New Flooring

[Ric.ror]

I currently have quite poor quality laminate flooring throughout my house. I am considering replacing it and would be grateful for any advice. I dont have any small children living at the house and no pets but I would like something hardwearing.

Many thanks in anticipation

[fruitsalad]

Sorry Ric.ror I can't help but I will be interested to see what other ABers suggest because I am about to buy new wooden flooring and have been advised against buying the cheaper laminate flooring

[The Builder]

There are some diabolical laminate floors around Ric. Often they're simply too thin. You can always tell when walking on them.

Good flooring should be around 15-20mm thick. There are those with a 3mm veneer over ply. They are an excellent alternative to the more expensive solid hardwood ones.
Engineered, interlocking will give the best results.
For solid fllors (concrete) they are usually glued down. For use over timber floors, it's usual to "secret nail".

[carrust]

I've just had the kitchen knocked into the dining room & I'm going for Karndean flooring. The original floor isn't that good, so I'll be putting it over some 6mm ply. I agree with the builder regarding laminate, especially in wet areas such as kitchens & bathrooms.

[silliemillie]

I have recently seen Karndean in my brothers house & it looked really good.
But it has to be stuck down so what happens when you want to replace it in the future?

[The Builder]

Millie ........... much the same as with any floor. It would have to be taken up, or if it's still solid, boarded over.

[silliemillie]

Thanks Builder, I know what you mean, but when I want to replace my carpet it lifts quicky & easily ready for a new one to be fitted.

I am guessing with the Karndean it would involve quite a lot of hassle to remove it or do you think you could lay a carpet over it?