Will Laminate Floors Go The Distance?

Homeowners throughout the country who are looking for a stylish, durable, and budget-friendly flooring option will love the look of laminate. 

 

Before making your purchase, you may be wondering to yourself: how long does laminate flooring last? 

 

The laminate flooring lifespan depends on many factors and we’ll explain each one and why Laminate flooring in Havertown and Malvern, PA from Havertown Carpet Co. is a wonderful choice. 

 

What is the Average Laminate Flooring Lifespan?

On average, laminate flooring lasts between 15 to 25 years. However, high-quality laminate that is properly installed and well-maintained can exceed 30 years. Lower-end laminate, on the other hand, may show wear after 10 to 15 years.

 

Several factors influence how long your laminate flooring will last, including:

 

• Quality of the Material
• Installation Process
• Maintenance & Cleaning
• Foot Traffic & Usage 

 

Understanding these factors can help you maximize the laminate floor lifespan in your home.

 

Factors That Affect Laminate Flooring Lifespan

 

1. Quality of Laminate Flooring

Not all laminate flooring is created equal. The laminate flooring lifespan is largely determined by its quality. Laminate flooring comes in different AC (Abrasion Criteria) ratings, which indicate durability:

 

• AC1 – Light Residential Use: Best for low-traffic areas like bedrooms (10-15 years).
• AC2 – Moderate Residential Use: Suitable for living rooms and dining areas (15-20 years).
• AC3 – Heavy Residential Use: Ideal for high-traffic areas, such as hallways and kitchens (20-25 years).
• AC4 – Light Commercial Use: Used in residential and commercial spaces with high foot traffic (25+ years).
• AC5 – Heavy Commercial Use: Designed for busy commercial settings and may last over 30 years.

 

For homes with pets, children, or high foot traffic, choosing at least an AC3-rated laminate ensures a longer laminate floor lifespan.

 

2. Installation Quality

Even the best laminate flooring won’t last if it’s poorly installed. A few key installation factors affect durability:

 

• Proper Subfloor Preparation – An uneven subfloor can cause laminate planks to shift, leading to damage over time.
• Correct Underlayment – A good underlayment provides support, reduces noise, and helps with moisture resistance.
• Expansion Gaps – Leaving space around the edges prevents warping from temperature changes.

 

For a long-lasting laminate flooring lifespan, professional installation is highly recommended.

 

3. Maintenance & Cleaning Habits

Proper care can significantly extend the laminate floor lifespan. Here’s how to keep your floors looking new for years:

 

• Sweep or vacuum regularly to prevent dirt buildup that can cause scratches.
• Use a damp (not wet) mop with a laminate-safe cleaner—excessive water can cause warping.
• Place felt pads under furniture to prevent dents and scratches.
• Clean up spills immediately to avoid moisture damage.
• Avoid harsh chemicals and steam mops, which can break down the laminate’s protective layer.

 

A well-maintained laminate floor can easily exceed 25 years in lifespan.

 

4. Foot Traffic & Everyday Wear

High-traffic areas like hallways, entryways, and kitchens experience more wear than bedrooms or home offices. If you expect heavy foot traffic, choosing a thicker, higher-quality laminate (12mm or more) helps maintain durability.

 

Pet claws, moving furniture, and high heels can also shorten the laminate flooring lifespan if proper precautions aren’t taken. Using area rugs and enforcing a "no shoes indoors" rule can help protect your floors.

 

Signs It’s Time to Replace Your Laminate Flooring

Even with excellent care, no flooring lasts forever. Here are some signs that your laminate flooring lifespan is nearing its end:

 

• Excessive Scratches & Wear Marks – Minor scratches are normal, but deep wear patterns that expose the core layer signal replacement time.
• Peeling or Delamination – If the top protective layer starts to peel, the floor may become vulnerable to further damage.
• Warping or Bubbling – Water damage can cause the planks to swell or lift, leading to structural issues.
• Loose or Separating Planks – If the planks no longer fit together snugly, it could mean the flooring has expanded or contracted beyond repair.

 

If your laminate flooring is showing multiple signs of aging, it may be time to consider replacement.

 

Extending the Lifespan of Your Laminate Flooring

Want to make the most of your laminate floors? Follow these tips:

 

• Invest in high-quality laminate (AC3 or higher).
• Use rugs or mats in high-traffic areas.
• Clean with laminate-safe products and avoid excessive moisture.
• Lift furniture instead of dragging it to prevent scratches.
• Control humidity levels in your home to prevent warping.

 

With proper care, you can extend the laminate flooring lifespan and keep your floors looking great for decades.

 

Need Help Choosing the Right Laminate Flooring for Your Home? 

If you're considering new laminate flooring, trust the experts at Havertown Carpet in Havertown and Malvern, PA! Since 2012, we've been helping families in the Greater Philadelphia area, including Delaware, Montgomery, and Chester Counties, as well as parts of Bucks and Berks Counties, find the perfect flooring for their homes.

 

Call us today or visit our showrooms to explore our wide selection of high-quality laminate flooring options. Our team is here to make the floor-buying process easy, transparent, and stress-free!