Yes, laminate flooring is one of the most practical and cost-effective flooring options for Australian homes. Its durability makes it ideal for high-traffic areas, while its wide range of finishes suits everything from modern apartments to suburban family homes. Many Australian households opt for laminate due to its ability to mimic the look of timber without the maintenance. It’s also a great choice for DIY renovators thanks to its easy click-lock installation system. While laminate is not 100% waterproof, many water-resistant options are available that can handle spills and light moisture, making them suitable for living rooms, hallways, bedrooms, and even kitchens. For households with pets and children, laminate provides a durable, scratch-resistant surface that holds up well over time.

Laminate flooring is low maintenance and easy to clean, which is part of its appeal. For everyday cleaning, a soft broom or vacuum will remove dust and debris. For deeper cleans, a damp mop with a pH-neutral cleaner works well—just avoid excessive water and never wet mop, as moisture can seep into the joins and cause swelling. It’s best to use felt pads under furniture legs and avoid dragging heavy objects across the floor. Spills should be wiped up immediately to prevent moisture damage. Laminate doesn’t require waxing, sealing, or polishing like timber does, making it a practical solution for busy households. With the right care, your laminate floor can look great for over a decade.

Laminate and hybrid flooring may look similar, but they differ in structure and performance. Laminate has a high-density fibreboard (HDF) core and a photographic top layer, while hybrid flooring combines a rigid SPC or WPC core with a vinyl top layer. The main difference is water resistance—hybrid floors are 100% waterproof, making them suitable for bathrooms and laundries, whereas laminate is water-resistant but not waterproof unless specially designed. Laminate is generally more affordable and offers excellent wear resistance, while hybrid is better suited for wet areas. Both flooring types offer click-lock installation and a range of realistic timber-look finishes.

Absolutely. One of laminate flooring’s biggest advantages is its DIY-friendly installation. Most modern laminate floors use a floating system with click-lock edges, meaning no nails or glue are required. You can install laminate over most flat and dry subfloors, including concrete, tiles, and existing timber floors. It’s recommended to use an underlay to reduce sound and improve comfort. While installation is relatively straightforward, proper planning and preparation are essential—especially when cutting planks around corners or transitions. Be sure to leave expansion gaps around the perimeter of the room and follow the manufacturer’s guidelines. If you’re unsure, we always recommend consulting a flooring professional.

Laminate flooring can be a more sustainable choice, particularly when made from recycled wood fibres and produced using environmentally responsible practices. Many manufacturers offer laminate floors that are certified low-emission and compliant with standards like E0 or E1 for formaldehyde content. Unlike some vinyl products, laminate doesn’t contain PVC, and the production process generally has a lower environmental impact than harvesting hardwoods. Look for products made with FSC-certified materials or those that feature green building certifications. While it’s not biodegradable, laminate can sometimes be recycled or repurposed, and its long lifespan means less frequent replacement—reducing overall waste.