Laminate flooring has been around for quite a long time. Once the darling of show homes and posh residences, it now stands in the shadow of luxury vinyl tile and engineered wood—both of which are trying a bit too hard. So, is laminate flooring still a good choice in 2025, or has it gone the way of the fax machine and MySpace?
Let’s peel back the layers and find out.
The Good Old Laminated Days
Back in the day, laminate was the flooring to have. It was reliable, easy on the eyes, and everyone wanted it in their home.
It mimicked wood without the hefty price tag, it snapped together like a dream, and it could take a beating from kids, dogs, and overenthusiastic activities in the living room. No sanding, no varnishing, no endless polishing. Just click, lock, and you’re good to go.
But as trends evolved and Pinterest exploded, laminate started to get a bit of a reputation. Some found it cheap, opting for more modern options instead. Flooring Factory have a large selection of premium laminate flooring at affordable prices.
Pros That Still Pack a Punch
Despite the shade thrown its way, laminate flooring still has plenty of positives to offer. For starters, it’s:
- Budget-friendly – Still cheaper than hardwood or engineered options, and sometimes even more affordable than other flooring types out there.
- Easy to install – DIYers love it. You don’t need a degree in engineering to figure out the click-lock system.
- Durable – Most modern laminate options are scratch-resistant and water-resistant, if not full-on waterproof.
- Aesthetic variety – The designs have come a long way. It’s no longer “fake wood” but “really convincing fake wood”. You can get oak, walnut, grey tones, rustic barn vibes—basically everything you want.
The Not-So-Glam Side
Of course, it’s not all advantages and perks. Laminate does have a few quirks—some of them charming, some not so much.
- Can sound a bit clacky – The unmistakable “tap-tap-tap” sound produced on these floors can make your hallway feel like a drum solo. A good underlay helps, but it’s still not whisper-quiet.
- Not a fan of water – Even the water-resistant ones can get stroppy if you leave standing water too long.
Laminate vs. New Flooring Options
These days, luxury vinyl plank (LVP) is laminate’s biggest rival. It’s waterproof, squishier underfoot, and sometimes even more convincing in the wood-look department. But it also costs more, which can be a dealbreaker.
Then there’s engineered wood—lovely stuff, but your wallet might go empty before you know it. And installation is not for the faint-hearted.
Laminate, by comparison, is like the kind of flooring you can always count on.
Where Laminate Still Shines
Laminate flooring is ideal for:
- Busy family homes – It can handle mess, chaos, and the occasional dog chase.
- Rental properties – Affordable and easy to replace if someone moves out and leaves behind unwanted stains.
- Loft conversions – Lightweight, looks decent, and easy to install even in awkward spaces.
- Anyone on a budget who still wants a bit of style – Being on a shoestring budget doesn’t mean you need to compromise on looks.
Is Laminate Still a Good Choice?
In a word: yes, but only if it suits your lifestyle and budget.
Laminate flooring might not be the flashiest option on the market, but it’s dependable, stylish (when chosen well), and unlikely to start peeling at the corners unless your home is a complete chaos.