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Laminate Flooring Frequently Asked Questions: Durability & More

by Bestlaminate
Published: Last Updated on 4 comments 5 minutes read

We know that purchasing new flooring can be a big decision. We talked to first-time flooring buyers all the time and have gathered a list of 8 most frequently asked questions focused on laminate flooring durability.

1. We are looking for something to go with tongue and groove walls.  We have small kids and a dog and need something durable.  What do you suggest?

We would recommend Quick-Step laminates. They offer a huge selection of styles, thicknesses and commercial durability. View our entire Quick-Step Collection here!

2. I have never heard of Kronopol before. Is that a good brand? How does it compare to Armstrong?

Kronopol is made in Poland by the Swiss Krono group.  Kronopol is great because it is extremely durable and has a moisture resistant core. It is perfect for busy homes and is very low maintenance! Armstrong is also a very well known and high-quality brand. We would recommend and stand behind either of these brands that we carry.

Kronopol Bubinga

Kronopol Bubinga in a Nautical Bedroom

3. What do I look for to determine durability?

Durability is indicated with an AC Rating. The AC rating for laminate flooring is how the durability of your flooring is measured. Every laminate is rated based on a series of rigorous tests, including an abrasion test, burn resistance, impact resistance, stain resistance, and swelling under moist conditions.

4. Are all AC3 floors exactly the same in terms of durability?

Yes, AC rating is measured by how durable the surface of the flooring is and all floors go through the same test. AC3 rated floors are great for heavy residential use.

5. If  thickness has nothing to do with durability, what does it affect?

Thickness and AC rating of your flooring are not interdependent. The thicker a floor, the more sturdy is it. Think about paper – both can be equally good quality on the surface, but one can be thicker and sturdier than the other.

If you have an older wood subfloor, you should opt for a thicker laminate that will be sturdy. If you are installing over cement, thin laminate will work fine since your subfloor is already very sturdy. AC rating measured the durability of the surface and resistance to wear and scratches. The higher the AC rating, the more durable the flooring.

6. Why do they even make floors that are thicker than 8 mm?

Laminate flooring is available in thicknesses from 6mm to 12mm+.  As previously mentioned, thickness is not the only influence on durability, but it does help with the feeling of sturdiness. If you are in the market for flooring, order a free sample from us and choose a thinner and thicker laminate so you can really feel the difference.

8mm-category-banner wo shop

7. We are looking for wide dark wood flooring that looks like real wood.  Armstrong has been recommended by a friend, but we are open to other brands.  Any suggestions?

We stand behind all of our brands and only sell high-quality laminates. The differences between floors will be based on the durability, look, AC rating, and warranties you’re looking for. You can search black laminate flooring on our website and order samples to compare.

8.  When I put down a floor with attached padding, do I still need the vapor barrier underneath?

If you are installing on a wood subfloor, you do not need any additional underlayment. If you are installing on a cement subfloor, YES you must install a vapor barrier to prevent moisture from seeping up into your flooring. Learn more about the different types of subfloors and how to properly install laminate flooring over each!

We love hearing from you! If you have any questions, please feel free to ask them below! We want to help make your laminate flooring installation process as smooth as possible, from beginning to end.

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4 comments

Carol Rafferty September 23, 2012 - 12:22 pm

What is the difference in cleaning beveled vs non- beveled. We have dogs and am concerned with hair and dirt inbetween planks.

Reply
admin October 1, 2012 - 3:25 pm

Carol, there is no difference in cleaning. The only recomendation will be to use vacuum cleaner more often to clean the groves (when needed).

Reply
Joe March 20, 2012 - 8:59 pm

A little water was spilled on a pergo floor. One of the end seems has lifted slightly. Is there any way that it can be repaired?

Reply
Fred March 22, 2012 - 11:00 am

Joe, unfortunately once a laminate plank starts to seperate it is past the point of no return. You can try to inject some adhesive into the raised area with a small tipped super glue type adhesive and then put a weight or apply downward pressure onto the raised edge in hopes that when the glue cures it will hold the damged edge down and in place. This may or may not work depending on how bad the board has seperated/swelled due to moisture damage. Even if it does work this is only a temporary solution, you should remove the damaged board and replace it as soon as possible.

Reply

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