Laminate Flooring

Laminate flooring is a multi-layered flooring product designed to mimic the look of hardwood, stone, or tile—at a fraction of the cost. It features a high-density fiberboard (HDF) core for strength, a photographic layer that gives it a realistic appearance, and a tough wear layer that resists scratches and everyday wear.

It’s a popular choice for busy households, rental properties, and anyone looking for stylish, low-maintenance floors. Plus, many modern options are built to resist moisture.

👉 Browse our collection of waterproof laminate flooring to find durable styles that are both beautiful and built to last.

Installing laminate flooring is a DIY-friendly project with the right tools and preparation. Most modern laminate planks use a click-lock system, making it possible to install without glue or nails. You’ll need to prep your subfloor, lay underlayment, and then work plank by plank across the room.

For a full, step-by-step guide with photos and pro tips, check out our blog post: 👉 How to Install Laminate Flooring

Laminate floors are low-maintenance. Sweep or vacuum regularly to remove debris, and clean with a damp microfiber mop and laminate-safe cleaner. Avoid steam mops or excess water, as laminate isn’t waterproof. Wipe spills quickly to protect the surface and edges.

Laying laminate flooring is all about proper planning and staggered alignment. Start along the longest wall, using spacers to leave a small expansion gap. Planks should be staggered (like bricks) for strength and a more natural look.

Need a visual walkthrough? Visit our full tutorial here: 👉 How to Install Laminate Flooring

Laminate can be cut with tools like a circular saw, miter saw, jigsaw, or a laminate cutter. Use a fine-toothed blade and cut with the decorative side up to avoid chipping. Always measure carefully and cut on a stable surface.

If you’re following along with your install, our laminate installation guide includes cutting tips too.

Traditional laminate flooring is water-resistant, but not 100% waterproof. It can handle light spills if cleaned up quickly, but standing water or high-moisture environments can damage the core. If you're looking for more protection, shop our waterproof laminate options—ideal for kitchens, bathrooms, or basements.

Installing laminate flooring is fairly straightforward, but a few small missteps can lead to big problems down the line. Here are some of the most common mistakes to watch out for:

1. Skipping the Underlayment
Even if your subfloor looks smooth, skipping underlayment can lead to noisy floors and reduced durability. Underlayment adds sound insulation, moisture protection, and helps level out minor imperfections. Some laminate comes with it pre-attached, but if yours doesn’t, it’s worth the extra step.

2. Not Leaving an Expansion Gap
Laminate expands and contracts with changes in temperature and humidity. If you don’t leave a 1/4" gap around the edges of the room, the flooring may shift or buckle over time.

3. Failing to Prep the Subfloor
Laying planks on a dirty or uneven subfloor can cause alignment issues, squeaks, and even damage the locking system. Always clean thoroughly and make sure the surface is dry and level before you begin.

4. Lining Up Plank Ends
Planks should be staggered like bricks. Lining up the end joints across rows weakens the structure and creates a pattern that looks unnatural. Aim for a staggered layout for strength and a professional finish.

5. Rushing the Installation
Skipping key steps—like letting the planks acclimate, checking for level, or measuring carefully—can result in uneven rows, gaps, or wasted material. Taking your time upfront will save you from costly fixes later.