Hey there! If you’re thinking about giving your home a fresh look with new flooring, you’ve probably come across Allen + Roth laminate flooring at Lowe’s. I’ve spent countless hours researching, installing, and living with laminate floors, and I’m excited to share everything I’ve learned about this brand. Allen + Roth is a name that pops up a lot when you’re browsing for stylish, budget-friendly flooring, and for good reason—it’s durable, good-looking, and easy to work with. Whether you’re a DIY newbie or a seasoned woodworker, this guide will walk you through why Allen + Roth might be the perfect choice for your next project. Let’s dive in and explore what makes this laminate flooring stand out, how to install it, and how to keep it looking great for years.
Why I Chose Allen + Roth Laminate Flooring
When I first started looking for flooring options for my home, I wanted something that balanced style, durability, and cost. Hardwood was tempting, but my wallet wasn’t on board with the price tag. That’s when I stumbled upon Allen + Roth laminate flooring at Lowe’s. What caught my eye was the realistic wood-look finishes. The planks have textures and grains that mimic real hardwood so well that guests often do a double-take. I chose the Provence Oak for my living room, and let me tell you, the smoky grey-brown tones with rustic texture completely transformed the space.
Another reason I leaned toward Allen + Roth was the brand’s reputation. Owned by Lowe’s, they’ve built trust by offering quality products at reasonable prices. Their laminate flooring comes in a variety of styles, from classic oak to trendy driftwood, so there’s something for every vibe. Plus, it’s designed to be DIY-friendly, which was a big win for me since I love tackling projects myself. The interlocking system makes installation a breeze, and the durability means it can handle my two kids and a hyperactive dog without showing too much wear.
What Makes Allen + Roth Laminate Flooring Special?
Let’s talk about what sets Allen + Roth apart from other laminate brands. First off, the quality is impressive for the price. Most of their laminate planks are 10mm to 12mm thick, which gives them a sturdy feel underfoot. The thicker the plank, the more durable and stable the floor, especially in high-traffic areas like hallways or kitchens. I’ve found that Allen + Roth’s planks hold up well against scratches and scuffs, which is a lifesaver in a busy household.
The brand uses a Swiftlock anchoring system, which is a fancy way of saying the planks click together without glue. I remember my first time installing it—once I got the hang of the locking mechanism, it was like putting together a giant puzzle. The planks fit snugly, and the joints are smooth, so you don’t get those annoying gaps that some cheaper laminates have. Another cool feature is the attached underlayment on some models. This saves you from buying and laying down a separate foam layer, which cuts down on both cost and installation time.
Allen + Roth also prioritizes eco-friendly manufacturing. Their flooring is made in the USA, which means stricter regulations on things like formaldehyde emissions. As someone who’s sensitive to indoor air quality, I appreciated knowing my floors weren’t off-gassing harmful chemicals. They also offer water-resistant options, which are great for kitchens or basements where spills might happen. While it’s not fully waterproof, the WetProtect system helps prevent moisture from seeping through the planks.
Comparing Allen + Roth to Other Laminate Brands
To give you a clearer picture, I’ve put together a comparison of Allen + Roth with two other popular laminate brands: Pergo and Mannington. This is based on my own experience and feedback from fellow DIYers.
| Feature | Allen + Roth | Pergo | Mannington |
|---|---|---|---|
| Price per Sq. Ft. | $1.79 – $2.68 | $2.58 – $3.50 | $2.50 – $4.00 |
| Thickness | 10mm – 12mm | 8mm – 12mm | 8mm – 12mm |
| Durability (AC Rating) | AC4 (High durability) | AC3 – AC5 | AC3 – AC4 |
| Installation | Swiftlock (Glue-free, click-lock) | Click-lock (Some glue options) | Click-lock (Some glue options) |
| Water Resistance | Water-resistant options available | Waterproof options available | Water-resistant options available |
| Warranty | Limited lifetime warranty | Limited lifetime warranty | 20-30 years |
| Design Variety | Wide range of wood-look finishes | Extensive color and texture options | High-end, realistic designs |
From my experience, Allen + Roth is a fantastic middle ground. It’s more affordable than Pergo or Mannington but doesn’t skimp on quality. Pergo’s waterproof options are a step up if you’re dealing with a lot of moisture, but I found Allen + Roth’s water-resistant planks more than sufficient for my kitchen. Mannington has some stunning high-end designs, but the price can be a stretch for budget-conscious folks like me. If you’re after value and style, Allen + Roth is hard to beat.
