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Laminate Flooring Buying Guide

Whether it is a low-maintenance scheme or a budget-friendly design, this laminate flooring buying guide introduces all the options on offer within our laminate flooring and explains how best to use them. It also covers advice on on-trend tones and tips on installation to achieve the right fit and style for any interior or lifestyle.

What are the benefits of laminate flooring?

Durable

With a hardwearing top coating, laminate floors can stand up to scratches, stains, and regular use, making them a great option for those on the go.

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Durable

Finished with a resilient top layer, laminate is a hardwearing choice that can withstand the demands of daily life. If you are refreshing a high-traffic area, like a hallway or cooking space, be sure your chosen design is up to the job by checking the class rating. Running from one to five, with five being the most durable, this provides information on the overall performance of the floor and is tested for scratch resistance, strength, and stability.
Affordable

The low-cost construction of laminate means it is more affordable than luxe materials, like solid wood, making them a savvy choice for smaller budgets.

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Affordable

Laminate is made from economical materials, like high-density fireboard, so it is inexpensive to produce and readily available. This makes it a budget-friendly alternative to high-end materials, such as solid wood, and allows homeowners to transform a space at a fraction of the price. The cost savings made by using these floors can also free up money to spend elsewhere on other features.

Wide selection of styles

Available in a variety of colours, patterns, and textures, laminate floors can easily recreate the look of high-end materials for less.

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Wide selection of styles

Thanks to advanced printing techniques, laminate floorboards come in a wide selection of colours and patterns, which can replicate the appearance of high-end materials, like timber. This makes it easy to create a bespoke design that will suit any interior. For an authentic look that is indiscernible from the real thing, pick embossed styles which have a textured finish that mimics natural surfaces.
Low maintenance

Featuring a scratch and stain-resistant surface, laminate floors will continue to look good with little effort, making them practical for busy homes.

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Low maintenance

When compared to other materials, like real wood, which requires regular maintenance, caring for laminate styles is easy. Use a soft brush to clear away debris and a damp cloth to wipe down spills. These designs also have a non-porous surface that is resistant to stains and marks, meaning they will look as good as new with minimal effort – great for those with hectic schedules.

Is laminate suitable for any room?

What are the different types of laminate flooring available?

Plank

Replicating the appearance of natural timber, single-plank laminates create an authentic organic look without the cost – great for those on a budget.

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planks

For those who want the natural look of timber without the cost or upkeep of the real thing, single-plank laminates are a must-have choice. This style creates the impression of a single panel of wood taking up the full width of each board and gives a traditional finish. A wide selection of colours is available, making it simple to create a custom design.

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Chevron

Featuring an angular design that draws the eye, chevron floors have a contemporary look that will add visual interest in a quick and simple way.

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Chevron

Creating a zig-zag pattern, chevron floors have a decorative look that will elevate an interior. The angular shape draws the eye and leads it across the room, giving the illusion of more space. This style is also a low cost and contemporary alternative to classic parquet designs and comes in a selection of oak tones that will complement any decor.

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What are the different colours available?

Oak

With a classic look and characterful appearance, oak laminate flooring will create a cosy, warm interior inspired by the past.

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Oak

Natural materials have been used to furnish our homes throughout the ages, making oak laminate designs a good choice if you want to create an authentic heritage look. This tone has a timeless appeal and offers everlasting style. It also adds warmth to an interior, creating a nurturing atmosphere – great for living areas, bedrooms, and cooking spaces.

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Grey

Grey laminate flooring taps into the trend for cool neutrals, making it a fashionable choice for style-conscious homes.

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Grey

The popularity of grey within interiors shows no sign of slowing down, making floors in this shade a stylish choice if you want to create an on-trend space. This hue has a cool and contemporary appearance that will instantly update any room, making it a smart way to refresh a tired decor. It also has the same neutral quality as white and will suit any aesthetic.

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White

Timeless and neutral, white laminate flooring has an everlasting appeal that will ensure your interior looks good for years to come.

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White

Traditional interiors utilise colours that will transcend trends, making white a great choice for a laminate floor. It has a neutral appearance that is timeless and will complement a variety of decors, suiting those wanting a versatile option. Meanwhile, the bright tone maximises light and creates a spacious feel, making it a smart hack for small rooms or areas with little sunlight.

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Black

Dark and dramatic, black laminate flooring makes it simple to create a showstopping design that is also easy to maintain.

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Black

Bold and eye-catching, black floors are an easy way to create a statement design. Their light-absorbing shade helps draw in larger spaces to create a cosier and more intimate feel, making them a good option for open layouts or multi-functional rooms. It also means that the appearance of marks and imperfections is reduced, ensuring an interior looks clean and hygienic with minimum effort.

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Planning considerations

Water-resistant flooring

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Water-resistant flooring

If you want to add a laminate floor to a humid area, like a cooking space, then you need to choose a design that can withstand spills and splashes. Water-resistant styles will prevent some water penetration when all joins are properly sealed. You will still need to wipe up standing water immediately to prevent warping and bowing.

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Water-repellent flooring

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Water-repellent flooring

For those looking for a higher degree of protection against water ingress, water-repellent laminates are the best option. They have an additional layer and a specially-designed locking system that makes them more resistant to surface moisture. This makes them a practical choice for wet environments, such as washrooms and laundry areas, and will ensure the floor provides long-lasting use.

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Damp proofing and underlays

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Damp proofing and underlays

To ensure your new floor looks good and lasts for years to come, consider installing a damp-proof layer underneath. This product will prevent moisture from affecting or damaging the floor panels by keeping the boards dry and warm. Adding an underlay will also provide another layer of protection, reduce sound transference, and create an insulated feel underfoot – great for those wanting a cosy interior.

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Installation

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Installation

Featuring a click-fit system, the laminate designs in our collection are fast and straightforward for a trade professional to fit. They require no specialist tools, which saves time during installation, making them a good choice for households that want a faster refresh. Some options are also glueless, which minimises mess and ensures the clean-up job is quick and simple.

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