Debunking Common Myths About Laminate Flooring in Four-Season Climates

For homeowners in Indiana, experiencing all four distinct seasons is a way of life. The constant fluctuation from humid summers to freezing winters and everything in between can make choosing the right flooring a challenge. Laminate flooring, with its incredible versatility and affordability, is often a top contender. Yet, it’s also a material shrouded in myths, especially regarding its performance in diverse climates. At ICC Floors Plus, we’ve heard them all. It’s time to start debunking common myths about laminate flooring and give you the facts you need to make a confident choice for your home.

Myth #1: Laminate Can’t Handle Moisture and Humidity

This is perhaps the most prevalent myth, and it’s rooted in the performance of older laminate products.

• The Myth: Laminate’s wood-based core will swell and warp in humid conditions, making it a poor choice for Indiana’s climate.
• The Reality: Modern laminate has evolved dramatically. Today’s high-quality laminates are manufactured with much denser HDF (High-Density Fiberboard) cores, which are far more resistant to moisture. Many brands now offer water-resistant laminate flooring with special sealants and interlocking systems that prevent spills from seeping into the core. While not 100% waterproof, they can handle topical moisture from spills and humidity much better than their predecessors.

Myth #2: Laminate Will Fade in Sunlight

Sunlight, a welcome sight after a long Indiana winter, can be a concern for many flooring types.

• The Myth: Laminate flooring is prone to fading and discoloration from prolonged sun exposure.
• The Reality: This myth is based on older, lower-quality products. Modern laminate is made with a highly durable wear layer infused with UV inhibitors. This top layer protects the photographic image from sunlight, ensuring the color and pattern remain vibrant for years. A high-quality laminate from ICC Floors Plus will have excellent fade resistance, making it suitable for rooms with large windows.

Myth #3: Laminate Feels Cheap and Looks Fake

The look and feel of laminate flooring have been a major point of innovation in recent years.

• The Myth: You can easily tell the difference between laminate and real hardwood or tile because it looks and feels artificial.
• The Reality: The technology used to manufacture modern laminate flooring is stunningly advanced. High-definition digital printing and embossed-in-register (EIR) technology create textures that perfectly align with the printed wood grain or stone pattern, giving it an authentic feel. Many people find it incredibly difficult to tell the difference between a high-quality laminate and the real thing.

Myth #4: Laminate is Not Suitable for Cold Weather

The cold temperatures and dry air of Indiana’s winter can affect many flooring materials, but laminate is designed to be stable.

• The Myth: Laminate flooring will crack or become brittle in cold temperatures.
• The Reality: Laminate flooring is a highly stable material. Unlike real hardwood, it doesn’t expand and contract as much with changes in temperature and humidity. When properly installed with the correct underlayment and expansion gaps, a laminate floor can handle the temperature fluctuations of a four-season climate with ease, maintaining its integrity and beautiful appearance year-round.

Trust the Experts at ICC Floors Plus

By debunking common myths about laminate flooring, we hope to show you that it’s a fantastic, durable, and stylish choice for homes in Fishers, Crown Point, Indianapolis, and beyond. Modern laminate flooring is engineered to handle the demands of a four-season climate, providing a beautiful and long-lasting solution for your home.

At ICC Floors Plus, we offer quality commercial or residential flooring at a reasonable price. We have an industry-wide reputation for delivering the best products and services. With knowledgeable professionals who will work hard to make your purchasing experience convenient and enjoyable, at ICC Floors Plus, it’s all about you, the customer.

Contact us or visit our showroom locations in Fishers, IN – Crown Point, IN – Indianapolis, IN.