Answering Laminate Flooring FAQs: Lifespan, Maintenance, Design, and Installation

Laminate flooring is attractive, easy to maintain, and often less expensive than hardwood or other flooring options.

But, if you’ve heard the rumors that the quality of the floor doesn’t measure up, then you’re probably having second thoughts. How long does laminate flooring last? And is it even worth it?

We think so.

The quality of laminate flooring has improved drastically over the years, making it a top choice for an affordable and beautiful flooring option. We cover the details below.

Table of Contents

• How Long Does a Laminate Floor Last?
• 5 Factors That Determine How Long Laminate Flooring Will Last 
• 3 Signs It May Be Time To Replace Your Laminate Flooring
• Laminate Flooring FAQs
• Ready To Replace or Upgrade Your Laminate Flooring? Call the Local Experts at Interior Motives Flooring

How Long Does a Laminate Floor Last?

The lifespan of a laminate floor can vary depending on several factors such as the quality of the laminate, the installation, and the maintenance. Generally, a good quality laminate floor can last between 15 to 25 years or more with proper care.

Factors such as … 

• Foot traffic
• Pets
• Humidity levels; and 
• Exposure to sunlight 

… can also impact the lifespan of a laminate floor. Laminate floors in high-traffic areas or homes with active children or pets may experience more wear and tear than those in less frequently used areas.

Proper installation is also crucial to the longevity of a laminate floor. It is essential to ensure the subfloor is level, dry, and clean before installation. Installing an underlayment can help to:

• Absorb sound
• Reduce moisture; and 
• Improve the stability of the laminate

Regular maintenance, such as cleaning up spills promptly, avoiding excessive water use during cleaning, and using felt pads on furniture can also help to prolong the life of a laminate floor.

Overall, a good-quality laminate floor can last for several years, but the lifespan ultimately depends on installation and maintenance. 

5 Factors That Determine How Long Laminate Flooring Will Last

#1: Quality of Laminate

Laminate flooring comes in varying levels of quality. The quality of the flooring is the most significant factor that will determine its longevity. 

Higher-quality laminate flooring is going to be more durable and resistant to wear and tear than lower-quality laminate flooring.

When choosing a laminate, consider the quality and rating of the wear layer as well.

Wear Layer

The wear layer is the top surface of the laminate flooring that provides durability and resistance to wear and tear. It is a transparent, protective layer that is applied to the decorative layer of the laminate plank during the manufacturing process.

The thickness of the wear layer can vary, typically ranging from 6mm to 30mm. A thicker wear layer provides more protection against scratches, dents, and fading and can contribute to the overall longevity of the flooring.

It’s usually made of aluminum oxide, melamine resin, or a combination of both. These materials are known for their durability and resistance to abrasion, moisture, and stains.

The wear layer is the most critical component of laminate flooring and plays a significant role in determining the durability and lifespan of the flooring. 

It is essential to choose laminate flooring with a thick and high-quality wear layer for areas with high foot traffic or where the floor is likely to be subjected to wear and tear. Usually, the wear layer is ranked 1 to 5, with 4-5 being commercial-grade durability. 

#2: Core of the Laminate

The core of laminate flooring is typically made of high-density fiberboard (HDF), which is a composite wood product made from wood fibers, resin, and wax. HDF is a dense and stable material that provides the flooring with structural stability and durability.

The thickness and density of the HDF core can significantly impact the quality of the laminate flooring. Higher-density cores are generally more durable and can better withstand:

• Impacts
• Heavy foot traffic; and 
• Other wear and tear

The quality of the HDF core can also impact the moisture resistance of the laminate flooring. Lower-quality HDF cores may be more susceptible to swelling or warping when exposed to moisture, which can cause the laminate flooring to buckle or become damaged.

Another factor that can affect the quality of the HDF core is the manufacturing process. A quality manufacturing process ensures that the HDF core is uniform in density and thickness. This can contribute to the structural stability and overall quality of the laminate flooring.

#3: Exposure to the Elements

Environmental factors such as exposure to sunlight, moisture, and humidity can impact the lifespan of laminate flooring. Direct sunlight can cause fading and discoloration, while excessive moisture can cause the flooring to warp and buckle.

Many manufacturers are adding waterproofing to their laminate flooring, but it’s still wise to avoid installing laminate in areas that are exposed to excessive moisture, such as bathrooms.

It’s also good to avoid using wet mops on laminate flooring and stick to damp mopping once a month or once every two months.

If laminate flooring gets water-damaged, the planks must be removed and replaced.

#4: Quality of Installation

Installation is a critical factor that can significantly impact the quality and performance of laminate flooring. Poor installation can lead to problems such as uneven floors, gaps or buckling, and premature wear and tear.

Here are some ways that installation can affect the quality of laminate flooring:

1. Subfloor preparation: Failure to properly prepare the subfloor can cause unevenness and compromise the stability of the laminate flooring.
2. Moisture barriers: Moisture can cause laminate flooring to warp or buckle. Proper installation requires a moisture barrier to be installed to prevent moisture from penetrating the subfloor.
3. Underlayment: Underlayment is a layer that goes between the subfloor and the laminate flooring. It provides cushioning, sound absorption, and helps to smooth out minor imperfections in the subfloor which can lead to uneven floors.
4. Acclimation: Laminate flooring needs to acclimate to the environment in which it will be installed to avoid expansion or contraction due to changes in temperature or humidity. It is essential to let the flooring sit in the room for a few days before installation.
5. Proper tools and techniques: Failure to use the correct tools or techniques can cause damage to the flooring or result in an unstable installation.

