Laminate Flooring: Durability Meets Affordability

Laminate flooring has come a long way since its introduction. Modern laminate offers stunningly realistic wood and stone visuals combined with tough-as-nails durability, all at a price point that makes renovations accessible.

What is Modern Laminate?

Laminate is a composite flooring made of a high-density fiberboard (HDF) core with a photographic image layer on top, sealed by a clear, hard resin coating.

Durability Ratings (AC Ratings)

Laminate durability is measured by the Abrasion Class (AC) rating. We recommend:

• AC3: Heavy residential use (perfect for living rooms, hallways).
• AC4: Commercial traffic (great for busy homes with pets).

Why Choose Laminate?

• Scratch Resistance: The resin top coat is incredibly hard, often more scratch-resistant than wood or vinyl.
• Cost-Effective: You get the look of hardwood for a fraction of the material cost.
• Water Resistance: New "water-resistant" laminates feature tight locking mechanisms and treated cores that can withstand spills for up to 24-72 hours.

Installation Advantages

Laminate is a floating floor, meaning it clicks together over an underlayment without glue. This allows for faster installation and makes it a great candidate for installing over existing hard surfaces like tile (provided they are flat).

The DuraRoots Approach

While laminate is easier to install than wood, subfloor flatness is critical. We spend extra time leveling your floor to prevent the "hollow" sound or bouncing effect often associated with poor laminate installs.