Solid Hardwood, Engineered and Laminate Flooring - Alloc vs. QuickStep.

Hi guys, I'm looking into getting laminate floors for what is pretty much an entire house. I'm primaryily looking at Alloc and QuickStep due to ease of installation. I have the following questions:

1. I've read many good things about the QuickStep laminates, but not very much about the Alloc ones. Any comments on their quality (resemblance to real wood, etc)?

2. Alloc Orginal can supposedly be disassembled and reassembled an infinite number of times. I can't find any information on the QuickStep homepage as to if that is recommended or not. This is a factor for replacing any potentially damaged tiles due to water (in bathroom/kitchen).

3. Alloc Orginal has a built in underlayer, whereas Quickstep has a 2-in-1 underlayer. Any comments on how well these underlayers muffle sound, etc? Both companies sell another "quiet" underlayer. Any comments on those?

Thanks for your help!

Quickstep can be installed up to 3 times according to their warrantee and they too have an acoustical pad backed product available.

Acoustic backers do provide a more solid sounding floor and will reduce the amount of noise transmitted to the room below if there is one.

Thanks AzFred, for the quick reply. Of course, deciding between the two is still no easier than before. Have you had any personal experience with the build quality of those two brands?

You need to consider the value of your home and the lifestyle that pleases you. Choose the color and texture that will "work" best best in your home with your decor. The acoustic backer will add cost to your floor and may well be worth it.

Yes, I've worked with both and no I don't endorse any brands on the Internet forums.