Top Tips When Buying Laminate for Flooring: A Homeowner’s Guide
Laminate flooring is one of the most popular choices for homeowners today — and it’s easy to see why. It’s stylish, affordable, durable, and easy to maintain. But with so many options available, it’s important to make the right choices for your home.
Here are our top tips to consider when buying laminate for flooring:
1. Know Your Room’s Needs
Not all laminate is created equal. Are you installing in a high-traffic area like a hallway or living room? Or in a moisture-prone room like the kitchen? Choose high-wear, water-resistant laminate for busy or damp spaces to ensure longevity and performance.
2. Check the AC Rating
Laminate flooring comes with an AC (Abrasion Criteria) rating which measures durability:
AC1–AC2: Suitable for low-traffic areas like bedrooms
AC3: Great for general home use
AC4–AC5: Ideal for high-traffic areas or even commercial spaces
For most homes, AC3 or AC4 is a solid choice.
3. Consider the Style & Finish
Laminate for flooring now comes in a huge variety of styles — from realistic wood effects to stone finishes. Think about:
Colour tones (light oak, walnut, grey, etc.)
Texture (smooth, hand-scraped, embossed)
Plank size (wider planks can make rooms feel bigger)
Make sure the finish matches the feel of your room and the look you’re going for.
4. Underlay Matters
The right underlay improves comfort, sound insulation, and the lifespan of your flooring. Some laminate comes with an underlay attached — but in most cases, we recommend using a separate quality underlay tailored to your subfloor type (e.g., concrete or wood).
5. Professional Installation is Key
While laminate is known for being easy to install, professional fitting ensures a flawless finish and prevents common DIY mistakes. A good installer will also prep the subfloor and trim around edges and doors perfectly.
6. See Samples in Your Own Lighting
Lighting can dramatically affect how a flooring colour looks. That’s why we recommend seeing samples in your own home before making a decision — and at London Flooring Experts, we bring them right to your door!
🛠️ Need Help Choosing the Right Laminate for Flooring?
At London Flooring Experts, we offer a free home visit, measure your space, and show you the best laminate flooring options to suit your style, budget, and lifestyle.
📞 Call us on 020 3515 2343 or
🌐 Visit londonflooringexperts.com to book your free quote.