Is Laminate Flooring a Good Choice for My Home?

One of the main reasons laminate is so popular is its durability and low-maintenance nature. It’s resistant to scratches, dents, and stains, making it a smart option for high-traffic areas and busy households. The protective wear layer provides extra defence against everyday damage. 
Like any flooring, regular care is key. Fortunately, cleaning laminate flooring.

How to clean laminate flooring:  
– Wipe spills promptly with a dry or lightly damp cloth. 
– Sweep or vacuum regularly to prevent grit from scratching the surface. 
– Avoid harsh chemicals when cleaning, a damp cloth or mop is sufficient. 
– Don’t use steam mops and ensure your mop is of high quality.
– Shake out the mop each time to remove any debris which could scratch the flooring on the next clean. 
 
With consistent maintenance, your laminate flooring will look beautiful and last for many years. You can also care for your flooring in other ways, by encouraging the removal of shoes at the door to minimise dirt and grit coming inside, as well as being careful when moving furniture (don’t drag!) and using felt pads under furniture. Read our comprehensive Hard Flooring Care Guide to learn everything you might need to know.

If you share your home with furry friends, laminate can be an excellent choice. Concerns about scratching, spills, and pet hair are valid, but laminate’s protective wear layer helps safeguard against paw marks and scuffs. Keeping nails trimmed will also extend the life of your floor. 
 
Many laminate products are water-resistant, so minor spills or accidents can be cleaned up easily, though quick action is always best. For added peace of mind, ask your local Flooring Xtra store about waterproof laminate options, as it is essential to have all the information you need to make an informed decision. Regular sweeping or vacuuming will keep pet hair under control and your floors looking spotless.

Laminate flooring comes in a wide range of colours and finishes, from light to dark timbers, subtle grains to bold character-filled patterns. The colours also vary in warmth, from cool grey laminate flooring to warmer brown and red tones. Popular styles of timber laminate flooring include oak tones as well as iconic Australian species such as spotted gum and blackbutt. 
 
Choosing the right look is easier than ever with our Floor Visualiser—simply upload a photo of your room and see how different styles transform the space. You can also pick up samples in-store and get tailored advice from the experts at your local Flooring Xtra.

Just like traditional timber flooring, laminate boards are available in a variety of widths and patterns. 

Board Widths: Narrow boards bring a timeless, classic feel and can make smaller rooms appear longer. Wide boards, on the other hand, create a contemporary, streamlined look that works beautifully in larger, open-plan spaces. 

Patterns: Chevron and herringbone laminate add instant sophistication, turning the floor into a design feature. While herringbone planks meet at 90-degree angles in a staggered zig-zag, chevron planks are cut on an angle to create a seamless V-shape. Both add elegance and visual interest to a room.

Some laminate products are water-resistant, making them suitable for areas like kitchens, laundries, and open-plan living zones where spills are more likely. This is particularly valuable for families with children or pets, or homes near the beach and holiday homes. Always check with your local Flooring Xtra team to ensure the product you choose is the right fit for your home’s needs.

Laminate flooring combines the natural beauty of timber with durability, easy maintenance, and affordability, making it a strong contender for many Australian homes. With a wide variety of colours, finishes, board widths, and even patterned styles, there’s an option to suit every interior. Whether you’re renovating, building new, or refreshing a family home, laminate is a practical yet stylish investment that can stand up to daily life while enhancing the look and feel of your space

Is laminate flooring professionally installed? 
Flooring is best installed by professionals who are highly skilled and experienced. They have all the necessary equipment and are there to troubleshoot any issues that may arise. 

Is laminate flooring resilient? 
Laminate flooring has a high scratch resistance due to its melamine and aluminium oxide wear layer finishes. It is a good option for busy homes and homes with pets. 

Where can I find engineered timber flooring in Australia? 
Flooring Xtra have store across Australia and are ready to help with your project! To find your closest store, head to our store finder.