Welcome to your go-to guide for everything laminate. At Altimate Flooring, we have spent over 35 years helping homeowners across the Black Hills and the Rapid City Metro Area find durable, stylish floors. Whether you are updating a family room in Box Elder, remodeling a cabin in Hill City, or building a new home in Colonial Pine Hills, laminate is a fantastic choice that combines high-end style with everyday durability.
If you are just beginning your renovation journey, you might want to learn exactly what is laminate flooring and how it is made. Laminate is a synthetic, multi-layer flooring product designed to mimic real wood or stone.
It features a tough wear layer that resists scratches, dents, and stains, making it perfect for active households with kids and pets. If you are ready to explore our wide selection of styles, you can browse our online collection of premium laminate products or stop by our Rapid City showroom to see the realistic textures in person.
One of the most common questions we get from homeowners in western South Dakota is: is laminate flooring waterproof or water-resistant? Traditional laminate could swell if it got wet, but modern technology has changed the game.
Today, many high-quality laminate options feature waterproof surface technology and tight locking joints. This means they can easily handle everyday spills, muddy boots from a hike in Spearfish Canyon, and wet paws. However, it is still important to wipe up major standing water quickly to protect your subfloor.
Before our professional installation crew arrives at your home, there is one critical step you cannot skip. To ensure your new floor looks perfect for years, you need to know: does laminate flooring need to acclimate to its environment? Yes, it does.
We recommend letting the unopened boxes of flooring sit in the room where they will be installed for at least 48 hours. This allows the boards to adjust to the unique humidity levels of your South Dakota home. If you are looking for more ways to make your home improvement project run smoothly, read our tips on how to maximize your budget: smart tips for flooring renovations.
Keeping your new floors looking brand new is surprisingly simple. Learning how to clean laminate floors does not require expensive equipment or harsh chemicals.
For everyday laminate floor care, a dry microfiber dust mop is your best friend. It easily sweeps up dirt and pet hair. When it comes to laminate floor cleaning for sticky spills, use a damp cloth with a specialized laminate flooring cleaner. Avoid using steam mops, wet mops, or wax-based products, as too much water and soapy residue can dull the protective surface.
If you are wondering how to clean very dirty laminate floors or need a deep clean, avoid abrasive scrubbers. Instead, rely on a well-wrung microfiber mop and gentle, approved cleaning solutions to lift the grime safely.
On average, high-quality laminate flooring costs between $3 and $8 per square foot, which includes both the materials and professional installation. The exact price depends on the plank thickness, water-resistance features, and subfloor preparation. To keep your overall project expenses on track, read our guide on how to maximize your budget: smart tips for flooring renovations.
We carry an incredible selection of industry-leading brands to match any style. Our showroom features top names like Aladdin Commercial, Mohawk, Pergo, Mannington, Dreamweaver, Johnson Hardwood, and more. Our local team can help you compare these options to find the absolute best fit for your home, lifestyle, and unique design goals.
Yes, modern laminate is one of the best flooring options for pet owners. The highly durable top wear layer resists scratches from pet claws and protects against accidental spills. If you are trying to decide between different durable materials, check out our helpful blog article comparing when to choose carpet vs hardwood flooring for active family homes.
Yes, laminate can be installed on stairs, but it requires specialized stair nose moldings to ensure a safe, finished look. Because stairs are a high-traffic area, choosing a durable material is incredibly important. For a complete breakdown of the best options for your home, read our guide to the best flooring for stairs.
Yes, an underlayment is essential for a successful installation. It helps cushion the steps, reduces noise transmission, and acts as a moisture barrier over concrete subfloors. Many of the premium laminate products we carry come with a pre-attached pad, which simplifies the installation process and saves you money on additional materials.
Get in touch with the flooring professionals at Altimate Flooring
Rapid City - 1221 Oregon St
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