What Is Laminate Flooring?
Laminate flooring is a multi-layer, rigid flooring product designed to visually resemble wood or stone. It is manufactured as a floating system that uses a mechanical locking mechanism rather than adhesive attachment.
Unlike LVT, laminate does not vary by installation format. All laminate flooring shares a similar layered construction, with performance differences driven by materials, thickness, and surface ratings rather than format type.
Reference-only explanations of laminate construction and specifications.
Why laminate specifications matter
Because laminate flooring follows a standardized construction model, specifications are used to describe performance characteristics such as wear resistance, stability, and surface durability.
Some laminate specs are measured directly, while others are standardized ratings. Understanding what each term represents helps clarify how products are described across manufacturers.
Common laminate specifications (glossary)
The specifications below commonly appear on laminate flooring product descriptions and technical documentation. Each term links to a deeper explanation.
| Specification | What it describes | Learn more |
|---|---|---|
| Total Thickness | The overall height of the laminate plank. | In-depth explanation |
| AC Rating | A standardized abrasion classification for laminate surfaces. | In-depth explanation |
| Moisture Resistance | Design features intended to limit moisture absorption. | In-depth explanation |
Reference note: This page provides general informational reference about laminate flooring construction and specifications. It does not provide installation guidance, professional advice, or product recommendations.