Laminate flooring has become one of the most popular choices for homeowners and businesses looking for a stylish, durable, and cost-effective flooring solution. With its variety of styles and ease of maintenance, laminate offers exceptional value. However, one key factor often overlooked when choosing laminate flooring is its thickness. Thickness plays a critical role in the flooring’s durability, comfort, and overall performance. In this blog, we’ll explore why thickness matters, how it impacts your flooring experience, and how to select the right option for your space. And if you’re ready to install laminate flooring, Floor Market’s professional installation service is here to help. Call us at 0475575575 today!

What Is Laminate Flooring?

Laminate flooring is a synthetic flooring product composed of multiple layers designed to provide durability and style at an affordable price. These layers include:

  • Wear Layer: A transparent topcoat that protects against scratches and stains.
  • Design Layer: A high-resolution printed image that mimics the appearance of wood, stone, or other materials.
  • Core Layer: A dense fiberboard or plywood core that provides stability and impact resistance.
  • Backing Layer: A layer that adds balance and prevents moisture damage.

One of the biggest advantages of laminate flooring is its versatility, offering options in various designs, finishes, and, importantly, thicknesses. Common thicknesses range from 6mm to 12mm, and choosing the right one depends on your specific needs.

Why Thickness Matters in Laminate Flooring

The thickness of laminate flooring is a crucial factor that impacts its performance, durability, and comfort. Thicker laminate planks are generally more robust, providing enhanced resistance to wear and tear, making them ideal for high-traffic areas. They also offer improved sound insulation, reducing the hollow noise that thinner options can produce, which is particularly beneficial in multi-story homes. Additionally, thicker planks mimic the feel of real hardwood, giving your space a more luxurious and high-quality aesthetic. From ease of installation to better stability on uneven subfloors, thickness plays a significant role in ensuring your laminate flooring not only looks great but also performs well over time.

The Importance of Thickness in Laminate Flooring

  1. Durability and Lifespan

Thicker laminate flooring is generally more durable and long-lasting. The extra thickness helps the planks resist dents, scratches, and the everyday wear and tear that comes from foot traffic, furniture, and pet claws. For high-traffic areas like living rooms and hallways, opting for thicker laminate ensures your flooring stays looking great for years to come.

  1. Comfort and Noise Reduction

Walking on thicker laminate flooring feels more comfortable, thanks to its enhanced cushioning effect. Additionally, thicker boards offer better sound insulation, reducing the hollow noise often associated with laminate flooring. This makes it an excellent choice for upstairs rooms or homes with multiple stories.

  1. Stability and Installation Ease

Thicker boards are more stable and less likely to warp or shift over time. They’re also easier to install because the locking mechanisms are more robust, ensuring a tighter fit. If you’re considering DIY installation, thicker laminate can make the process smoother. However, for a flawless finish, trust the experts at Floor Market to handle your installation. Call us at 0475575575 for professional service!

  1. Aesthetic Appeal

Thicker laminate flooring closely mimics the look and feel of real hardwood. It provides a more substantial appearance, adding to the perceived quality of your home’s interior. For homeowners aiming to create a luxurious aesthetic, thicker boards are an excellent choice.

Thickness Considerations for Different Scenarios

The Importance of thickness in laminate flooring

Choosing the right thickness for laminate flooring depends largely on the specific needs of the space where it will be installed. For high-traffic areas like living rooms, hallways, or kitchens, thicker laminate (10mm to 12mm) is ideal, as it can better withstand wear and tear while providing added stability and comfort. In low-traffic spaces such as bedrooms or closets, thinner options (6mm to 8mm) can be a more cost-effective solution without sacrificing style. In commercial environments or spaces subjected to heavy foot traffic, opting for the thickest laminate available ensures long-term durability. Additionally, for areas with uneven subfloors, thicker laminate can help mask minor imperfections, reducing the need for extensive floor preparation. By assessing the demands of each room, you can select the right thickness to achieve the perfect balance of performance, aesthetics, and budget.

High-Traffic Areas

For spaces like entryways, hallways, and living rooms, thicker laminate flooring (10mm to 12mm) is ideal. It’s more resistant to heavy foot traffic and maintains its integrity over time.

Low-Traffic Areas

In bedrooms and closets, where wear and tear are minimal, thinner laminate (6mm to 8mm) can be a cost-effective option without sacrificing style.

Commercial Spaces vs. Residential Use

For commercial settings or spaces with heavy foot traffic, opt for the thickest laminate available to ensure long-term durability. In residential spaces, the choice depends on the room’s purpose and your personal preferences.

