Pros
Durable
For the low amount of maintenance they require, laminate floors are extremely durable. Laminate can weather high traffic with minimal damage, can offer UV resistance and can be waterproofed. It also does not scratch or discolor as easily as hardwood floors.
Affordable and easy installation
Laminate floors are affordable compared to other flooring options and can easily be installed as a DIY project.
Decently eco-friendly
It is becoming increasingly common to find laminate floors made out of recycled materials (particularly the core layer). Reputable brands will also offer some form of environmental certification, such as GreenGuard.
Cons
Susceptible to liquid damage
Laminate floors are sensitive to moisture. Oversaturation of any liquid, not just water, can cause the planks to buckle, stain and break down if left untreated. Though waterproofed laminate floors are becoming the norm, it is still important to exercise caution, especially if water gets underneath the floor. Water-damaged planks or tiles must be removed and replaced entirely.
Cannot be refinished
Due to its composite construction and wear layer, a laminate floor can never be refinished. Once it has been damaged or worn out, laminate flooring must be replaced.
Artificial appearance: Unfortunately, no matter the quality, laminate flooring will not pass for its real counterpart when closely examined. Everything from pattern repetition to how the floor sounds and feels underfoot (a laminate wood floor will be noisier, for example, than a hardwood floor) are indicators that a laminate floor is, well, laminate.
Not moisture-proof
Being made of wood, laminate flooring is not impervious to the effects of moisture. Therefore, it’s not suitable as a hard flooring for bathrooms and should be used with caution in kitchens or laundries. Light surface water for cleaning shouldn’t cause issues, but saturation must be avoided.
