Laminate Flooring Buying Guide

If you are planning to buy laminate flooring, it is important that you take a few moments of your time to read through this laminate floor-buying guide so that you make the right decision.

Look at AC Ratings

While shopping around for laminate floors, you may have encountered AC ratings. AC ratings are standards set by the Association of European Producers of Laminate Flooring, and these standards represent the durability of the product. The ratings range from AC1 to AC5. The first, AC1 is considered to have the least durability (though still strong), while AC5 is considered to have the highest durability.

The least durable, AC1 is enough for low-traffic places, such as a guest bedroom, while AC5 is for places where there is heavy traffic and the likelihood of abuse, such as a shopping mall. Of course, a higher durability nets a higher price, but you must also realize that even a heavy-traffic residential floor will do well with AC3 laminate floors. The more durable AC4 and AC5 laminate floors are just too much for residential floors.

Always Ask For a Sample

The pictures of the laminate floor on the Internet or on the brochures always look great. While we are not saying that all businesses deceive customers with pictures, we are saying is that it is better to get a physical sample.

Most flooring shops already have handy samples available and most Internet flooring companies would be happy to send you samples of their laminate flooring as well. To be sure about the right floor or design, see the floor in real life and compare it to your furniture and other décor.

Set a Budget

There are a lot of laminate floors that are available for pennies. Though they may seem to be a great value, many of these products have a lesser quality or have been discontinued in production. Discontinued laminate causes problems if you ever have to replace part of your floors down the road. Imagine having to replace the whole room's flooring just because one plank broke, or imagine having one plank in the middle of a room with an entirely different color than the rest.

Good quality laminate floors usually range from $2 to $6 per square foot. Just remember to stick to your budget and choose accordingly.

Choosing a Brand

The best brands are those that past customers have good experiences with. Ask around, or look at comments from users on the Internet. You will soon find a good brand that will suit your need.