How to Choose the Right Thickness of laminate

Selecting the right laminate flooring thickness requires balancing factors like durability, comfort, budget, and the specific needs of your space. For areas with heavy foot traffic, such as living rooms or kitchens, thicker laminate (10mm to 12mm) is a wise investment for long-term durability and enhanced stability. Rooms with less traffic, like guest bedrooms or closets, can comfortably accommodate thinner options (6mm to 8mm), saving on costs without compromising on aesthetics. Consider the condition of your subfloor\u2014thicker planks can help even out minor imperfections, reducing the need for additional preparation. If soundproofing is a concern, such as in upstairs rooms, thicker laminate or pairing it with quality underlayment is recommended. Always assess the intended use of the space, your budget, and the look you’re trying to achieve to make an informed decision. Consulting flooring experts, like those at Floor Market, can also ensure you find the perfect fit for your home or business.

  1. Budget vs. Quality

While thicker laminate is generally more durable and comfortable, it also comes at a higher cost. Evaluate your budget and determine where you can afford to invest in thicker planks.

  1. Subfloor Condition

If your subfloor is uneven, thicker laminate can help compensate for minor imperfections, reducing the need for extensive subfloor preparation.

  1. Room Purpose

Consider how the room will be used. For family rooms and kitchens, where activity is high, thicker laminate is worth the investment. For guest rooms or other low-use areas, thinner options may suffice.

  1. Soundproofing Needs

If noise reduction is a priority, such as in upstairs bedrooms, choose thicker laminate or pair it with a quality underlayment for optimal soundproofing.

Introducing Our Range: Laminate Planks, Herringbone, and Waterproof Laminate

At Floor Market, we offer an extensive range of laminate flooring options to suit every need and style:

  • Laminate Planks: Classic, versatile, and available in a variety of thicknesses and finishes to suit any room in your home.
  • Laminate Herringbone: A stylish choice that combines the beauty of traditional herringbone patterns with the durability of laminate.
  • Waterproof Laminate: Perfect for kitchens, bathrooms, and other areas prone to moisture, offering both functionality and aesthetic appeal.

Ready to transform your space? Browse our premium selection of laminate flooring at FloorMarket.com.au or call us at 0475575575 for expert advice and assistance. Let us help you find the perfect flooring solution!

Common Myths About Laminate Thickness

There are several misconceptions about laminate flooring thickness that can lead to confusion during the selection process. One common myth is that “thicker is always better.” While thicker laminate offers added durability, stability, and noise reduction, it’s not always necessary, especially for low-traffic areas where thinner options can perform just as well. Another myth is that “thin laminate is low quality.” In reality, thinner laminate can be highly durable when paired with a strong core and high Abrasion Class (AC) rating. Some people also believe that “using underlayment eliminates the need for thicker laminate,” but while underlayment enhances soundproofing and comfort, it cannot replace the structural benefits that thicker boards provide. Understanding these myths ensures you make a decision based on the practical needs of your space rather than misconceptions.

Myth 1: “Thicker is always better.”

While thicker laminate offers numerous benefits, it’s not always necessary for every situation. For low-traffic areas, thinner options can perform just as well.

Myth 2: “Thin laminate is low quality.”

Thin laminate can still be high-quality and durable, especially if it has a high AC (Abrasion Class) rating.

Myth 3: “Underlayment eliminates the need for thicker laminate.”

Underlayment enhances comfort and soundproofing but doesn’t replace the structural benefits of thicker boards. Both components work together for the best results.

Expert Tips for Buying Laminate Flooring

  • Check Product Specifications: Pay attention to the AC rating, which indicates the durability of the laminate.
  • Request Samples: Feeling the planks in person helps you understand the difference thickness makes.
  • Consult Professionals: Flooring experts can guide you to the best option for your needs. Call Floor Market at 0475575575 for personalized advice and installation services.

Conclusion

Thickness is a vital factor in determining the performance, comfort, and appearance of laminate flooring. Whether you need durable flooring for high-traffic areas or a budget-friendly solution for a guest room, understanding the role of thickness ensures you make an informed choice. Ready to upgrade your space with laminate flooring? Trust Floor Market to provide expert installation and exceptional service. Call us today at 0475575575 to get started!

By considering the points above, you can ensure your laminate flooring meets your expectations for years to come. Explore the possibilities and make your flooring dreams a reality with Floor Market.