Laminate flooring has become a popular choice for American homes due to its affordability, durability, and diverse designs. A major consideration when selecting laminate is its thickness, as this impacts performance, comfort, and installation requirements. This guide explores laminate flooring thickness in detail, covers related benefits and drawbacks, and offers expert insights for selecting the perfect option for your space.
| Laminate Flooring Thickness | Common Applications | Main Pros | Main Cons |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6mm – 7mm | Low-traffic, rentals, budget projects | Affordable, easy to install | Less durable, may feel hollow |
| 8mm – 10mm | Living rooms, bedrooms, moderate traffic | Balanced durability & comfort | Higher cost than thinner types |
| 12mm+ | High-traffic, commercial, uneven subfloors | Enhanced durability, sound, stability | Costliest, heavier to install |
Understanding Laminate Flooring Thickness
The term “laminate flooring thickness” refers to the total depth of a laminate board, measured in millimeters (mm). Laminate flooring boards typically range from 6mm to 12mm thick. Thickness includes the core and top layers but does not usually count the attached underlayment, if present.
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Manufacturers offer multiple thickness options to accommodate different needs. Choosing the right thickness significantly affects durability, comfort, sound insulation, and aesthetics of the finished floor.
Common Laminate Flooring Thicknesses And Their Uses
6mm To 7mm Laminate Flooring
This is the thinnest category of laminate flooring. 6mm or 7mm laminate is best suited for low-traffic spaces like closets or guest rooms. Homeowners on a tight budget often opt for this range due to its lower price point and lighter planks, which are easier to cut and handle.
- Pros: Low cost, simple installation, easier to transport
- Cons: More susceptible to damage, may feel less substantial and have increased noise
8mm To 10mm Laminate Flooring
8mm and 10mm thicknesses strike a balance between affordability and performance. These are the most commonly installed types for moderate-traffic zones, such as bedrooms, dining areas, and living rooms.
- Pros: Improved durability, good comfort, reasonable pricing
- Cons: Still not as sturdy as the thickest types for heavy use
12mm And Above Laminate Flooring
12mm laminate flooring is considered premium. It’s often installed in high-traffic residential areas or certain commercial spaces. The thickness offers additional support, reduces sound transmission, and masks minor subfloor imperfections.
- Pros: Top-tier durability, feels closest to hardwood, best noise reduction
- Cons: Highest price, requires careful handling due to board weight
Why Does Laminate Flooring Thickness Matter?
Impact On Durability
Thicker laminate planks are more resistant to dents, dings, and warping. They’re less likely to flex under foot traffic, offering better longevity especially for busy areas like kitchens, hallways, and entryways.
Comfort Underfoot
Thicker floors provide extra cushioning, making them feel closer to natural hardwood with less of a “hollow” sound. This is particularly important for upstairs rooms where sound transmission is a concern.
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Sound Insulation
More thickness reduces noise caused by footsteps. If the flooring doesn’t already have attached underlayment, thicker planks will benefit more from acoustic underlayment installed beneath them.
Smoothness Over Uneven Subfloors
A thick laminate board can mask minor irregularities in the subfloor, resulting in a smoother and more stable surface. This is key for older homes where floors are not perfectly even.
Value And Appearance
Many buyers perceive thicker planks as higher quality. Thicker boards allow deeper texturing, mimicking real wood grains more convincingly and adding resale value to the property.
Common Thickness Measurements For Laminate Flooring
Laminate flooring is usually labeled by its thickness in millimeters. Here’s a breakdown of the most common options available in the US market:
- 6mm: Basic, budget-friendly for light-use rooms
- 7mm: Slightly sturdier, but still considered entry-level
- 8mm: Popular choice, perceived as the industry standard
- 10mm: Enhanced feel and better resistance to flex
- 12mm: Premium performance with maximum stability and comfort
Thickness may not include the underlayment layer. Always check packaging details to confirm the measurement.
How To Measure Laminate Flooring Thickness Accurately
If you’re unsure of your flooring’s exact thickness, you can check packaging, manufacturer specifications, or use a caliper to measure an exposed plank. Always measure the core and wearable surface, not just decorative layers or underlayment, for accurate results.
