Is B&Q laminate rubbish?

arachne

Hi. We're looking to put down a new floor in the dining room - originally we wanted oak herringbone parquet (which is what would have been there originally - 1920s house) but when we got quotes it was just too expensive so we're going down the laminate route. We've seen some parquet style laminate in B&Q, which we really like the look of - here it is: http://www.diy.com/nav/decor/flooring/laminate-flooring/wood_effect_laminate/Colours-Staccato-Natural-Oak-Parquet-Effect-Laminate-Flooring-1-86m-per-pack-12578639?skuId=13099345

However, googling has made me nervous because people keep saying you should buy 'decent' laminate and B&Q gets mentioned as not that great, but I'm not sure if that applies to all B&Q own brand or just the value stuff. Unfortunately, if we want this style of laminate, there don't seem to be any branded alternatives. The only ones I can find are QuickStep Versailles and Sherlock Manor but the colours aren't right.

There are a few reviews on the B&Q site but they don't give any clue whether we're likely to be pulling it up again in 5 years. There is a 15 year guarantee on the floor but I'm not sure I'd trust a B&Q guarantee...

Does anyone have any thoughts or experience on the longevity of B&Q laminate please? We plan to get it professionally fitted with decent underlay if that makes any difference.

sk240

B and Q's loklok (i think its called) is not too bad, obviously it is budget but they do offer the same locking system in their more expensive range.
Make sure you get the loklok stuff though, as this stuff wont pull apart at the edges as it expands and contacts in the heat and cold.

NeverInDebt

Had it in one of our bedrooms for 5 years and no issues

PollyOnAMission

I've had the slate tile effect one in my kitchen, lobby and downstairs toilet for five years and it's been great. I've had dishwasher and washing machine floods in that time and it doesn't seem to have suffered any adverse effects.

http://www.diy.com/nav/decor/flooring/laminate-flooring/tile_effect_laminate/Colours-Leggiero-Black-Slate-Tile-Effect-Laminate-Flooring-1-72m-per-pack-12578640

cddc

Just because it's B&Q does not mean it is rubbish. You pay for what you get after all, and that one is not cheap. Most DIY sheds do considerably differing quality ranges of flooring depending on price, and will advise on usage and potential wear rates.

Yes, if you pay a fiver a pack for laminate, don't expect it last you 15 years, but that one looks as if it could do.