styles
- Costly installation
3. Best Budget: TrafficMASTER Lakeshore Pecan Laminate at Home Depot
TrafficMASTER Lakeshore is a cost-effective laminate flooring option with a click-clock installation system that doesn’t require adhesive. Its scratch-resistant wear layer ensures durability. It can be installed over concrete or wood subfloors and is ideal for high-traffic residential areas with its AC3 rating.
Pros:
– Affordable
– Easy click-clock installation system
– Scratch-resistant wear layer
Cons:
– Prone to water damage
– No attached underlayment
4. Best for Kitchens: Shaw Repel Water Resistant Laminate at Home Depot
Shaw Repel Laminate uses advanced splash-proof technology to repel moisture and spills, safeguarding your floors from damage. It is also scratch, fade, and stain resistant, and easy to install and clean. You can wet mop without worrying about moisture damage to the floor.
Pros:
– Water and moisture-resistant
– Can be wet mopped
Cons:
5. Best Durability: LL Flooring Autumn Cider Oak Waterproof Laminate Flooring
LL Flooring Autumn Cider Oak planks are 12mm thick, providing excellent structural integrity and resistance to impact, dents, and wear.
LL Flooring laminate is durable, withstanding high foot traffic, impacts, and moisture. The Autumn Cider Oak has fine oak details, for an inviting touch.
The embossed texture enhances grip, reducing slips and falls. With an AC4 wear rating, the laminate can withstand daily use in residential and light commercial settings.
Pros:
– 12mm thick planks for durability
– Easy-click installation
Cons:
– Prone to water damage
6. Best Wide Plank: Quick-Step NatureTEK Plus
Quick-Step NatureTEK Plus offers wider and longer planks for a more expansive feel in a room.
The NatureTEK Plus collection is waterproof, so spills and moisture damage are not a threat. Its bevel design and the Uniclic locking system increase water resistance.
It has an AC4 rating for commercial durability. The protective layer holds up to everyday wear and scratches.
Pros:
-Wide planks
-Natural, authentic finish
-Stain, scratch, and water-resistant
Cons:
-Not completely waterproof
-Limited design options
7. Best for Bedrooms: Mohawk RevWood Plus Laminate Flooring
The RevWood Plus from Mohawk comes in various styles and finishes. The Essentials product line ranges from deep traditional to bright modern styles.
Mohawk RevWood Essentials is an affordable laminate flooring option that provides excellent floor protection despite lacking detailed waterproofing. It is ideal for rooms with minimal spillage. The CleanProtect technology includes antimicrobial properties in the finish, and the flooring is 4x more scratch-resistant than other options.
Pros:
– More affordable
– Offers various styles and finishes
– 4x scratch-resistant
Cons:
– Not suitable for high-traffic areas
– Not waterproof
When selecting the right laminate flooring option, there are several important factors to consider. One of these is the AC Rating.
The Abrasion Criteria (AC) rating evaluates the durability and wear resistance of laminate flooring on a scale from AC1 to AC5.
- AC1- Moderate Residential: For low-traffic areas, like bedrooms.
- AC2- General Residential: For moderate traffic residential areas like dining and living rooms.
- AC3- Heavy Residential/Moderate Commercial: For home areas with heavy foot traffic like entryways and hallways. It’s also suitable for moderate-traffic commercial spaces like small offices or boutiques.
- AC4- General Commercial: Designed for home use in all traffic areas and commercial settings with moderate to heavy foot traffic.
- AC5- Heavy Commercial: For intense commercial use, such as in department stores and public buildings.
Choose laminate flooring with an AC rating that matches the area’s traffic level to avoid premature wear or damage.
Assess the condition of your subfloor before purchasing laminate flooring to ensure it meets the specific requirements for installation. Consult with a professional for any necessary repairs or preparations.
Consider the environmental impact of the laminate flooring, including the source of raw materials and manufacturing processes. Opt for materials that are recyclable or reusable.
While laminate is water-resistant, not all options are fully waterproof. Take into account the moisture levels in your flooring area, particularly in bathrooms and kitchens.
Consider the installation method when choosing laminate flooring.
Some laminate flooring types have user-friendly click-and-lock systems for easy installation. Others require nails or adhesive. Consider your comfort level with installation or hiring professionals.
Research customer reviews and seek recommendations regarding laminate flooring brands.
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