Choosing the Best Laminate Flooring for the Home

If you’ve chosen laminate flooring for the home, you will be enjoying the many benefits this floor offers. With durability, resistance to scratches and stains and added protection against moisture, laminate is an excellent choice for residences. It can be installed anywhere, including basements and full baths, and there are an abundance of choices. Since the top layer is a photograph of real wood, you can enjoy the seamless look of grain patterns and wood species that are characteristic of real wood. Not to mention, laminate is affordable and its easy installation process makes it possible for any DIY-er to carry out the job. There’s no doubt that when shopping for laminate, homeowners look for the best laminate flooring on the market. Some homeowners only plan to install the very best, while others use the best floors as a point of comparison. While there is not one “best” product out there, there are certain characteristics to look for when making your selection. By doing the necessary research, you can make the best decision for your own family, lifestyle and budget. When looking at the durability of the laminate, consider the AC rating. The AC rating is a standard system that measures the durability of the flooring. More specifically, it looks at the laminate’s resistance to stress such as burns, scratches and stains. AC1 to AC3 are the ratings that are best suited for residences. First determine where you plan to lay the laminate. Bedrooms or less used areas will be fine with AC1 laminates. High-traffic areas however, will need AC3 laminates. Higher ratings are used for commercial properties and are not necessary for the home. When choosing the best laminate flooring, you also need to consider how much contact the floors will have with moisture. Kitchens and bathrooms will obviously have a fair amount, but even family rooms and home offices may collect a lot of accidental spills. While no laminate is foolproof against moisture, choosing a quality underlayment will help. The underlayment serves as a barrier and will absorb the moisture before it gets to the flooring. Underlayment also absorbs sound and noise, creating the more natural sounds of a solid hardwood floor. You will also need to choose laminate flooring that complements your home. The best laminate flooring will create a seamless look throughout the home. To choose the right color, look at your furniture and other fixtures such as cabinets and end tables. If you plan to change your furniture in the next few years, only use your furniture as a guide. In general, a lighter color wood is ideal for casual atmospheres, while darker woods look best with modern, sophisticated decors. Lighter woods will also show more scratches and wear and tear, so darker stains may be ideal for hallways and entryways. Finally, ask the manufacturer or retailer about the warranty on the floor. The best laminate flooring will come with a lifetime warranty, while others will carry a 15-year warranty. Just be sure to get the details, as some things you use or do, including floor cleaners, can compromise the warranty. By taking the time to choose the best laminate flooring, you will be most satisfied with your purchase and enjoy an extended lifetime with your new floors.