How Laminate is Made
National Design Mart’s gorgeous laminate flooring mimics the look and texture of real hardwood without the hassle and high cost. Constructed with three layers, including a fiberboard base, an image layer replicating wood or stone, and a protective transparent coating, laminate stands out for its remarkable durability. Thanks to advancements in technology, you can now enjoy premium laminate that rivals the elegance of hardwood and stone, all at a fraction of the cost. You're guaranteed to love the results when you choose high-quality laminate from trusted retailers like National Design Mart.
Laminate vs. Hardwood Flooring
“Should I choose hardwood floors or laminate?” is one of the most common questions customers ask our expert designers. The answer depends on your project. Both flooring options can be an excellent choice, and you know you’ll be getting the best at National Design Mart. The key to your decision is in your intended application. Hardwood flooring is made of 100% wood. This makes it more expensive than laminate and much more difficult to install. Laminate flooring installation is DIY-friendly, while hardwood installation requires professional aid. If not pre-finished, hardwood will also require sanding and finishing — usually by professionals — after the installation. A hardwood purchase is typically considered an investment since the higher-cost material can last a lifetime but requires regular upkeep and refinishing. High-quality laminate will last a long time, but refinishing is not an option. Laminate is a great flooring option for pets and kids since its wear layer is super resistant to claw scratches, spills, and accidents.
For this reason, laminate is also recommended for high-traffic areas. Hardwood can also be highly scratch-resistant but varies greatly from species to species. With woodgrain laminate flooring, every “species” color choice will be equally sturdy.
Laminate
- Man-made photo printed on fiberboard
- Lower cost
- DIY installation
- Long-lasting, with eventual replacement
- Pet- and kid-friendly
Hardwood
- Natural wood material
- Higher cost
- Requires professional installation
- Can last a lifetime with regular refinishing
- Some species are easily scratched
Laminate inspiration
Explore our gallery of images featuring our extensive range of high-quality laminate flooring products, each designed to enhance the style and resilience of your home.
Laminate Care & Maintenance
Keep your new laminate looking and performing its best with proper care and maintenance.
Laminate Installation
Trust our team of professionals to handle your laminate installation with expertise, ensuring a stress-free experience from start to finish.
Visualize new floors in your space
Explore our flooring options in your space before making a commitment with our innovative flooring visualizer tool. To begin, simply upload a photo of your space.
Shop From The Best Laminate Brands
We carry the most trusted brands in the industry to ensure durability and style for your home.