When it comes to laminate flooring, thickness isn’t just a number on the box—it’s the difference between a floor that feels solid underfoot and one that creaks every time you take a step. From my years of installing floors, I can tell you that choosing the right thickness is like picking the right foundation for a house: get it wrong, and you’ll be paying for it down the road.
Most laminate planks range from 6mm to 12mm. While 6mm might seem like a good budget-friendly option, it’s usually best for light-traffic areas like guest rooms or closets. Once you start walking on it daily—or heaven forbid, kids and pets come into the mix—it can start to feel flimsy. On the other hand, 10mm or 12mm planks give a more solid, satisfying feel, dampen footsteps, and handle heavy use like a champ. It’s a bit like comparing a paper plate to a dinner plate—you want something that can take a beating without bending out of shape.
Thickness also affects sound and comfort. Thicker laminate planks paired with a quality underlayment can reduce that hollow “click-click” noise that drives some homeowners up the wall. Plus, they provide a bit more cushion, making your floors easier on your feet and joints over time.
Common Laminate Thicknesses and Where to Use Them
When you’re standing in front of a stack of laminate planks at the store, the numbers—6mm, 8mm, 10mm, 12mm—can feel like alphabet soup. Let me break it down from an installer’s perspective so you know exactly what you’re getting into.
6–7mm: This is the entry-level range. It’s fine for low-traffic spaces like closets, laundry rooms, or guest bedrooms. Don’t get me wrong—these planks do the job—but in busy areas, they can flex a little and wear faster. Think of it like wearing flip-flops around the house: it works, but it’s not built for a marathon.
8mm: The sweet spot for many homes. It offers decent durability, comfort, and sound insulation without breaking the bank. In my experience, 8mm laminate performs well in bedrooms, home offices, and moderately used living areas. It’s like the Goldilocks option—just right for most situations.
10–12mm: If you want your floor to feel solid and last a long time, this is where I usually recommend going. These thicker planks handle heavy foot traffic, kids, pets, and even rolling chairs without complaint. They also pair beautifully with underlayments for extra sound reduction. In high-traffic spaces like living rooms, kitchens, or hallways, 10mm or 12mm is money well spent. It’s like swapping out a tricycle for a mountain bike—you’ll thank yourself every time you walk on it.
Choosing the right thickness depends not only on the room but also on your lifestyle. A single 6mm plank in a quiet study might be fine, but for a family with dogs running around, going thicker is like putting on armor—you’re protecting your investment and avoiding surprises down the line.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Laminate Thickness
Picking the right laminate thickness isn’t just about picking the tallest plank off the shelf—it’s about understanding how your floor will perform in your specific space. Over the years, I’ve installed floors in everything from tiny apartments to sprawling living rooms, and a few key factors always come into play.
1. Room Usage:
Think about how much traffic the room gets. A hallway or living room sees a lot more footsteps than a guest bedroom. If your floors are going to take a beating from kids, pets, or even rolling office chairs, going for 10mm or 12mm is like putting on a suit of armor—you’ll avoid squeaks, dents, and premature wear.
2. Subfloor Type:
Not all subfloors are created equal. Concrete, plywood, or existing tile can all affect how laminate planks behave. Thicker planks are more forgiving on uneven surfaces, while thinner options might exaggerate dips or bumps. When I’m on a job site, I always assess the subfloor first—it’s the “secret sauce” that makes or breaks the installation.
3. Underfloor Heating Compatibility:
If you’ve got radiant heat, thickness matters more than you might think. Too thick, and the heat transfer slows down; too thin, and you risk warping. I usually recommend 8–10mm planks with the right underlayment for heated floors—it’s the sweet spot that keeps your feet toasty without causing problems.
4. Sound and Comfort:
Thicker laminate dampens footsteps and gives that satisfying solid feel underfoot. Pair it with a quality underlayment, and you can turn a hollow-feeling room into one that feels like it’s hugging your feet. It’s a small upgrade that makes a huge difference—trust me, your knees and ears will thank you.
