Yes, but only with architectural nosing. While many retailers shy away from stairs, we specialise in them. However, we do not use “stick-on” plastic edges. For a safe, premium finish, we use mechanical stair nosings that lock the laminate in place.

• Acoustics: To solve the “hollow” sound typical of laminate stairs, we use a specialised bond-down method rather than a floating install, ensuring every step feels as solid as oak.

• Safety: We select boards with a higher Slip Resistance Rating (R10) to ensure the staircase is safe for socks and pets.

• The Finish: We can under-cut some stringers (the sides of the stairs) so the wood appears to grow out of the wall, rather than having messy gaps filled with silicone, although sometimes a silicone edge is necessary.

Real-world durability without the “Wood Anxiety.” Modern laminate has evolved. Homeowners choose it when they want the aesthetic of a £100/m² Oak floor but need the indestructibility of a synthetic surface.

• Indentation Resistance: Unlike real wood, laminate won’t dent if you drop a heavy object or walk in high heels.

• The “Sunlight” Factor: Real wood changes colour (oxidises) in sunlight; laminate is UV-stable, meaning your floor stays the exact shade you bought, even in south-facing rooms.

• Total Uniformity: If you want a perfectly consistent grain without the “unpredictable” knots and tannins of real timber, laminate is the superior choice.

The Avana Verdict: It’s an engineered 4-layer system.

1. Overlay (The Shield): A transparent, aluminium-oxide-infused layer that provides the AC4/AC5 wear rating. This is what makes it scratch and burn-resistant.

2. Design Layer: A high-definition 3D print. We specialise in Registered Embossed finishes, where the surface texture perfectly matches the print’s grain.

3. HDF Core: The “Engine.” We use 12mm High-Density Fibreboard (HDF), which is significantly more stable and quieter than the 7mm or 8mm boards found in DIY stores.

4. Balance Layer: A tensioned backing that prevents the board from cupping or bowing, ensuring the floor stays dead-flat for its 20-year lifespan.

Respect the HDF core. Laminate is easy to clean, but moisture is the enemy of the joints.

• Never use a Steam Mop: The heat and pressure force water into the HDF core, causing the edges to “peak” and swell.

• The “Damp” Method: Use a microfibre mop that is “damp-to-the-touch” only. We recommend pH-neutral cleaners that don’t leave a waxy residue, which can dull the floor’s factory finish over time.

The Avana Verdict: Yes, provided the “Tog” is managed. Laminate is an excellent heat conductor. We ensure your installation stays under the 0.15 m²K/W thermal resistance limit.

• Thermal Efficiency: We use perforated or low-tog acoustic underlays specifically designed for UFH to ensure heat rises into the room quickly, rather than getting trapped under the floor.

• Expansion Planning: Because UFH causes the floor to “cycle” (expand and contract) more frequently, we calculate slightly larger hidden expansion gaps behind your skirting boards to prevent buckling.