Flooring Services
Laminate Flooring Installation
Cost-effective flooring with the beauty of hardwood but at a fraction of the price
650-668-5964
Get a Free Estimate
Why We Like Laminate
Laminate is one of the most budget friendly flooring options to achieve the appearance of wood, stone or tile, but with lower materials and installation cost. It can be installed relatively quickly and on a wide range of floor or subfloor types, which can save on labor and installation. We recommend it for homeowners that are going to maintain it properly and recommend it for rooms with low moisture and low risk of pooling water such as bedrooms and living rooms. For rental properties or high moisture areas, it’s ofter worth it to invest in LVP for it’s added durability and waterproof properties. So if you are looking for stunning flooring at a lower budget and are prepared to carefully maintain your floors, reach out to us today for a free quote and see if laminate is the right choice for you!
650-668-5964
Laminate Construction & Materials
Laminate floorboards are constructed in several layers. The backing layer provides stability and acts as a defense against subfloor moisture. The core is made from either high-density (HDF) or medium-density fiberboard (MDF) and provides impact resistance. A high-resolution photographic layer creates the appearance of wood, stone or tile. The top coating or wear layer provides protection against scratches, dents, and fading. Wood like laminate flooring doesn’t contain any solid wood products; it’s a synthetic product meant to give the appearance of natural materials.
Durability & Performance
Laminate can be highly resistant to scratches and foot traffic, making it a good option for households with children or pets. Unlike vinyl flooring, which is measured in millimeters, laminate durability is measured on the AC (Abrasion Class) scale, ranging from AC 1 (least durable) to AC 5 (most durable). Although there are waterproof laminate flooring options for kitchens and bathrooms, they are not suited for moisture-prone areas, as they are more water-resistant than truly waterproof. Humidity can seep into the seams and cause damage to the core, leading to swelling, warping, or delamination. If maintained properly, it can last 15-25 years, provided the correct AC level is selected, with exposure to moisture and foot traffic being the two major factors. While installing laminate flooring in a bathroom is an option, we would probably recommend LVP for its waterproof properties.
Style & Design
Thanks to high-resolution photographic and embossing technology, laminate comes in a wide array of visuals that mimic the appearance of wood, tile, and stone. A variety of color tones and grain patterns make it easy to match with decor styles, from traditional to contemporary. Textured finish options can replicate the tactile feel of natural materials such as wood and stone. Some examples include hand-scraped, wire-brushed, or smooth finishes. Laminate planks are available in a variety of sizes, including wide-planks that create the appearance of hardwood flooring. Commonly requested designs include gunstock or tile-effect laminate flooring. We work with some of the best laminate flooring suppliers in the industry, so we can recommend high-quality laminate at competitive prices.
650-668-5964
Laminate Flooring Installation Cost & Process
Laying laminate is one of the most cost-effective flooring options available, giving you a premium look without the higher cost of hardwood, tile, or LVP. Click-together laminate flooring is less labor-intensive, as it doesn’t need to be nailed or glued down to the subfloor. It can even be installed directly on an existing floor if the floor is flat and in good condition, reducing prep time and costs. Some laminate comes with the underlayment included, which acts as a moisture barrier, absorbs sound, and provides a soft underfoot feel.
Maintenance
Regular vacuuming or sweeping with occasional mopping keeps laminate looking new. Make sure the mop is damp, not wet, and avoid letting excess water pool, as it could damage the core. Place walk-off mats at entryways to prevent water or snow from being tracked onto the flooring. Use laminate-specific cleaners and avoid products containing ammonia or bleach, as they could damage the wear layer or dull the finish. Laminate wood flooring cannot be sanded down like hardwood flooring, so once the wear layer has worn down, the planks must be removed and replaced. Make sure to use furniture pads to avoid scratching or denting the surface. Replacing carpet on stairs with laminate is a popular application as it is easier to maintain than carpet and more resistant to staining.
Laminate vs LVP Comparison
The main difference between these two flooring types lies in their cores. LVP uses a vinyl-based core, which is reinforced with a wood- or stone-plastic composite for added rigidity. On the other hand, laminate has a fiberboard core which is inherently more vulnerable to moisture damage than the plastic-based core in LVP. This makes LVP a more dynamic flooring material as it can be used in more areas of a home. Generally, LVP has a thicker wear layer and a more flexible, impact-absorbing core, making it more durable than laminate. Laminate tends to have a harder underfoot feel and can sound hollow when walked on, whereas LVP tends to feel softer, warmer, and is quieter thanks to its synthetic core. Laminate has a more uniform, flat appearance, whereas LVP looks more realistic due to advanced embossing techniques that match the texture with the grain pattern. Both types of flooring use the click-lock installation method, although LVP is available in glue-down and loose-lay formats, offering more flexibility depending on the subfloor and application. Laminate can be much more budget-friendly at lower AC rating levels, whereas LVP tends to be more expensive due to its waterproofing properties and higher-quality core materials.
Get a Free Estimate
Why We Like Hardwood Flooring
Beauty that becomes part of your home.
Nothing compares to the elegance and natural beauty of stunning hardwood floors. From traditional homes to modern interiors, hardwood provides a timeless foundation that works beautifully across a wide range of design styles.
01
Timeless Beauty
Natural wood grain, rich textures, and beautiful finishes create an elegant look that never goes out of style.
02
Natural Warmth
Hardwood adds a warm, comfortable, and organic feeling beneath your feet while creating a welcoming atmosphere.
03
Built to Last
Well-maintained hardwood floors can last for decades and, in many cases, over a century.
04
Refinishable
05
Versatile Design
06
Long-Term Investment
- Other Services
Made to be lived on.
Laminate Flooring
Stylish laminate floors with expert installation.
Tile Flooring
Quality tile flooring with expert craftsmanship.
Floor Refinishing
Restore your floors to their original
beauty.