5. Budget Considerations:
Let’s face it, sometimes you have to balance performance with cost. Thicker planks usually cost a bit more, but it’s worth thinking long-term. Cutting corners on thickness is like buying cheap shoes—you might save a few bucks now, but you’ll regret it after a year of wear and tear.
At the end of the day, the best thickness is a mix of practical needs, room conditions, and lifestyle factors. With the right choice, your laminate won’t just look good—it’ll feel good, last longer, and save you a headache or two down the line.
Pros and Cons of Thinner vs Thicker Laminate Planks
When it comes to laminate thickness, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. Each option comes with its own set of advantages and trade-offs, and knowing them can save you a lot of headaches down the line. From my years on the installation floor, I’ve seen both sides of the coin—so let’s break it down.
Thinner Laminate (6–8mm):
Pros:
- Budget-friendly: Great for homeowners looking to save a few bucks without sacrificing style.
- Easier to handle: Lightweight planks are simpler to cut, carry, and install—perfect for DIY projects.
- Works in low-traffic areas: Closets, guest rooms, or spaces where you don’t walk heavily benefit from thinner planks.
Cons:
- Less durable: Thin laminate can flex underfoot, leading to squeaks or eventual damage.
- Less sound insulation: Expect more hollow or “clicky” sounds when walking on it.
- Sensitive to subfloor issues: Uneven surfaces are more noticeable under thinner planks.
Thicker Laminate (10–12mm):
Pros:
- Durability: Thicker planks handle high traffic, pets, and furniture like a champ.
- Comfort and sound: Provides a solid feel underfoot and reduces noise significantly.
- Better for uneven subfloors: A little thickness can mask minor imperfections in the subfloor.
Cons:
- Higher cost: You’ll pay a premium for the extra millimeters.
- Slightly heavier: More effort to carry and cut, but nothing a pro can’t handle.
- Underfloor heating considerations: Too thick, and it can slightly reduce heat transfer, so check compatibility.
In my experience, it’s usually worth going a step thicker than the minimum. Think of it like buying a pair of shoes—you can get away with thinner, cheaper ones, but a sturdier pair will save you discomfort and last longer. The right thickness is all about balancing budget, durability, and comfort to fit your lifestyle and the room you’re working with.
Recommended Thickness for Different Rooms and Lifestyles
Not all rooms are created equal, and neither are the people walking on them. Choosing the right laminate thickness is as much about where it’s going as who’s using it. From my installer’s point of view, a little planning upfront saves a world of trouble later.
1. Bedrooms and Home Offices:
For spaces with moderate traffic, 8mm laminate usually does the trick. It’s solid enough to avoid squeaks but doesn’t break the bank. Think of it like a reliable pair of sneakers—you can wear them daily without thinking twice.
2. Living Rooms and Hallways:
These are high-traffic zones, especially in family homes. Here, I almost always recommend 10–12mm planks. They handle everything from kids running around to heavy furniture and even rolling chairs without complaining. A thicker floor also dampens footsteps, which is a blessing if you’ve got multiple floors in your home.
3. Kitchens and Bathrooms:
Moisture is the name of the game here. Thicker planks (10mm+) paired with a proper underlayment and moisture barrier give extra protection. While no laminate is 100% waterproof, going thicker reduces the risk of warping from minor spills. It’s like wearing a raincoat on a drizzly day—you’re not invincible, but you’re much better off than going in unprepared.
4. Homes with Pets or Kids:
If you’ve got dogs, cats, or energetic kids, thickness becomes a real asset. 10–12mm laminate can take scratches, paw traffic, and dropped toys without giving up the ghost. Trust me, in these homes, thinner laminate is like paper in a rainstorm—quickly beaten down.
5. Budget Considerations:
Of course, not everyone can go all out. If your budget is tight, 8mm in most rooms is a safe compromise, but I always tell homeowners: don’t skimp on the main traffic areas. A little extra thickness upfront can save you a fortune on repairs or replacements later.