How to Install Allen + Roth Laminate Flooring Like a Pro
Installing laminate flooring might sound intimidating, but I promise it’s doable with a little patience. I installed about 800 square feet of Allen + Roth in my basement and great room, and while it was a workout, it was also rewarding. Here’s a step-by-step guide based on what worked for me.
Step 1: Prep Your Space
Before you start, clear the room of furniture and remove any old carpet or padding. I learned the hard way that laminate can’t go over plush carpet—it’s too soft and can mess with the locking system. If you’re working on a concrete subfloor, lay down a plastic vapor barrier first to keep moisture at bay. I used a basic Visqueen barrier, and it did the trick.
Step 2: Acclimate the Planks
Let the flooring sit in the room for 48-72 hours to adjust to the temperature and humidity. I stacked my boxes in the corner of the room and kept the thermostat between 59°F and 68°F. This step prevents the planks from expanding or contracting after installation, which could cause buckling.
Step 3: Lay the Underlayment
If your Allen + Roth flooring doesn’t have attached underlayment, roll out a thin foam layer. I went with a 3mm foam underlay to smooth out minor dips in my subfloor. Don’t tape or staple it—just let it float. Make sure to leave a ¼-inch gap around the edges for expansion.
Step 4: Start Laying Planks
Begin in a corner of the room to keep your lines straight. I found it easier to work with a buddy—one person lays the planks while the other cuts them to fit. Click the planks together at an angle, then press them down firmly. The Swiftlock system is forgiving, but you might need to tap gently with a rubber mallet to get a tight fit. I had to trim some planks to fit around doorways, which was easy with a jigsaw.
Step 5: Finish with Transitions
Once the planks are down, add transition strips where the laminate meets other flooring types, like tile or carpet. I used a rounded transition strip from Lowe’s, and it made the shift between rooms look seamless. Finally, seal the edges with silicone caulk to keep out dust and moisture.
My biggest tip? Take your time with the first row—it sets the tone for the whole floor. If it’s not straight, you’ll be fighting wonky lines the whole way. Also, double-check your measurements for doorways and sills to avoid clearance issues.
Maintaining Your Allen + Roth Laminate Flooring
One of the things I love about Allen + Roth laminate is how low-maintenance it is. After installing it, I was worried about keeping it looking pristine with kids and pets running around. Turns out, it’s pretty forgiving if you follow a few simple rules.
Sweep or vacuum regularly to keep dirt and grit from scratching the surface. I use a soft-bristle broom to avoid any damage. For deeper cleaning, a damp mop with a laminate-safe cleaner works wonders. Just don’t soak the floor—too much water can seep into the seams and cause swelling. I made the mistake of using a steam mop once, and it left smudges that were a pain to clean.
If you get scratches (and you probably will), a laminate repair kit can fix minor ones. For stubborn stains, like marker from my kid’s art project, a dab of rubbing alcohol on a cloth worked like magic. Allen + Roth’s scratch-resistant wear layer does a solid job, but I still use felt pads under furniture to prevent dings. If you’re worried about fading, don’t be—their laminate resists UV damage from sunlight, so it stays vibrant even in sunny rooms.
Pros and Cons of Allen + Roth Laminate Flooring
No product is perfect, so let’s break down what I’ve found to be the highs and lows of Allen + Roth laminate.
Pros
- Affordable: At $1.79 to $2.68 per square foot, it’s a steal compared to hardwood or even some other laminates.
- Easy to Install: The Swiftlock system makes it DIY-friendly, even if you’re not a pro.
- Durable: The AC4 rating means it can handle heavy foot traffic, pets, and kids.
- Stylish: From Provence Oak to Handscraped Driftwood, the designs are on-trend and versatile.
- Eco-Friendly: Made in the USA with low-VOC materials, it’s safer for indoor air quality.
Cons
- Not Waterproof: While water-resistant options exist, it’s not ideal for super wet areas like bathrooms.
- Discontinuation Issues: Some colors, like Scarlet Oak, get discontinued, making it tough to find matching planks for repairs.
- Learning Curve: The locking system can be tricky at first, especially around door jambs.
Overall, the pros outweigh the cons for me. The affordability and style make it a great choice for most homes, but you’ll need to be mindful of moisture and plan ahead for future repairs.
Tips for Choosing the Right Allen + Roth Laminate for Your Home
Picking the perfect laminate can feel overwhelming with so many colors and textures. Here’s what I’ve learned from my own projects and talking to other DIYers.
