How to Choose the Right Laminate Flooring: A Buyer’s Guide
March 11, 2025
Wood Floor Specialists
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Laminate flooring is one of the most popular and versatile flooring choices for modern homes. It combines style, durability, and affordability, making it a fantastic option for homeowners who want the look of real wood without the high cost or maintenance. But with so many options available, how do you know which laminate flooring is right for your space?
At Deluxe Floors, we offer a wide range of high-quality laminate flooring, from traditional straight plank to elegant herringbone styles. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the key factors to consider when choosing laminate flooring, so you can make the perfect choice for your home.
Laminate flooring is made up of multiple layers that work together to create a durable, realistic wood-effect floor:
✔ Wear Layer – A transparent, protective top layer that resists scratches, stains, and moisture.
✔ Design Layer – A high-resolution printed image of real wood, giving the laminate its authentic appearance.
✔ Core Layer – A high-density fibreboard (HDF) core that provides strength and stability.
✔ Backing Layer – The base layer that prevents warping and adds moisture resistance.
Each of these layers plays an important role in how durable, realistic, and long-lasting your laminate flooring will be.
One of the biggest factors when buying laminate flooring is the thickness of the board, which typically ranges from 7mm to 12mm.
| Board Thickness | Best For | Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| 7-8mm | Low-traffic rooms (bedrooms, studies) | Budget-friendly, but less impact-resistant |
| 10mm | Living rooms, kitchens, moderate foot traffic | Good durability, more comfortable underfoot |
| 12mm | High-traffic areas (hallways, open-plan spaces) | Feels more like real wood, absorbs noise better |
💡 Pro Tip: If you have an uneven subfloor, opt for 10-12mm laminate to provide better stability and prevent movement over time.
Laminate flooring is rated using the Abrasion Class (AC) scale, which measures how well it withstands wear and tear.
✔ AC3 – Suitable for residential areas (bedrooms, living rooms).
✔ AC4 – Ideal for high-traffic homes (hallways, kitchens, open-plan spaces).
✔ AC5 – Designed for commercial spaces but can be used in busy households.
For most homes, AC4 laminate flooring is the best choice, offering a great balance of durability, comfort, and affordability.
The edge profile of your laminate flooring affects both appearance and practicality:
✔ Bevelled Edge – Features small grooves between planks, mimicking real wood for an authentic look.
✔ Square Edge – Creates a seamless, smooth finish, ideal for modern interiors.
💡 Pro Tip: Bevelled edges add depth and character, while square edges work best for sleek, contemporary designs.
Most laminate flooring uses a click-lock system, making installation quick, easy, and mess-free. There are two main types:
✔ Standard Click Installation – Simple floating floor method, where planks slot together without glue or nails.
✔ Drop-Lock Click System – A newer, faster system that locks planks into place with minimal effort.
Both options make laminate flooring ideal for DIY installations, allowing you to transform your space without the need for professional fitting.
Laminate flooring comes in a variety of colours and finishes, so choosing the right one depends on your interior style:
✔ Light Oak & Whitewashed Laminate – Brightens small spaces and creates a Scandinavian-inspired look.
✔ Grey Laminate – A modern, versatile choice that works in both industrial and contemporary homes.
✔ Warm & Medium Oak Tones – Perfect for traditional and cosy interiors.
✔ Herringbone & Chevron Laminate – Adds elegance and luxury to any room.
💡 Pro Tip: If you want a floor that hides dirt and footprints easily, go for medium or natural oak tones.
Yes! Most laminate flooring is compatible with underfloor heating, making it a great choice for modern homes.
✔ Always check the manufacturer’s recommended temperature limits.
✔ Use an underlay designed for underfloor heating to ensure efficient heat transfer.
✔ Increase heat gradually after installation to allow the flooring to adjust.
At Deluxe Floors, all our premium laminate flooring options are underfloor heating compatible.
The right underlay can improve your laminate flooring’s comfort, insulation, and noise reduction.
✔ Standard Foam Underlay – Budget-friendly, provides basic cushioning.
✔ Soundproof Underlay – Reduces impact noise, great for apartments or upstairs rooms.
✔ Underlay with Damp-Proof Membrane (DPM) – Essential for concrete subfloors to prevent moisture damage.
💡 Pro Tip: If you’re installing laminate over wooden subfloors, a moisture-resistant foam underlay is ideal.
Choosing the right laminate flooring depends on your lifestyle, room type, and style preference. Here’s a quick checklist to help you decide:
✔ For high-traffic areas → Choose 12mm thick, AC4-rated laminate.
✔ For a modern, seamless look → Opt for square edge laminate.
✔ For a natural, realistic wood effect → Go for bevelled edges.
✔ For easy installation → Pick a click-lock system.
✔ For underfloor heating → Ensure your laminate is heat-compatible.
At Deluxe Floors, we offer a wide selection of high-quality laminate flooring, designed to suit every home and budget. Browse our range today and find the perfect floor for your space!