Retailers may list products in both millimeters and fractions of an inch. For reference: 1mm ≈ 0.039 inches. Here’s a quick conversion chart:
| Millimeters | Inches (approx.) |
|---|---|
| 6mm | 0.24″ |
| 7mm | 0.28″ |
| 8mm | 0.31″ |
| 10mm | 0.39″ |
| 12mm | 0.47″ |
Do Thicker Laminate Floors Cost More?
In general, thicker laminate flooring options are costlier than thinner variants due to higher material content and improved performance features. Pricing also depends on brand, pattern, and any attached underlayment or soundproofing layers. Expect to pay a premium for 12mm planks compared to 6mm boards, but remember the potential improvement to appearance and lifespan.
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Comparing Laminate Flooring Thickness With Other Flooring Types
Laminate floors are thinner than solid hardwood, engineered wood, or some luxury vinyl planks (LVP). Here’s how common residential flooring products compare:
| Flooring Type | Typical Thickness Range |
|---|---|
| Laminate | 6mm – 12mm |
| Hardwood | 18mm – 25mm (0.75″ – 1″) |
| Engineered Wood | 10mm – 20mm |
| Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP) | 4mm – 8mm |
| Ceramic/Porcelain Tile | 6mm – 12mm (plus mortar base) |
Knowing these differences is crucial for transition heights and compatibility with doors, moldings, and existing flooring.
Does Thickness Affect Laminate Flooring Installation?
Yes, thickness affects both ease and method of installation. Thicker planks are generally less prone to breaking during locking and handling. They provide more forgiveness for minor subfloor imperfections—ideal for DIYers or in renovations of older homes.
However, floor height increases with thicker products. This may require trimming doors or making other adjustments when transitioning from older, thinner floors or interfacing with tile and carpet.
When Should You Choose Thicker Laminate Flooring?
- High traffic areas: Kitchens, hallways, stairs, and entryways benefit from maximum durability and sound absorption
- Uneven subfloors: Older houses often lack perfectly level surfaces; 10mm or 12mm planks reduce issues
- Desire for solid feel: Thicker boards feel more like hardwood underfoot, which can be a factor in bedrooms or living areas
- Noise control: Multi-story homes or apartments can benefit from better acoustic properties
When Is Thinner Laminate Flooring A Good Option?
- Temporary solutions: If flooring will be replaced soon (ex: rental, flipping, staging), thinner planks keep costs low
- Low-traffic spaces: Closets, guest rooms, or seldom-used areas are well-suited for thinner options
- Minimal floor height: Situations where clearance is tight and door trimming is not desirable
- Budget constraints: Initial investment is lower compared to thicker, premium planks
The Role Of Underlayment In Perceived Thickness And Performance
An underlayment—either attached to the laminate plank or installed separately—improves cushioning, moisture protection, and sound reduction. Some 6mm and 7mm laminates include quality underlayment to upgrade performance, so a thinner plank may still offer a premium feel. Always verify if the underlayment is included or must be purchased separately and factored into the total floor height.
Laminate Flooring Thickness: Impact On Resale Value
Homebuyers often look for floors that are not only visually appealing but also deliver a solid, long-lasting feel. Thicker laminate planks (10mm or 12mm) can add value to your property by reducing noise, increasing comfort, and minimizing visible seams or flexing. This is especially relevant if you plan to sell your home within a few years or want to maximize rental income.
Tips For Choosing The Right Laminate Flooring Thickness
- Assess room traffic. Heavily used areas require thicker, more resilient planks.
- Measure clearances. Check door sweeps, thresholds, and cabinetry for fitting new floor height.
- Consider subfloor condition. Uneven or older subfloors pair best with 10mm or thicker boards.
- Check for attached underlayment. If absent, add a proper pad for comfort and acoustic benefits.
- Balance cost and performance. Opt for at least 8mm in living spaces if budget allows; invest in thicker plank for busiest zones.
