Solid Hardwood, Engineered and Laminate Flooring - flooring that will hold up tp high traffic

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04-16-01, 09:41 PM
i am so confused. my research for a diy (i've successfully laid ceramic tile 3x so capable of some challenge)flooring in den and hallways has been a challenge due to so many choices. i have been leaning toward glueless laminate or durable vinyl wood-look planks. i am pulling up light carpet that we had installed 3 years ago-too much traffic from our children and neighbors. i don't want to make another bad decision. we want a dark cherry look. what brands are best quality for your money. is there a certain mm of thickness to laminate that determines quality.

the vinyl planks intrigued because i saw it being installed in a very expensive dental office and i knew the dentist would only use high quality durable products-it was roppe brand.


AzFred
04-17-01, 09:38 PM
To get Cherry or Maribow (dark reddish colors) you will be limited to the better brands Formica, Wilsonart, BHK-Uniclic as the low price guys have a limited number of colors in most cases. These are all 8mm thick although thickness alone has little to do with durability. Look for a product with more than 15 year warrantee for wear and more than tabor 10,000 test results. Vinyl may not exceed a tabor test of 500 but an added wear surface may help that along, a little

04-17-01, 10:33 PM
thank you for quick response. my search today caused me to lean more toward the engineered flooring for color, durability and warranty. i found a glueless one today. what are your thoughts there. i also liked the fact that it can be refinished several times.


twelvepole
04-20-01, 10:03 PM
If you are going to install a floor covering in your home and you want to add value, then you need to consider hardwood. As the National Hardwood Organization says, "There is no substitute for solid hardwood floors." Consumers are victims of marketing. Do not fall victim to what your doctor or anyone else uses in their homes or offices. Solid hardwood will last 200 or more years. Engineered hardwood will last 30+ years. Vinyl and laminates will last 15+ years at best. Do some more research.