Versatile laminate flooring is popular with homeowners today. The ease of installation in any part of the home coupled with its various styles is appealing. Laminate floors, however, can be purchased cheaply or come with a high price tag. Learn the difference between cheap and expensive laminate floors in this guide.
What is laminate flooring?
Laminate flooring mimics the beauty of natural wood. Contrary to popular belief, laminate floors are not made out of plastic. Rather, the flooring materials consist of melamine resin and fiberboard. Innovative manufacturing brings out the quality of the laminate floors.
Two types of laminate flooring are available to homeowners. The first is wood-look laminate floors, which appear like solid hardwood floors without the hefty price tag. This type of laminate flooring is durable and stands up to foot traffic and play, such as from kids and pets.
A second type of laminate flooring resembles stone. Stone-look laminate floors replicate natural stones as well as porcelain and ceramic. The laminate feels softer and warmer underfoot in comparison to actual stone flooring. It’s a cost-effective alternative to stone or tile floors.
Laminate floors are built in layers, each with an important purpose. The back layer protects the planks from moisture. A core layer further protects against moisture and dents. The design layer is aesthetically pleasing, and the transparent wear layer protects against fading, moisture, and stains.
What are the differences between cheap and pricey laminate floors?
Laminate flooring, while a desirable choice, comes in varying qualities. Some manufacturers skimp on production, turning out a low-quality product that fails to endure. Others invest significantly in materials and production to offer a long-lasting option that does not require frequent replacement.
Expensive laminate flooring is crafted with all four aforementioned layers: the back, core, design, and wear. The multiple layers promote the flooring’s durability and strength and deliver an authentic wood appearance. A high-quality laminate floor does not, as a result of these layers, ruin easily.
Better quality laminate floors are thicker than lower-quality ones. Extremely thin laminate floors, which are available for as low as $1 per square foot, are unlikely to last long. They break down faster due to the top layer failing to be as strong as the higher-priced laminate flooring options.
Medium quality laminate floors are a step above low-quality ones due to the slightly thicker wear layer. It comes with a price tag of $2 to $4 per square foot. While noticeably better in quality, medium quality laminate floors last longer than low-quality ones but are not the best available.
The highest quality laminate floors run $3 to $5 or more per square foot, depending on the brand. However, these floors endure for many more years than the lower-priced options. Since they don’t wear out as fast, expensive laminate floors save homeowners money otherwise spent on replacements.
Higher priced laminate floors are far more durable than cheap options, meaning they stand up to the scratches and scuffs common in homes with heavy foot traffic. This is due to the quality of the outer layer, which prevents noticeable wear and tear.
Homeowners who choose the more expensive laminate flooring benefit from its greater resistance to moisture. Laminate floors repel water, unlike porous wood floors, and are thereby suitable for entrances to the home. Mold does not grow under laminate floors, saving homeowners money on mold repair.
How do homeowners identify high- and low-quality laminate floors?
1. Patterns
Other than price, high-quality laminate floors have distinct features. High-end laminate floors mimic timber because their patterns do not often repeat. Any repeats should be low, such as 1 in 20 boards. Low-quality floors, however, repeat patterns frequently, producing an artificial look once installed.
2. Edges
Beveled edges are another sign of a good quality laminate floor. Micro bevel edges provide better water resistance; plus, they are easier to clean. Rough and uneven edges are often markers of low-quality laminate floors and increase the risk of water damage and swelling.
3. Slip Resistance
High-quality laminate floors are less slippery than their cheaper counterparts. Poorer quality laminate floors fail to meet slip-resistance and anti-static industry standards; as a result, they pose as hazards to the home’s occupants. Furthermore, pricier laminate floors withstand fading and scratching.
4. Thickness
The thickness of the boards differs between low- and high-quality laminate floors. An 8mm thickness is optimal, as it indicates quality. Laminate floors start at 6mm, which offers less durability. The quality is based on the amount of wear layer—so a 12mm thickness does not automatically guarantee quality.
5. Guarantee
The manufacturer’s guarantee is an indicator of quality. Expensive laminate floors usually come with a guarantee of 30 years, as they are manufactured to be durable. On the other hand, cheaper versions may come with a 5-year guarantee, which is a warning of low-quality manufacturing.
Home Remodeling and Flooring from R3 Contracting
When you plan on home remodeling or upgrading your floors, review the pros and cons of cheap and expensive options. While a less expensive choice appears to save money at first, it can cost more in the long run due to increased wear and tear, and the need for replacement.
Once you’ve settled on a laminate flooring option that meets your functional and aesthetic needs, bring in R3 Contracting. We are a licensed flooring contractor dedicated to providing top-notch services to residential homeowners. Our experienced teams can advise you on the best flooring options.
Certain flooring materials are more suited for different parts of the home, such as laminate floors near the front entrance. We work with you to arrive at the best flooring solution. Our company specializes in installing floors of all materials, including laminate, hardwood, vinyl, ceramic, and porcelain tiles.
Homeowners in Hoffman Estates and Schaumburg, Illinois, trust R3 Contracting for our commitment to impeccable workmanship, use of premium materials, and excellent customer service. Contact R3 to speak with a team member and learn more about high-quality flooring and carpet installation.
