Laminate Flooring FAQs
Laminate flooring is popular for good reason — it looks great, installs easily, and lasts for years. But it also comes with some real limitations that homeowners should know upfront. Here are the most common questions we hear.
Can laminate flooring get wet?
Laminate is water-resistant at the surface, but not waterproof. Minor spills wiped up promptly are fine. The problem comes when water sits on the floor, seeps into the seams, or gets underneath — the HDF core will absorb moisture, swell, and buckle. If you need true waterproof flooring, look at waterproof-core laminate (some brands offer this) or consider LVP instead.
Can I install laminate in a bathroom?
Standard laminate is not recommended for bathrooms due to the constant moisture exposure. Some newer waterproof laminate products (with sealed edges and WPC cores) can work in bathrooms, but verify the manufacturer’s installation guidelines before proceeding. LVP is the safer, more proven option for bathrooms.
Can laminate flooring be refinished?
No. Unlike hardwood, laminate cannot be sanded and refinished. The surface is a photographic print protected by a thin wear layer — once that layer is gone, you can’t restore it by sanding. When laminate is significantly damaged or worn, the only fix is plank replacement or full floor replacement.
How long does laminate flooring last?
Quality laminate typically lasts 15–25 years in residential settings. Higher AC ratings, proper installation, and good maintenance push that toward the longer end. Budget laminate in high-traffic areas may show significant wear in under 10 years.
Is laminate flooring good for dogs?
It depends on the dog (and the laminate). Scratches from dog nails are a real concern, especially with lower AC-rated products. Choose AC4 or higher if you have large dogs. The bigger concern is accidents — urine left on laminate seams will cause damage over time. Consider waterproof-core laminate or LVP if your dog has accidents frequently.
Do I need underlayment under laminate?
Yes, in most cases. Underlayment adds cushioning, reduces noise, and provides a moisture barrier. Many laminate products come with underlayment pre-attached — if yours does, don’t add another layer on top (too much cushion causes the click joints to flex and fail). If yours doesn’t have pre-attached underlayment, install a separate foam or combination moisture-barrier underlayment.
Why does my laminate floor sound hollow?
A hollow sound usually means the subfloor isn’t flat, the underlayment is too thick, or planks aren’t fully interlocked. Check for high and low spots in your subfloor — any variation over 3/16 inch per 10 feet needs to be corrected. Too much underlayment can also cause excessive flex in the click joints, creating a hollow sound and potentially causing joint failure over time.
Can I install laminate over radiant heat?
Yes, but check the manufacturer’s specifications. Many laminate products are rated for radiant heat systems, but water temperatures should generally not exceed 85°F at the floor surface. Thicker planks (10mm+) tend to perform better over radiant heat as they transmit warmth more evenly.