- Consider Your Space: Light colors like Frosted Maple open up small rooms, while darker tones like Warmed Walnut add cozy vibes to larger spaces. I went with Provence Oak for its grey-brown hue, which pairs beautifully with my turquoise walls.
- Check the AC Rating: For high-traffic areas, stick with AC4-rated planks. They’re tougher and better suited for busy households.
- Test Samples: Grab a few samples from Lowe’s to see how they look in your lighting. I brought home three different shades before settling on one.
- Plan for Extras: Buy 10% more flooring than you think you’ll need. I ran short by one box in my basement and had to scramble to find a match (thankfully, I did!).
If you’re torn between laminate and hardwood, think about your lifestyle. Laminate is easier on the wallet and simpler to maintain, especially if you’ve got a chaotic household like mine. But if you’re set on the real wood feel, Allen + Roth also offers engineered hardwood, which I’ve heard great things about for its moisture resistance.
My Experience Living with Allen + Roth Laminate
After living with Allen + Roth laminate for a couple of years, I can say it’s held up better than I expected. My great room gets a lot of action—kids playing, dog zooming around, and the occasional spilled juice box. The floors still look fantastic, with only a few minor scratches that I was able to buff out. The texture on the Provence Oak adds a rustic charm that hides small imperfections, which is a big plus.
One thing I noticed is that the floor feels solid underfoot, not hollow like some cheaper laminates I’ve tried. The attached underlayment helps with that, and it also keeps noise down, which is great when my toddler is stomping around. The only downside? I wish I’d gone with a water-resistant option for my kitchen. A few spills got into the seams, and while it hasn’t caused major damage, I’m more careful now about wiping up messes quickly.
Why Allen + Roth is a Smart Choice for DIYers
If you’re like me and love the satisfaction of a hands-on project, Allen + Roth laminate is a dream. The click-lock system means you don’t need fancy tools or years of experience. I did my entire basement with just a jigsaw, a rubber mallet, and a measuring tape. The instructions that come with the flooring are clear, and Lowe’s even has a helpline if you get stuck.
The affordability also means you can splurge on other parts of your reno, like a new rug or some cool lighting. And with the variety of finishes, you can create a custom look without breaking the bank. I’ve gotten so many compliments on my floors, and no one believes me when I say it’s laminate—not hardwood.
Conclusion
After diving deep into the world of Allen + Roth laminate flooring, I can confidently say it’s a fantastic choice for anyone looking to refresh their home on a budget. The combination of realistic wood-look designs, solid durability, and easy installation makes it a go-to for DIYers and homeowners alike. Sure, it’s not perfect—moisture can be an issue, and discontinued colors can be a headache—but the pros far outweigh the cons. My floors have brought warmth and style to my home, and they’ve stood up to the chaos of daily life with ease.
If you’re ready to take the plunge, head to Lowe’s and check out their Allen + Roth collection. Grab a few samples, play around with them in your space, and get ready to transform your home. Trust me, there’s nothing like the feeling of stepping back and admiring a floor you installed yourself. Happy woodworking, and I can’t wait to hear how your project turns out!
FAQs About Allen + Roth Laminate Flooring
Is Allen + Roth laminate flooring good for homes with pets?
Yes, it’s a great choice! The scratch-resistant wear layer holds up well against pet claws. I have a dog, and my floors still look great after two years. Just sweep regularly to prevent grit from causing minor scratches.
Can I install Allen + Roth laminate in a bathroom?
Some Allen + Roth options are water-resistant, but they’re not fully waterproof. For bathrooms, I’d recommend extra caution with spills and maybe consider a waterproof brand like Pergo for added peace of mind.
How long does it take to install Allen + Roth laminate?
It depends on the room size and your experience. I did 800 square feet in about five days, working a few hours at a time with help. A smaller room could take a weekend if you’re DIYing it solo.
What tools do I need to install Allen + Roth laminate?
You’ll need a measuring tape, jigsaw or miter saw, rubber mallet, spacers, and a utility knife. If you’re cutting around tricky spots like doorways, a jigsaw is your best friend.
How do I fix scratches on Allen + Roth laminate?
Minor scratches can be fixed with a laminate repair kit from Lowe’s. For deeper ones, try a color-matched marker or wax stick. I’ve used rubbing alcohol for surface marks, and it works like a charm.
Is Allen + Roth laminate eco-friendly?
Yes, it’s made in the USA with low-VOC materials, so it’s safer for indoor air quality. The eco-friendly manufacturing was a big reason I felt good about choosing it for my home.