Looking for a flooring option that fits your busy lifestyle without breaking the bank? Our laminate flooring guide is here to help! We'll walk you through the benefits of laminate, show you how it can work beautifully in any room, and share practical tips to make it the perfect choice for your home. As your local flooring store, we’re your trusted neighbour, ready to support you with honest advice and solutions that make sense for your family. Let’s explore how laminate flooring can bring style, durability, and simplicity to your everyday life.
Laminate flooring is a versatile and cost-effective alternative to traditional hardwood floors. It's designed to mimic the appearance of wood, stone, or tile while offering enhanced durability and ease of maintenance.
All laminates are constructed of four layers: wear, design, core, and back.
Thanks to this layered construction, laminate flooring absorbs the heavy traffic and day-to-day use of an active household, while the smooth surface continues to look as good as the day it was installed.
Laminate flooring comes in a variety of options to suit different styles and budgets. When shopping around for laminate flooring, here's what you need to consider:
Laminate flooring is typically available in thicknesses ranging from 6mm to 12mm. Thicker planks (10–12mm) offer better durability, sound insulation, and a more solid feel underfoot, making them ideal for high-traffic areas.
You'll also have the option to pick a texture and finish that complements your home.
Laminate is a durable flooring option, with options rated on the AC (Abrasion Criteria) scale from AC1 to AC5:
Standard laminate can be vulnerable to moisture, but newer options include water-resistant laminate, which can handle spills and damp mopping, as well as waterproof laminate flooring, which offers complete protection against moisture. As you can imagine, waterproof laminate will be necessary in rooms such as bathrooms and basements.
Your final call will be to decide on the style and colour of your laminate flooring. The good news is that laminate is available in a wide range of styles. You'll have the option to choose between classic oak and maple to modern greys and whitewashed finishes, as well as stone or tile looks. These options make laminate flooring a flexible and popular choice for almost any room or design preference. See and feel the quality firsthand, by ordering flooring samples delivered straight to your door.
Homeowners love laminate flooring for its combination of style, durability, and affordability. Thanks to high-definition printing technology, modern laminate can convincingly mimic natural materials, allowing homeowners to achieve the aesthetic they want without compromise.
Another major draw is laminate’s practicality. It’s highly resistant to scratches, dents, and stains, making it perfect for busy households with kids, pets, or heavy foot traffic. Many varieties are also water-resistant or waterproof, making them suitable for kitchens, bathrooms, and basements where traditional wood floors might not hold up.
Even cleaning is a breeze as dust, dirt, and debris can be easily swept away or cleaned with a damp mop. Add in the ease of installation, and it’s clear why laminate is a go-to solution for homeowners who want beauty and functionality without the hassle.
Installing laminate flooring is a relatively easy and straightforward process, especially thanks to modern click-lock systems that allow planks to snap together without glue or nails.
Before installation begins, it’s important to ensure the subfloor is clean, dry, and level. An underlayment is typically laid down first, which helps with sound absorption, provides a moisture barrier, and adds a bit of cushioning underfoot.
Some laminate planks even come with pre-attached underlayment for added convenience. With everything prepped, the planks are laid out row by row, usually starting from the longest wall with access to the full room.
One of the key advantages of laminate flooring is its floating design, meaning it doesn’t need to be fixed directly to the subfloor. This makes it ideal for covering existing flooring and for installation in almost any space. It also allows for easy removal or replacement of individual planks if needed.
Installers must leave a small expansion gap around the edges of the room to ensure the flooring has room to expand and contract with changes in temperature and humidity. Once complete, trim and transition pieces are added to give the floor a polished, finished look, making laminate an accessible choice for both professionals and DIY enthusiasts.
Thinking about installing laminate yourself? We get it—it’s tempting! But professional installation is the best way to make sure your floors look amazing, last for years, and keep their warranty intact. We’re here to help every step of the way. Check out our Hard Surface Floor Care and Warranty Guide for tips on keeping your floors beautiful for the long haul. We’re your neighbours in flooring, ready to make the process simple, stress-free, and perfect for your home.
Today’s laminates come in a wide range of stunning designs—from richly detailed wood looks to the elegance of tile or stone—all with the lasting durability and value that make them a smart choice for busy homes. Whether you’re drawn to natural textures or bold patterns, there’s a laminate style to match your vision and your budget. Check out our easy-to-use Room Visualizer tool to see your favourite options come to life in your space in just three easy steps!
Looking for more personalized and friendly advice? Contact us today and discuss with one of our friendly flooring experts to bring your ideas to life.
Laminate flooring is a practical, durable, and beautiful choice for busy families and everyday life. From wood-inspired textures to the timeless look of tile or stone, there’s a style to match your home’s personality and your budget. As your local flooring store, we’re here to help you navigate your options and find the perfect fit for your space. Think of us as your trusted neighbour, ready to offer expert advice and guidance every step of the way.
Stop by our showroom or schedule a free at-home consultation to get started today!
