Why We Won't Install Laminate (And What We Recommend Instead)

Homeowners ask us constantly: “Is laminate flooring worth it?” The short answer is no, not anymore. Ten years ago, laminate was the clear budget champion for wood-look flooring. Today, better alternatives exist at similar price points.

We stopped installing laminate flooring in most homes two years ago. The reasons are simple: water damage, limited repair options, and better alternatives that cost nearly the same. Luxury vinyl plank has taken over the budget-friendly category, while engineered hardwood dominates the mid-range market.

The Problems with Laminate Flooring

Laminate flooring creates several issues that we see repeatedly in customer homes. These problems make it a poor long-term investment for most homeowners.

Water Damage Is Permanent

Laminate’s biggest weakness is its fiberboard core. This pressed wood material swells when it gets wet. Once swelling occurs, you cannot fix it. The damaged planks must be replaced entirely.

We see this problem most often in kitchens, bathrooms, and basements. A leaking dishwasher can destroy hundreds of square feet of laminate. Pet accidents create permanent damage. Even high humidity can cause edge swelling over time.

What we see in the field: “The fiberboard core swells when it gets wet, and there is no fixing that. We get calls every month from homeowners with water-damaged laminate that needs complete replacement,” says Crystal Zurn of Zurn’s Flooring LLC.

Limited Repair Options

Laminate planks interlock in a floating system. Replacing a single damaged plank requires removing every plank from the damaged spot to the nearest wall. This process is time-consuming and expensive.

Scratches and dents cannot be sanded and refinished like hardwood. Deep damage means replacement. Surface scratches are permanent on most laminate products.

Hollow Sound and Feel

Laminate flooring sounds hollow underfoot. The thin construction and floating installation create a drumming effect when you walk. This sound bothers many homeowners, especially compared to the solid feel of hardwood or luxury vinyl.

What We Recommend Instead

Three alternatives work better than laminate for most homes. Each option solves laminate’s main problems while offering similar or better value.

Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP): Our Top Choice

LVP has replaced laminate as our go-to budget recommendation. The material costs slightly more than laminate but offers significant advantages.

Key Benefits:

• 100% waterproof core
• Better underfoot feel
• Easier repairs (individual planks replace without disturbing others)
• Pet-friendly surface
• Realistic wood appearance

Cost Comparison:

Quality matters significantly with LVP. Cheap versions curl at the edges within two years. Premium LVP at $4+ per square foot performs well for 15-25 years.

Pro tip: “LVP is what we install more than anything else right now. Customers love the look, the price point, and the waterproof factor. The quality gap between budget and premium LVP is huge,” notes Crystal Zurn.

Engineered Hardwood: Best Long-Term Value

Engineered hardwood costs more upfront but offers superior durability and resale value. The plywood core resists moisture better than solid hardwood while maintaining the authentic wood appearance.

Why It Works:

• Handles temperature and humidity swings better than solid hardwood
• Can be installed over concrete subfloors
• Adds more resale value than laminate or LVP
• Can be refinished 1-3 times depending on veneer thickness

Engineered hardwood works well in living rooms, bedrooms, and dining areas. Avoid kitchens and bathrooms where water exposure is likely.

Ceramic or Porcelain Tile: Ultimate Durability

Tile costs more to install but lasts 25-75 years with minimal maintenance. Porcelain tile offers complete water resistance and works in any room.

Installation labor drives tile costs higher than other options. Material might cost $3 per square foot, but professional installation runs $10-15 per square foot.

When Laminate Still Makes Sense

Laminate works in specific situations despite its limitations. These scenarios are becoming rare but still exist.

Extremely Tight Budgets

If your budget is under $4 per square foot installed, laminate might be your only option for wood-look flooring. Choose the highest quality you can afford and plan for replacement in 10-15 years.

Temporary Installations

Rental properties or homes you plan to renovate in a few years can use laminate as a temporary solution. The low cost makes it acceptable for short-term use.

Dry, Climate-Controlled Spaces

Bedrooms and living rooms in dry climates with good HVAC systems pose less risk for laminate. Avoid basements, bathrooms, kitchens, and mudrooms entirely.

Installation and Maintenance Considerations

Professional installation costs similar for laminate and LVP. Both use floating installation methods that take 1-2 days for most homes.

Maintenance differs significantly between options:

Laminate: Use dry or barely damp mops only. Avoid steam cleaners and wet mopping. Replace damaged planks immediately to prevent moisture infiltration.

LVP: Clean with standard floor cleaners. Steam cleaning is safe. Water spills cause no damage.

Engineered Hardwood: Use wood floor cleaners. Clean spills immediately. Refinish every 10-15 years as needed.

Bottom Line

Laminate flooring is no longer worth it for most homeowners. LVP offers better performance at similar costs, while engineered hardwood provides superior long-term value. The waterproof advantage of LVP alone makes it the better choice in kitchens, bathrooms, and homes with pets or children.

Choose laminate only if your budget is extremely tight and you’re installing in dry, low-traffic areas. Otherwise, invest in LVP for budget-friendly projects or engineered hardwood for long-term value. Your floors will perform better and last longer with either alternative.