When it comes to laminate flooring, one crucial aspect to consider is the thickness of the boards. With various options available on the market, striking a balance between durability and comfort is essential.
The ideal thickness for laminate flooring typically ranges from 6mm to 12mm. Thicker laminate offers higher durability and improved sound insulation, making 10mm to 12mm a popular choice for homeowners.
It’s essential to consider factors such as room usage, budget, and specific needs before deciding on the best thickness for your laminate flooring project.
Contents
Laminate Flooring Thickness Basics
Laminate flooring is available in a range of thicknesses, generally between 6mm and 12mm. The thickness is an important factor to consider when choosing the right laminate for your needs, as it affects the durability, comfort, and installation process of the floor.
Here are the common thickness levels found on the market:
- 6mm: Entry-level thickness, budget-friendly and suitable for low traffic areas.
- 8mm: Standard thickness, offers adequate durability for most residential spaces.
- 10mm: Provides better stability, suitable for high traffic or commercial spaces.
- 12mm: Offers the highest level of durability, mimics the feel of hardwood flooring.
In addition to the overall thickness, the wear layer, which is the top protective layer, should also be considered. A thicker wear layer provides better resistance against scratching, denting, and fading. The wear layer is often measured in mils, and a higher number indicates better protection.
When evaluating the thickness of laminate flooring, it is also essential to consider the type of subfloor and underlayment being used. These materials have a direct impact on the overall comfort and effectiveness of the flooring installation. A thicker underlayment can provide additional insulation and sound-reduction benefits, while also leveling out any imperfections in the subfloor.
Lastly, thicker laminate flooring often provides a more realistic wood-like feel when walking on it, as there is less flex and more stability. However, it is important to weigh the increased cost and potential installation difficulties against the benefits of a thicker laminate floor.
Thickness Options
In this section, we’ll examine the different thickness options available for laminate flooring:
6mm to 7mm
Laminate flooring in the 6mm to 7mm thickness range is typically the most affordable option. It is suitable for low-traffic areas or temporary installations. Some benefits of this thickness range include:
- Easier installation due to its lightweight nature
- A more budget-friendly option
- Less material, making it more eco-friendly
However, it is worth noting that thinner flooring may not provide the same level of durability and wear resistance as thicker options.
8mm to 10mm
The 8mm to 10mm thickness range is a popular choice for both residential and commercial applications. This range offers:
- Improved durability and wear resistance
- Greater sound insulation
- A more realistic feel underfoot compared to thinner options
8mm laminate flooring has been found to have a 25% longer lifespan than 7mm options.
12mm to 14mm
For the highest level of durability and comfort, 12mm to 14mm thick laminate flooring is ideal. Some advantages of this thickness range include:
- Superior sound and thermal insulation
- Increased resistance to impacts and scratches
- A more solid, hardwood-like feel
These advantages make 12mm to 14mm thickness flooring preferable for high-traffic areas and commercial spaces.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Thickness
When choosing the best thickness for laminate flooring, several factors come into play. In this section, we discuss the importance of subfloor type, installation method, room usage, and budget in determining the right thickness for your needs.
Subfloor Type
The type of subfloor you have can significantly impact the thickness of laminate flooring you need. A smooth, even subfloor may allow for a thinner laminate, while an uneven subfloor may require a thicker laminate to help mask imperfections. Some common subfloor types include:
- Concrete
- Plywood
- Particleboard
For example, a 7mm to 8mm thick laminate is generally suitable for most subfloors, while a thicker 10mm to 12mm laminate may be needed for uneven surfaces.
Installation Method
The installation method you choose can also affect the optimal thickness of your laminate flooring. There are two popular methods:
- Glueless floating floor installation
- Glued installation
In glueless floating floor installations, thicker laminates tend to offer better stability and performance. In contrast, glued installations can often accommodate thinner laminates.
Room Usage
The usage of the room in which the laminate flooring will be installed is another essential factor to consider. High-traffic areas such as living rooms or hallways may require thicker flooring for increased durability, while low-traffic areas like bedrooms can often use thinner laminates. For example:
| Room Type | Recommended Laminate Thickness |
|---|---|
| High-traffic areas | 10mm to 12mm |
| Low-traffic areas | 7mm to 8mm |
Budget
Lastly, your budget plays an important role in determining the thickness of your laminate flooring. Thicker laminates tend to be more expensive but can offer improved performance and durability. It’s essential to balance the necessary thickness with your budget to find the most cost-effective solution for your needs.
Additional Flooring Components
In addition to the laminate flooring thickness, it’s essential to consider other components that contribute to the overall quality and durability of the flooring system. In this section, we’ll discuss two critical elements: underlayment and moisture barrier.
Underlayment
Underlayment is a thin layer of material placed beneath the laminate floor, which serves several purposes:
- Provides cushioning for a comfortable feel underfoot
- Helps to reduce noise transmission
- Improves insulation and thermal properties
- Compensates for minor subfloor imperfections
Underlayment materials vary in thickness, typically ranging from 2mm to 5mm. Thicker underlayment can provide additional cushioning and noise reduction but may also increase the overall flooring height. When selecting underlayment thickness, consider the specific needs of your space and the quality of your subfloor.
Moisture Barrier
A moisture barrier is an essential component for installations over concrete subfloors or in areas prone to humidity and moisture, such as basements, kitchens, and bathrooms. The moisture barrier helps to:
- Prevent moisture from damaging the laminate floor
- Protect against mold and mildew growth
- Extend the lifespan of the flooring system
Moisture barriers can come in the form of a separate layer, typically made from plastic or specialized fabrics, or as an integrated component of the underlayment. When choosing a moisture barrier, consider factors such as installation type, subfloor condition, and room usage.
Conclusion
In summary, the ideal laminate flooring thickness can largely depend on individual preferences and specific installation requirements. However, it is generally recommended to choose a thickness between 10mm and 12mm for optimum durability, stability, and sound insulation.
While 8mm thick laminate flooring remains a popular option due to its affordability, it may not provide the desired level of performance in high-traffic areas or over uneven subfloors. On the other hand, laminates thicker than 12mm can be quite costly and may not offer significant added benefits.