Popular Laminate Flooring Thicknesses By Brand In The US
Major brands like Pergo, Mohawk, Shaw, Armstrong, and TrafficMaster offer lines in all standard thicknesses, with some exclusive designs in 10mm or 12mm for premium performance. Many large retailers, such as Home Depot and Lowe’s, display thickness in both metric and imperial units on packaging and in search filters.
| Brand | Available Thicknesses | Notable Features |
|---|---|---|
| Pergo | 7mm, 8mm, 10mm, 12mm | Waterproof, scratch-resistant, realistic textures |
| Mohawk | 7mm, 8mm, 10mm, 12mm | Uniclic locking, attached underlay options |
| Shaw | 8mm, 10mm, 12mm | Commercial-grade wear layers, eco-friendly lines |
| Armstrong | 7mm, 8mm, 10mm, 12mm | Wood and stone looks, durable cores |
| TrafficMaster | 7mm, 8mm | Budget options, basic warranty |
Comparing features beyond thickness is important—including warranty, water resistance, and texture—to find the best fit for your needs.
Thickness And Water Resistance In Laminate Flooring
Some manufacturers market “waterproof” or “water-resistant” laminate flooring. While thickness alone doesn’t guarantee better water protection, thicker planks may have denser cores that resist warping longer during exposure. Always look for products certified for water resistance and follow installation guidelines for bathrooms or kitchens.
Can Laminate Flooring Be Too Thick?
While 12mm laminates offer numerous benefits, overly thick floors can pose installation challenges in tight spaces or in transitions between existing floor coverings of different heights. Excessive thickness could also create trip hazards if not properly leveled across thresholds.
Most American homes don’t require anything beyond 12mm thickness. Ultra-thick planks exist for specialty commercial uses but are rarely needed in residences.
Maintenance Tips For Thicker Laminate Floors
Thicker laminates demand the same basic care as thinner types: regular sweeping, dry mopping, and prompt removal of spills to prevent moisture penetration. Use felt pads for furniture to avoid gouges, and avoid wet mopping. Thicker floors may better withstand minor accidents, but moisture and sharp force can still cause damage if neglected.
How Laminate Flooring Thickness Affects Floor Transitions
When installing adjacent to tile or carpet, matching height is important to avoid uneven transitions. Moldings like T-molds or reducers are available in many colors and heights to blend thick laminates with neighboring surfaces.
Always measure floor thickness together with underlayment or padding when planning transitions at doorways, stairs, or next to fixed cabinetry.
What Thickness Of Laminate Flooring Is Best For Basements?
Basements can benefit from thicker laminates because they are often colder and may have minor subfloor irregularities. 10mm or 12mm products, along with a moisture-resistant underlayment, help provide thermal comfort, noise insulation, and stable performance.
For below-grade installations, choose laminate certified for basements and always test and treat the concrete for moisture before installation.
Frequently Asked Questions About Laminate Flooring Thickness
- Is 12mm laminate flooring worth the extra cost? In high-traffic or upstairs spaces, yes—additional durability and reduced sound often justify the investment.
- What is the best laminate thickness for kitchens? 10mm to 12mm with a quality protective wear layer offers the best longevity and comfort for kitchens.
- Can I install thin laminate flooring over radiant heat? Yes, as long as it’s manufacturer-approved for radiant systems and installed with appropriate underlayment.
- Will added underlayment increase floor height a lot? Most pads add 1-3mm to total height, so factor into clearance and transition planning.
- Does laminate thickness change cleaning requirements? No, cleaning routines remain the same regardless of thickness.
Summary Table: Which Laminate Thickness Fits Your Needs?
| Use Case | Recommended Thickness | Rationale |
|---|---|---|
| Light-traffic rooms (closets, guest rooms) | 6mm – 7mm | Lower cost; less wear expected |
| Average household areas (living room, bedrooms) | 8mm – 10mm | Balanced value, durability, and comfort |
| High-traffic zones (kitchen, hallway, stairs) | 10mm – 12mm | Superior toughness and stability |
| Older homes/uneven subfloors | 10mm – 12mm | Masks unevenness, feels solid |
| Basement/below-grade | 10mm – 12mm + moisture pad | Extra insulation, stability; moisture protection |
Key Takeaways On Laminate Flooring Thickness
- Laminate flooring thickness typically ranges from 6mm to 12mm in the US.
- 8mm laminates are most common, balancing durability and affordability.
- Thicker planks provide better comfort, sound absorption, and lifespan.
- Choose thickness based on room use, subfloor quality, and desired premium feel.
- Always factor in underlayment and height transitions when planning installation.