Laminate Types

If laminates looked fake the last time you checked, it’s time to check again! Today's laminate floors not only look like a real hardwood, tile, or stone floor, they feel like their natural counterpart. Premium brands offer advantages like realistic textures, exotic looks, and unbeatable performance.

Like most floor covering laminate offers low end, mid grade, and premium products. One difference is the thickness, or mils of the product. A second is the material used for the core. While most use high density fiber board, some use cherry or oak chips to increase stability and durability.

The big difference is in the quality of the image used for the decorative layer, and the number of images used before the pattern repeats itself. Premium products use a high definition image and embossing techniques. The smooth piano finish look of cabinets and office furniture have become one of the most popular laminate designs that have come to market in years.

You should also pay attention to how the boards assemble together. Some planks have a micro beveled edge and unique locking system. The last difference is the wear layer which resists staining and withstands impact. Premium brands can have up to ten coats and contain aluminum oxide.