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Flooring isn’t just about looks – it’s gotta be practical too. Our floors take a real beating, so they need to be tough. Homeowners have to find the sweet spot between affordable, useful, and stylish when picking new floors. There are tons of options, some more budget-friendly than others. But you don’t have to sacrifice style for durability or cost. Laminate flooring is making a big comeback this year, and it’s looking better than ever.
I chatted with Paul Henthorn, president of [COMPANY], and he reckons laminate is going to be super popular in 2026. “It’s really durable, water-resistant, and the new designs look way more realistic than the old stuff,” he told me.
If you’re looking for an attractive, long-lasting, and affordable flooring option, laminate is worth considering. It got a bit of a bad rep in recent years, but with other budget-friendly materials losing their shine, laminate is making a comeback. “It lost some attention when luxury vinyl planks got big, but with some issues in the vinyl market, more homeowners are turning to laminate again,” Henthorn explained. “The wider and longer planks, better moisture protection, and improved finishes make it a great choice for both style and performance.“
Is laminate flooring right for you?
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If you’re renovating your home and weighing up your options, laminate is definitely worth a look – especially if you’re looking for an affordable choice. In my chat with Paul Henthorn, president of [COMPANY], he said laminate typically costs $2 to $5 per square foot, with installation adding another $1 to $3 per square foot.
Laminate is also super durable, making it perfect for high-traffic areas in your home. Henthorn told me about a client who chose laminate because “it’s strong enough to handle kids and pets without wearing down quickly.” They were also worried about the chemicals used in some vinyl products, which can be a health concern.
“Another client in a modern townhouse went with laminate in a natural oak finish,” Henthorn added. “They loved how realistic it looked and the water resistance. For both clients, the big factors were durability, style, and overall value.“
What to know before installing laminate flooring
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Once you’ve decided on laminate, there are still some important things to consider. First up, your subfloor needs to be nice and level – no more than ½ inch of slope per 6 feet. It also has to be sturdy. And where you install it matters too – laminate is durable, but it’s not suited for super wet areas.
“Moisture is one of the biggest things to keep in mind. Laminate is water-resistant, but very wet spots need extra care,” Paul Henthorn told me. “Durability is also key, as some finishes hold up better in high-traffic spots.“
The design options are also worth thinking about. Henthorn said laminate works great with open floor plans, neutral color schemes, and modern or transitional styles. The newer versions have bigger planks and more natural-looking finishes that give a high-end vibe. So you can get that luxe look without blowing your budget, no matter what style you’re going for.
