My new client asked for laminate flooring the other day. I have to admit, my design heart panicked inside and flashbacks of the mustard yellow and green laminate flooring in my childhood kitchen flooded my mind. But as a diligent designer and having heard wonderful things about laminate, I decided to do my due diligence.
You guys. I was *floored*. (Yes, I went there.)
The single most wonderful thing about laminate versus engineered wood is the variety of colors and textures. Obvy it is basically a picture on a plank of HDF (high density fiberboard) or MDF (medium density fiberboard). HDF is more water resistant, so if you are in a store, be sure to ask the difference!
As for the photo layer, it seriously looks like the real deal! Actually I dare say, the colors and textures are a even better version that you cannot get in real life So if you want to take your space into the next design realm, laminate might be it.
Image credit: Apartment Therapy
Look at this! Would you second guess putting these modern whitewashed, refined farmhouse style wood planks in your home?
Laminate Flooring Pros
- Price point. Because engineered hardwood is much more expensive, the lower price point may single-handedly be the deciding factor for any budget conscious design savvy home enthusiast. I do not even mention real hardwood anymore because pricing is through the roof. And the variety and stains just do not satisfy my eclectic designs.
- Long lasting. I was pleasantly surprised to learn that the laminate flooring put down in the showrooms I visited had plenty of foot traffic and held up really well. I played devil’s advocate with three store managers and interrogated them on laminate. All three stood by their laminate and vouched for its quality and longevity.
- Practically scratch resistant.There is a wear layer that prevents every day scratches and you would have to use blunt force to damage the flooring. The nice thing about laminate is that you can replace one plank if it truly gets messed up.
- Most are water-resistant (and some are waterproof). Unlike hardwood, you don’t need to worry about rainwater or spills on laminate. With a bustling family and pets, my client definitely needs this aspect. Is this a deal break for you too? I am guessing yes.
- Wide variety of styles. And as I said before, the variety of shades, stains, woods and styles laminate offers beats second to none.
One concern my client and I had was the hollow feeling laminate can level underfoot. As I learned about laminate, there is a padding called underlayment.
Image Credit: Flooringinc. Blog
I was unanimously assured that as long as we purchased the good to best quality laminate and padding, it would feel just like wood flooring. And you won’t hear klick klack sounds as you or others walk around the house. You know that sound, right?
What is a post from me without some inspo? Here are some ideas I have for my client’s home.
Laminate Flooring Inspo
Image Credit: Home Base Co UK
The texture, wood grain and warm walnut color just gets me. I think we have a winner!
Image Credit: Inspired Room
And what new family room would be complete without textured laminate floors and a cute pup!
Kitchens are a great place for laminate too! Engineered wood can withstand moisture in a kitchen, but laminate can hold up even better depending on the “wear” layer. So definitely ask questions and make sure you are purchasing what you need for your space.
Image Credit: Scout and Nimble
I am such a sucker for white kitchens like this one!
Now that I have a good idea of what tone and texture I want for my client’s living space, its off to source and discuss with her. I cannot wait to show you the end result!
Want help with your space? Please don’t hesitate to contact me. I love love love helping my clients make their spaces beautiful! I am pretty sure I found my calling!
Happy day!
can you lay down a laminate floor over a cushion floor? or do you have to lift the cushion floor? thanks, kay.