Types of laminate flooring – what to know before you buy
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Choosing the right laminate flooring sounds easy – until you realise how many types, finishes and options there are.
This guide breaks it down in plain English so you can pick the best laminate flooring for your home, based on what actually matters – looks, wear, cost, and where it’s going.
You’ll also find tips on which features are worth paying extra for, what might cause regrets later, and what to avoid in high-traffic or high-moisture areas.
If you haven’t already, read our step-by-step guide on how to lay laminate flooring.
What is laminate flooring made from?
Laminate flooring is made up of several layers:
- A core layer (usually high-density fibreboard)
- A design layer (a printed image that looks like wood, tile or stone)
- A wear layer (a tough, transparent coating that resists scratches and wear)
It’s not real wood, but it’s designed to mimic it closely. Some laminates even have textured surfaces to feel more like the real thing.
The result? A durable, budget-friendly option that looks good and holds up well if you choose the right type.
Quick guide: best laminate for each room
| Room | Good Choice | Why it works |
|---|---|---|
| Kitchen | Waterproof, AC4, textured | Moisture and mess resistant |
| Living room | DPL, AC3+, any finish | Balance of style and durability |
| Hallway | HPL, AC4, embossed or textured | Can handle heavy foot traffic |
| Bedroom | DPL, AC2–AC3, matte or smooth | Comfort and quiet underfoot |
| Bathroom | Specialist waterproof laminate only | Standard laminate will warp |
Laminate types explained
There are two main ways laminate flooring is manufactured. The process affects its durability – and its price tag.
1. High-pressure laminate (HPL)
HPL is the tougher, more hard-wearing option. It’s made by fusing multiple layers of material under very high pressure, making it thicker and more resistant to scratches, heat and moisture.
- Great for: Hallways, kitchens, homes with pets or children
- Downside: Costs more
2. Direct-pressure laminate (DPL)
DPL is the more common and budget-friendly option. It’s made with fewer layers and less pressure, so it’s not quite as tough as HPL, but still a solid choice for everyday use.
- Great for: Bedrooms, living rooms, low-traffic areas
- Downside: Not ideal for rough use or damp rooms
Different laminate finishes
Laminate comes in different looks and textures. Here’s how to choose one that suits your room (and your lifestyle).
Textured or embossed
Feels more like real wood or stone. Better at hiding dust and scratches.
- Best for: High-traffic areas
Glossy
Shiny, polished surface that reflects light. Looks clean but shows marks easily.
- Best for: Low-traffic rooms or showy spaces
Matte
More natural, soft-looking finish. Easy to keep clean and less slippery.
- Best for: Most rooms – especially practical homes
Patina or aged effect
Has a distressed, vintage-style finish. Great if you want a bit of character.
- Best for: Rustic, farmhouse or eclectic interiors
What to check before you buy
AC rating (durability)
This tells you how tough the surface is. Higher numbers = better wear resistance.
- AC1–AC2: Light use (e.g. bedrooms)
- AC3: General home use
- AC4–AC5: Heavy use (e.g. hallways, kitchens)
Thickness
Laminate usually ranges from 6mm to 12mm thick. Thicker boards:
- Feel more solid underfoot
- Absorb more sound
- Help smooth out uneven subfloors
Tip: Go for at least 8mm unless it’s a very low-traffic space.
Waterproof rating
Most laminate is not waterproof unless it says so clearly. Don’t risk it in bathrooms or wet areas unless it’s designed for those spaces.
Look for:
- Water-resistant laminate (can handle the odd spill)
- Waterproof laminate (safe for bathrooms, utility rooms, kitchens)
Installation tips
Some laminate comes with a click-lock system, which makes it easier to install yourself. Others may require glue or nails.
- Click-lock: Ideal for DIYers
- Glue-down or nail-down: Better left to the pros
Make sure you check the instructions. Even the best flooring won’t perform well if it’s badly fitted.
Cleaning and maintenance
Most laminate flooring is fairly low-maintenance. Just sweep or vacuum regularly and use a damp (not wet) mop when needed.
Avoid:
- Soaking the floor
- Steam mops
- Abrasive cleaners
Look for laminates with good stain and scratch resistance if you have pets, kids, or a tendency to spill things.
Final thoughts
Laminate flooring is a smart, stylish, and affordable choice for most homes – but not all laminate is created equal.
If you want something tough that lasts, invest in a decent thickness, a good AC rating, and something water-resistant if needed. Don’t be swayed by just looks alone – especially in high-use areas like kitchens and hallways.
On a budget? Go for a simpler DPL laminate in a bedroom or office and save your money for better underlay or professional fitting.
