MarilynKelvin: What is the History of Laminate Flooring?

Dear Bob and Betsy,

I'm interested in learning more about what you sell. What is the history of laminate flooring? Can you tell me how it was created and how much it has developed over time? Thanks!

– Bruce

Dear Bruce,

You might be surprised to learn that laminate flooring is a relatively new type of flooring.

In the beginning, laminate was used primarily on countertops. This was because the material is so durable against scratches and moisture. As the material became increasingly popular, it was developed into flooring.

The History of Laminate Flooring

The first laminate flooring was created in Sweden in 1977. The inventor, a company called Perstorp (now Pergo) sold flooring for decades before developing and marketing laminate flooring. In 1996, a different Swedish company called Välinge Aluminum invented the glueless type of laminate flooring. Since then, the two companies have been at odds over who has the legal rights to sell this popular style of flooring.

As the popularity of laminate flooring skyrocketed, the Association of European Producers of Laminate Flooring (EPLF) in Germany came up with a series of tests. Because there are so many levels of laminate flooring quality and manufacturing, the tests were meant to determine which laminate flooring was the most water resistant and durable. Based on the results of the test, the EPLF developed what is called the AC rating. This rating is meant to educate consumers on which floors are the best so that they can make the right decisions for their needs.

The rating system put in place by EPLF has dramatically increased the quality of laminate flooring. Now, top brands such as Alloc, Quick-Step, Kronoswiss and many, many others create flooring that is durable, stylish, and that can withstand the test of time.

To answer your question, laminate flooring is one of the most popular types of flooring for good reason. Manufacturers are continuously pushed to the limits to develop top-of-the-line flooring. In turn, customers win getting a high-quality, good-looking, long-lasting product for their home.