Laminate Flooring Solutions: Selection, Installation, and Sizing

Laminate flooring has become an incredibly popular choice for homeowners across the Atlanta metropolitan area, and for good reason. It offers the stunning aesthetic of high-end materials like hardwood or natural stone, but at a more accessible price point and with superior durability. However, with so many options available on the market, the process of choosing the right laminate for your home can feel overwhelming. At Select Floors, we believe that finding the perfect floor should be a pleasure, not a chore. With over two decades of experience, we’ve developed a step-by-step approach to help you navigate the world of laminate flooring solutions, covering everything from key selection factors to the final steps of professional installation and precise measurement.

The Selection Process: Finding the Right Laminate for You

The first and most important step is to understand the key features of laminate flooring and how they relate to your specific needs and lifestyle.

1. AC Rating: A Measure of Durability

The AC (Abrasion Class) rating is a crucial factor that tells you how durable and resistant to wear your laminate flooring will be. The scale ranges from AC1 to AC5, with higher numbers indicating greater durability.

• AC1 (Moderate Residential): Suitable for areas with very light foot traffic, such as a bedroom or closet.
• AC2 (General Residential): Good for general residential use, like living rooms and dining rooms.
• AC3 (Heavy Residential): The most common rating for residential use, perfect for high-traffic areas like entryways and kitchens. It can also be used in light commercial spaces.
• AC4 (General Commercial): Designed for commercial use with moderate foot traffic, such as small offices or boutiques.
• AC5 (Heavy Commercial): The most durable rating, built for heavy commercial traffic in public buildings or large retail spaces.

For most Atlanta-area homeowners, an AC3 rating is the ideal choice as it provides a perfect balance of durability and value for a busy family.

2. Core Type: HDF vs. Waterproof

The core of laminate flooring is what gives it its stability and moisture resistance.

• HDF (High-Density Fiberboard): This is the traditional core for laminate flooring. It is made from compressed wood fibers, making it strong and stable. However, an HDF core is not waterproof and will swell and warp if exposed to excessive moisture. It’s a great, cost-effective option for living rooms, bedrooms, and dining rooms.
• Waterproof Core: A new generation of laminate features a waterproof core, often made of a composite material that is completely impervious to water. This is a game-changer for homeowners who want the look of laminate in high-moisture areas like bathrooms, kitchens, and basements.

3. Style: Finding Your Perfect Aesthetic

Laminate floors have evolved to replicate virtually any natural material with stunning realism.

• Wood-Look: Choose from a wide range of colors and species, from a light, airy oak to a rich, dark walnut. Embossed-in-register (EIR) technology aligns the surface texture with the visual grain, creating a truly authentic feel.
• Stone-Look: Laminate can mimic the look of marble, slate, and travertine, offering the elegance of natural stone without the high cost and intensive maintenance.
• Tile-Look: For a classic look, tile-style laminate can replicate the look of ceramic or porcelain tile with the added benefits of laminate.

Practical Advice: The Next Steps for a Perfect Floor

Once you have a general idea of the type of laminate you want, the next steps are crucial to ensuring a flawless installation.

1. Professional On-Site Consultation

Before you buy, it’s essential to have a professional from Select Floors visit your home for an on-site consultation. This step is a game-changer for a seamless project. Our experts can:

• Assess the Room: They will evaluate the subfloor, identify any potential moisture issues, and assess the room’s overall condition to recommend the best product.
• Provide Samples: You can see and feel different laminate samples in your home’s natural lighting, which can look very different from a showroom.

2. Precise Measurement

This is where a professional’s expertise is invaluable. An accurate measurement ensures that you order the right amount of material, preventing both costly over-ordering and the frustration of running out of product mid-project. Our team will take precise measurements and account for waste, ensuring a perfect fit.

 3. Professional Installation

While many people attempt a DIY installation for laminate, a professional installation provides peace of mind and a flawless finish. Our skilled craftsmen at Select Floors will:

• Properly Prepare the Subfloor: They will ensure the subfloor is clean, level, and dry.
• Install the Underlayment: A high-quality underlayment is crucial for noise reduction and moisture protection.
• Expertly Install the Planks: Our installers use the right tools and techniques to ensure the planks are securely locked and the floor is properly acclimated, preventing issues down the line.

At Select Floors, we are committed to providing a seamless experience from start to finish. Our team of skilled professionals will guide you through every step of the process, ensuring that your new laminate flooring exceeds your expectations.

With over two decades of experience in the flooring industry, Select Floors has established a strong reputation for quality craftsmanship and exceptional customer service. Our team of skilled professionals brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to every project. We have been featured in the Best of Atlanta magazine. As a preferred vendor for CBUSA and the Atlanta Greater Home Builders Association, we are committed to delivering top-notch flooring solutions that exceed your expectations. Contact us or visit our showroom location in Marietta, GA.