Laminate Brand Suggestions

Q: I read your “Brand Wars 2 – A Laminate Showdown” article on iFloor.com and had a question two brands I came across at an outlet store. The two brands are: Eastwood and Glorius Flooring. I was able to find a website for Eastwood but not Glorius Flooring. Are these quality laminate floors? Any advice or info is much appreciated.
Thanks,
Nick
A: Without being able to find a website for the Glorius floors, my guess would be that this is a private label name for flooring made by one of the many manufacturers out in China or Europe. I personally am not familiar with either product which makes me question its quality. A couple of tips I can provide to help you out if you are still on your search. Find out where the products are manufactured. Many laminates made in China are cheap with exception to some very specific mills.
Also, look into the thickness of the product and finish used. Thinner laminates tend to be cheaper as a rule of thumb and the finish used will make a world of difference. Also, look to see if there is any lab testing of this product, such as Taber testing.
Some of the best laminates on the market right now are Westhollow Vise-loc, Pergo Select, Quick Step Perspective and Eligna and Wilsonart Red Label.
I have had some follow up from Nick, who mentioned he recently found out that Glorius Flooring is manufactured in China and he has chosen to look into other brands. As Steve always mentions “Buyer beware!”