Does wood look laminate flooring give my surfaces that “grainy” appearance?

Does wood look laminate flooring give my surfaces that “grainy” appearance?


Yes, and thanks to modern technology like digital photography, micro beveling, and deep embossing, it's often tricky for flooring experts to tell the difference between that and the real thing. Laminate floors, which are also available in stone and tile mimics, are also affordable, durable, low maintenance and have an uncomplicated installation. If you’re considering new flooring, this may be the right choice for you.

What is laminate flooring?


This is a multi-layered product with backing, core, design layer, and a top clear ultra-strong aluminum oxide coating that protects the floor from scratches and scuffs. It is now also available in a waterproof laminate flooring version with a unique construction to keep spills from absorbing, staining, peeling, and rippling. Now laminate can be installed in any room, including the kitchen and bath, where it was once avoided due to those room's high moisture levels. Just be sure to specify whether you want the original or waterproof version.

Is it durable?


Yes, and you want to be sure to get the right thickness level for your installation; for example, if you put a too-thin product in a busy room like the kitchen, that will affect performance. The way to check is to ask about the AC Rating (Abrasion Criteria), a one-to-five numbering system that determines the product's level of strength. For example, AC1 is meant for low-traffic rooms, such as guest rooms. AC3 and AC4 are appropriate for moderate to high foot trafficked rooms and even some light commercial installations. AC5 (and you might even see AC6) levels are for heavy commercial use.

All this product needs is daily sweeping and periodic mopping. Installation can also be an uncomplicated floating floor where the pieces click together, mat, and then hover over the subfloor with no nails or glue.

To learn more about laminate flooring or any of our other products, visit the Purdy Flooring and Design showroom in Buford, GA, especially if you live in or near Buford, Dacula, Braselton, Flowery Branch, Gainesville, Suwanee, and Cumming. You'll be glad you came in because you'll walk out with a free laminate flooring quote and knowledge of our other services, including heated floors, kitchen & bath remodeling, granite fabrication, and more.