Laminate Flooring Frequently Asked Questions
Have questions about laminate flooring? We have answers!
Can laminate handle heavy foot traffic?
Laminate is one of the most reliable flooring options for households with heavy foot traffic. Each plank is protected by a tough wear layer that protects against scratches, claw marks, dents, and fading.
What is an AC rating, and how do I choose?
AC (abrasion criteria) ratings measure your laminate’s resistance to wear, impact, and staining. Lower ratings (like AC1 and AC2) are better suited for low-traffic areas, while a rating of AC3 is the standard for most living areas. For very active homes with kids and pets, we recommend a rating of AC4. Laminate with a rating of AC5 is typically used in commercial spaces, like shops or offices.
What is the best way to clean laminate floors without leaving a residue?
The trick is to stay away from soaps, waxes, or harsh chemicals. Start by sweeping or vacuuming with a soft hard-floor attachment. When mopping, lightly mist a microfiber pad with a pH-neutral laminate cleaner and wipe in the direction of the grain. If your laminate looks hazy, wipe it down with a damp microfiber pad and a mix of equal parts water and white vinegar.
What kind of mop or cleaning solution is safe to use on laminate floors?
Use flat microfiber mops and fine-mist spray mops paired with pH-neutral laminate cleaners. Avoid traditional string mops, sponge mops, or steam mops. You’ll also want to avoid harsh chemicals like bleach, ammonia, wax-based polishes, and oil soaps.
How do you prevent moisture damage from damp air?
While newer water-resistant laminates handle daily surface spills well, their inner cores are still made from natural wood fibers that expand and contract as humidity levels shift. Maintain steady indoor humidity between 35% and 55%, using an air conditioner or a dehumidifier as needed.
Can laminate floors be installed in damp areas?
Standard laminate is not recommended in rooms that might be frequently exposed to standing water or persistent humidity. However, many modern water-resistant and waterproof laminate products can be safely installed in kitchens, half baths, and finished basements when installed with proper edge sealing. For full bathrooms or moisture-prone areas, it may be better to install waterproof luxury vinyl flooring or tile for peace of mind.
Is an underlayment required when installing laminate?
Yes, we always recommend an underlayment. A good underlayment cushions your step, softens impact noise from footsteps, and smooths out slight imperfections in your subfloor. Most importantly, it serves as a critical moisture and vapor barrier over concrete subfloors to protect your flooring from dampness.
Does board thickness matter when choosing laminate flooring?
Plank thickness typically ranges between 7mm and 12mm. Thicker planks between 10mm and 12mm feel and sound much more solid underfoot, more closely mimic real hardwood, and do a better job insulating against sound. They are also more forgiving of minor subfloor flaws and feature deeper, more realistic textures with stronger locking joints.
Can I DIY my laminate installation?
Most modern laminate uses a floating, click-lock design that snaps together tightly without any nails, staples, or messy adhesives. Many homeowners and handy DIYers can complete a standard room over a single weekend using everyday tools like a saw, tape measure, tapping block, and spacers. However, we do recommend letting the pros at Flooring 101 handle your installation!
If I damage my laminate, can it be repaired?
Small surface blemishes like minor nicks, chips, or surface scratches can easily be hidden using a laminate touch-up marker, wax stick, or putty kit. If a plank suffers deeper gouges or water damage, individual boards can be unclicked and replaced or carefully removed and swapped out.
Still Have Questions?
Contact our team or visit one of our showrooms!