Thinking about laminate for your home? It’s a practical, good-looking option that works in all sorts of spaces, but it’s important to know what you’re getting. Below, we’ve answered some of the most common questions about laminate flooring, including how it performs, how to look after it, and what to consider before buying.
You can clean laminate with a damp mop, but not a soaking wet one. Too much water can seep into the joints and cause the boards to swell or warp. Stick to a well-wrung-out mop or a laminate-friendly spray cleaner for best results.
Laminate isn’t the best choice for areas with a lot of moisture, like bathrooms or wet rooms. Constant damp or standing water can damage the boards. For those spaces, it’s better to go for something waterproof like vinyl.
Too much water, heavy impacts, and dragging furniture without pads are the main culprits. Dirt and grit can also scratch the surface over time, so it’s worth using mats at doors and giving it a regular sweep or vacuum.
Most laminate flooring lasts between 10 to 20 years, depending on the quality, where it’s fitted, and how well it’s looked after. A good one, properly cared for, can last well over a decade.
8mm to 12mm is a solid choice for most homes. Thicker boards feel sturdier underfoot, help reduce noise, and can handle more wear and tear. If you’ve got uneven floors or high foot traffic, go for the thicker end.
Click-lock laminate is the easiest to fit. The planks snap together without the need for glue or nails, making it ideal for DIY. Just make sure your subfloor is clean and level before you start.
Not always. You can leave them on and use beading to cover the expansion gap around the edges. But if you want a neater, more seamless finish, taking the skirting off and refitting it after can look smarter.
Yes, it can be cheaper if you’re confident with DIY. But if it’s not fitted properly, mistakes can end up costing more in repairs or wasted materials. If in doubt, it’s worth getting the pros in, especially for larger rooms or tricky layouts.
The best type depends on your needs, but generally, look for laminate with a high AC rating (AC3 or above) for durability, a good thickness (8mm or more), and water resistance if it’s going in a kitchen.
Good quality laminate feels solid underfoot, has a realistic-looking finish, and a sturdy click system. Check the thickness, AC rating, and warranty length. If it looks flimsy, sounds hollow, or has a weak joint system, it probably won’t last.
Yes — in fact, it’s one of the best ways to keep them clean. Just use a vacuum with a hard floor setting or a soft brush attachment to avoid scratches. It’s a quick and easy way to pick up dust and grit before it gets trodden in.
Avoid steam cleaners, soaking wet mops, and anything too harsh like bleach or abrasive scrubs. These can damage the surface or force moisture into the joints. Stick to laminate-safe sprays or a diluted mild cleaner.
Once a week is usually enough, or more often in busy areas. Just use a damp mop or microfibre cloth — no soaking. Regular sweeping or vacuuming in between helps keep things tidy too.
Most off-gassing happens in the first few days after fitting. Good quality laminate with low-VOC ratings will off-gas less and clear faster. Make sure the room’s well ventilated for the first 48–72 hours after installation.
You can give it a quick daily wipe if needed, but avoid wet mopping every day. Over time, too much moisture can wear down the surface and damage the joins. A light clean with a dry or barely damp mop is more than enough to keep it looking smart.
Hard-wearing, easy to look after, and smart enough for any room — our laminate flooring range brings style and practicality together at a price that won’t be beaten. From classic wood looks to modern finishes, there’s something for every home.
