What Do Different Thicknesses of Laminate Flooring Mean?

Layers

• Unlike hardwood flooring, laminate flooring is created through a manufacturing process that combines four basic layers into one finished product. The layers are the backing layer, substrate, decorative layer, and wear layer. When the discussion turns to the various thicknesses of laminate flooring, changes most often involve only the substrate, or core of the product.

Thin

• The thinnest variety of laminate available is generally 6mm, which is about one-quarter of an inch in thickness. This thinner flooring costs less upfront to purchase, but it can be expected to be less durable and will have to be replaced sooner. This is not to say that a thinner choice in laminate flooring is a poor choice. In lightly traveled areas like a bedroom it might work fine, though it would be less-than-ideal for more heavily used living room or house entry areas.

Thick

• On the opposite end of the spectrum, laminate pieces run to about 12mm in thickness, which is about half an inch. You will certainly spend more money on thicker flooring but will likely notice a distinct rise in durability. By increasing the thickness of the substrate layer of high-density fiberboard, a manufacturer can offer a product that holds up better under a load and is less likely to become dented or damaged by everyday use.

Considerations

• The decision on whether to choose laminate flooring or real hardwood, or even what type of laminate flooring to choose should you decide to go that route, must be based on many variables, one of which is thickness of the planks. If your household has rambunctious young children, that might be cause enough to spend more money and choose a thicker flooring. If the only occupants are an elderly, sedentary couple, thinner laminate might work perfectly.