It is recommended to have a professional put in the laminate flooring to ensure proper installation and avoid problems that could compromise its quality and performance.

If you’re looking to have laminate flooring installed in your home or business in Auburn, WA, Interior Motives Flooring can help. We are flooring experts with over 30 years of experience in the industry. We are family-owned and operated and have a five-star rating on Google.

Give us a call and find out why our customers love us.

#5: Amount of Foot Traffic

Laminate flooring is made of several layers, including a top wear layer, a decorative layer, a core layer, and a bottom balancing layer. The wear layer is the topmost layer of the flooring that is designed to protect the decorative layer and the core layer from scratches, stains, and wear.

The lifespan of laminate flooring is heavily influenced by the quality of the wear layer and the amount and type of foot traffic it receives. 

If the wear layer is of high quality, it can withstand a considerable amount of foot traffic without showing significant signs of wear and tear. However, if the wear layer is of low quality or if the foot traffic is excessive, the flooring may show signs of wear such as scratches, scuffs, and dents, which can shorten its lifespan.

The type of foot traffic can also affect the lifespan of laminate flooring. Heavy and sharp objects, such as … 

• High heels 
• Furniture legs; and 
• Pet claws 

… can cause more damage to the flooring than light and rounded objects, such as socks or slippers. Abrasive dirt and sand can also scratch and dull the surface of the flooring, which can also reduce its lifespan.

To ensure the longevity of laminate flooring, it is essential to choose a high-quality wear layer and limit heavy and sharp foot traffic, especially in high-traffic areas. 

It is also important to clean and maintain the flooring regularly to remove dirt and prevent scratches.

3 Signs It May Be Time To Replace Your Laminate Flooring

#1: Excessive Scratches, Dents, or Chips

Laminate flooring is designed to be durable and long-lasting, but over time it can begin to show signs of wear and tear. This can include scratches, scuffs, and dents on the surface of the flooring. 

If the wear and tear on your laminate flooring is extensive and affecting the appearance of your space, it may be time to replace it.

#2: Separation

Over time, the adhesive used to install laminate flooring can weaken, causing planks to become loose or shift out of place. 

If you notice that your laminate flooring has loose or damaged planks, it may be time to replace it. Not only can loose planks be a tripping hazard, but they can also allow moisture to seep into the subfloor, causing further damage.

#3: Deteriorating of the Wear Layer or Design Pattern

Laminate flooring can never be refinished. As the wear layer and design pattern start to deteriorate, the floor will begin to appear “worn-out” and no longer have the look you once fell in love with.

This is particularly true in areas that experience high foot traffic, such as foyers, hallways, and stairs.

Laminate Flooring FAQs

What Types of Laminate Flooring Are There?

There are several types of laminate flooring available on the market, each with its own unique characteristics and benefits. Here are some of the most common types of laminate flooring:

1. High-pressure laminate (HPL)
2. Direct pressure laminate (DPL)
3. Embossed laminate
4. Smooth laminate
5. Hand-scraped laminate
6. Wide-plank laminate
7. Natural-look style and patterned tile laminate
8. Laminate hardwood flooring, including oak and walnut 
9. Matte and semi-gloss laminate flooring
10. Waterproof laminate flooring

In addition to these types, laminate flooring is also available in a wide range of colors, patterns, and finishes, allowing homeowners to choose a flooring style that complements their personal taste and interior design preferences.

Is Laminate Flooring Easy To Maintain?

Laminate flooring is generally easy to maintain and typically comes with instructions for care from the manufacturer. The best method of care will depend on the materials used in construction. 

The top layer of laminate makes it easy to clean. Spills and stains can be wiped up quickly and the flooring shouldn’t need regular mopping, just sweep and vacuum regularly.

To help prolong the life of your laminate flooring, you may want to put down area rugs in high-traffic areas and use pads on the bottom of furniture legs to avoid scratches.

Overall, with proper maintenance, laminate flooring can be a durable and easy-to-care-for flooring option.

What Areas Are Best for Laminate Flooring?

Laminate flooring is a popular and versatile flooring option that can be a great choice in a home or commercial space. 

Some areas that are well-suited for laminate flooring include:

• Living areas
• Bedrooms
• Hallways and entryways
• Kitchens
• Basements 

Always consider the specific needs of each area before making a final flooring decision.

What Can I Do To Make My Laminate Flooring Last Longer?

To prolong the life of your laminate floors, it’s important to follow the care instructions provided by the manufacturer. 

Additionally, you can follow these tips:

1. Avoid acidic cleaners like vinegar and ammonia
2. Do not use wax-based cleaners
3. Use a damp mop, not a soaking wet mop
4. Keep your pet’s nails trimmed
5. Regularly use a broom or vacuum to remove debris
6. Avoid using the beater brush on your vacuum
7. Use doormats to reduce the dirt, sand, and moisture that gets tracked in
8. Promptly clean spills and stains

By following these simple steps, you can help ensure your laminate flooring lasts for many years to come.

Ready To Replace or Upgrade Your Laminate Flooring? Call the Local Experts at Interior Motives Flooring

We are the local experts in all things flooring. From laminate to hardwood to tiling and everything in between, we can help you choose the flooring that fits both your design wishes and your budget.

We only use high-quality laminate flooring materials from manufacturers we trust.

If it’s time to upgrade your home or business’s flooring, contact Interior Motives Flooring in Auburn, WA. We’ll be happy to walk you through our showroom to see the various laminate flooring options we offer. From there we will come to your home and offer a free consultation and estimate.

Call or visit today!