Posted by Joe Homeowner on May 06, 19103 at 23:31:42:
In Reply to: Re: Hampton Collection Glueless Laminate Wood Flooring by Traffic Master posted by William C Kidd Sr. on May 04, 19103 at 07:24:27:
I just bought this product after starting to put down some laminate flooring (i.e. - a Pergo equivalent). But what I bought was a true hardwood surface. I'd recommend that for something with a lot of weight, you avoid laminates, especially if they are thin (less than 5/8" thick) and/or they are made purely from fiberboard. Pay the extra money and go for a plywood-type construction with a proper wood walking surface. Get a product with a good finish, like an epoxy or aluminum oxide resin - they'll last longer and look better.
It seems that the Hampton comes in a couple of varieties. I'd also check around at other flooring stores - especially the smaller ones that cater to the flooring trade - you'll get a better selection and probably a better price of you shop.
Good luck!
PS - the better products seem to be easier to install - they fit better, have stronger tongue-and-groove joints, and will generally leave you with less buyer's remorse. Often, you can find a much better product for about a $0.50 per sq ft premium - not much in the grand scheme of things. Plus, you won't have to buy expensive underlayments/pad to be happy with the sound and feel of the better products.