Laminate Flooring Buying Guide: Waterproof, AC Rating

Modern laminate looks remarkably like real wood and has one of the toughest surfaces of any floor. It's a strong value for families, pets and rentals. Here's what to look for.

Waterproof vs water-resistant

Older laminate swelled if water got into the joints. Newer waterproof laminates, such as Mohawk RevWood Plus, use sealed edges and water-repellent cores and are rated for surface spills for a set amount of time. Read the warranty to see what it covers and for how long.

AC rating: how tough is the surface?

Laminate durability is rated from AC1 to AC5. AC3 is good for all rooms in a home, AC4 handles very busy homes and light commercial use, and AC5 is for heavy commercial traffic.

Thickness and attached pad

Thicker laminate (10 to 12 mm) feels more solid and sounds less hollow. Many laminates come with an attached pad. If yours does, don't add another foam pad unless the maker allows it.

Laminate or vinyl plank?

Laminate has a harder, more scratch-resistant surface and a more realistic wood look. Vinyl plank is softer, quieter and fully waterproof, so it's the better choice for bathrooms and laundry rooms. For living rooms, hallways and bedrooms, both work well.

Frequently asked questions

Is laminate good for dogs?

Yes. Laminate's hard surface resists scratches from claws better than most floors. Choose a textured, matte look and a waterproof product.

Can laminate go in a kitchen?

A waterproof laminate can, as long as you wipe up spills. For bathrooms and laundry rooms we usually recommend vinyl plank instead.

What does AC rating mean?

It's a wear rating from AC1 to AC5. AC3 or higher is a good choice for any room in a home.

Do you install laminate?

Yes. We sell and install laminate across Los Angeles from our Sylmar showroom. Call (818) 203-1168 for a free estimate.

See it in person

Browse our Laminate collection online, or visit our showroom at 12610 Glenoaks Blvd #8, Sylmar, CA 91342. We're a licensed flooring contractor serving Sylmar, Santa Clarita, Northridge, Burbank and all of Los Angeles. Call (818) 203-1168 or request a free quote.

More guides: Vinyl Plank (LVP) buying guide, Carpet buying guide, Hardwood buying guide.