Bottom line: there’s a “sweet spot” for every room. The trick is balancing traffic, moisture, comfort, and budget. As an installer, I’ve learned that a floor that feels solid from day one will make you glad you invested a little extra in thickness—it’s one of those situations where an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.
How Thickness Affects Installation, Sound, and Underfoot Feel
Once you’ve picked your laminate thickness, it’s not just about looks—how the floor installs, sounds, and feels is just as important. From my experience, these are the little things homeowners often overlook, but they can make a huge difference over time.
1. Installation Ease:
Thinner planks (6–8mm) are lighter and easier to handle, especially if you’re tackling a DIY project. They click together without much effort and are forgiving on a reasonably level subfloor. Thicker planks (10–12mm), on the other hand, are heavier and require a bit more elbow grease. But here’s the kicker—they lock more securely and feel sturdier underfoot once installed. In short, a bit more work upfront pays off with a floor that doesn’t flex or shift later.
2. Sound and Acoustics:
Ever walked across a laminate floor and heard that hollow “clack-clack” echo? That’s usually a combination of plank thickness and underlayment choice. Thicker laminate naturally dampens sound and, when paired with a quality underlayment, can almost make your floors whisper instead of shout. For families, upstairs rooms, or open-concept homes, this is a game-changer.
3. Comfort Underfoot:
Thicker planks feel more solid and cushioned. Walking barefoot on 10mm laminate is a whole different experience compared to a thinner 6mm plank—it’s like the difference between walking on a boardwalk versus a trampoline. Your knees, feet, and even back appreciate that extra stability, especially in high-traffic areas.
4. Long-Term Performance:
Thicker laminate can handle heavy furniture, pets, and everyday wear without sagging or warping. I always tell my clients: “It’s better to spend a little more now than to redo a floor in a few years.” Think of it like buying quality cookware—you might pay more upfront, but it lasts decades.
In short, thickness isn’t just a number—it directly impacts how your floor installs, sounds, and feels for years to come. As someone who’s installed hundreds of laminate floors, I can tell you that a solid, thick plank will make every step feel intentional and every room more comfortable.
Installation Tips and Things to Avoid with Different Laminate Thicknesses
Choosing the right laminate thickness is only half the battle—the way you install it can make or break your floor’s performance. From years of installing laminate for clients, I’ve seen some mistakes happen over and over. Here’s what I tell homeowners and DIYers to keep in mind.
1. Acclimate the Planks:
No matter the thickness, laminate needs to acclimate to the room’s temperature and humidity for at least 48 hours before installation. Thicker planks expand and contract more slowly, but if you skip this step, you’re asking for gaps or buckling down the line. Think of it as letting dough rest before baking—you’ll get a much better result.
2. Use the Right Underlayment:
Thicker planks often need a slightly sturdier underlayment to support the extra weight and provide sound insulation. Thinner planks, on the other hand, benefit from a softer underlayment to prevent hollow sounds. Skipping or using the wrong underlayment is like trying to drive on a road full of potholes—your floor will suffer.
3. Mind the Subfloor:
Uneven subfloors are the enemy of laminate, especially thinner planks. If your subfloor isn’t level, you’ll notice flexing, squeaks, or even damage over time. Thicker planks can hide minor imperfections, but nothing replaces proper leveling. Always check your subfloor before you start snapping planks together.
4. Expansion Gaps Are Critical:
Laminate expands and contracts with temperature and humidity changes. Thicker planks need slightly larger expansion gaps at walls and doorways, while thinner planks need less. Skipping this is like sewing a fitted sheet without corners—it’ll pop and buckle when things shift.
5. Avoid Dragging Heavy Furniture:
Regardless of thickness, dragging heavy furniture across laminate can cause scratches or dents. For thicker planks, the risk is lower, but I still recommend felt pads or sliders—prevention is always better than repair.
6. Take Your Time:
Thicker planks are heavier and a bit more stubborn to click together, so rushing the job can lead to misalignment or damaged edges. I always tell clients: “Slow and steady wins the race,” and it couldn’t be truer with laminate installation.
