Howdens Laminate: Price & Quality (7 Day Sale Ending!)

Today, we’re diving deep into the world of laminate, specifically Howdens laminate. It’s a popular choice, and for good reason, but is it the right choice for you?

We’ll cover everything from price and quality to customer experiences, and most importantly, whether that ticking clock on the 7-day sale should have you sprinting to your local Howdens.

Let’s get started!

Why Laminate Flooring Rocks (and Sometimes Doesn’t)

Laminate flooring is a bit like the Swiss Army knife of the flooring world. It’s versatile, affordable, and relatively easy to install.

But what is it exactly?

Think of it as a layered cake:

• The Base (HDF Core): This is the high-density fiberboard that gives the flooring its structure and stability.
• The Pretty Picture (Decorative Layer): This is where the magic happens! A high-resolution photograph of wood, stone, or tile is printed onto this layer, giving the laminate its realistic appearance.
• The Armor (Wear Layer): This transparent top layer protects the decorative layer from scratches, stains, and fading. It’s the first line of defense against daily wear and tear.

One of the biggest draws of laminate is its price. It’s generally cheaper than hardwood, tile, or stone, making it a budget-friendly option for renovations. Plus, the click-lock installation systems make it a DIYer’s dream.

But, like any material, laminate has its downsides. It’s not as water-resistant as some other options (though many modern laminates are significantly improved), and it doesn’t have the same warmth and feel as real wood.

So, where does Howdens fit into all of this? Let’s take a closer look.

Section 1: Overview of Howdens Laminate

Howdens: A Name You Can (Probably) Trust

Howdens is a well-established name in the UK building and joinery trade. They’ve been around for a while, supplying kitchens, joinery, and, of course, flooring.

Their business model is a bit different from your typical retail store. They primarily sell to trade professionals like builders and contractors. This means that their products are generally geared towards quality and durability, as they need to withstand the demands of professional use.

The Howdens Laminate Lineup: A Style for Every Home

Howdens offers a wide range of laminate flooring, with various styles, colors, and finishes to suit different tastes and budgets.

You’ll find everything from classic oak and walnut to more contemporary gray and white finishes. They also offer different plank sizes and textures, including embossed and registered textures that mimic the look and feel of real wood.

Here’s a quick rundown of some of the key features you’ll find in Howdens laminate:

• Moisture Resistance: Many of their laminates are designed to be more resistant to moisture than traditional laminates, making them suitable for kitchens and bathrooms (though I’d still recommend being cautious in very wet areas).
• Scratch Resistance: The wear layer is designed to withstand daily wear and tear, including scratches from pets and furniture.
• Ease of Maintenance: Laminate is generally easy to clean with a damp mop or cloth.
• Click-Lock Installation: Most Howdens laminates feature a click-lock system for easy and fast installation.

What Makes Howdens Laminate Special?

What sets Howdens laminate apart from the competition?

In my experience, it’s the combination of quality materials, rigorous testing, and a focus on durability.

Here’s a peek behind the curtain at the manufacturing process:

1. Core Construction: Howdens uses high-density fiberboard (HDF) for the core of their laminate. HDF is more dense and stable than medium-density fiberboard (MDF), which is often used in cheaper laminates.
2. Decorative Layer Printing: They use high-resolution printing technology to create realistic wood and stone effects.
3. Wear Layer Application: The wear layer is applied using a special process that ensures it’s durable and scratch-resistant.
4. Quality Control: Howdens puts their laminate through rigorous testing to ensure it meets their standards for durability, moisture resistance, and scratch resistance.

This attention to detail results in a product that’s designed to last.

Section 2: Price Analysis

The Million-Dollar Question: How Much Does It Cost?

Let’s talk money. Howdens laminate pricing can vary depending on the style, thickness, and features of the product.

Generally, you can expect to pay anywhere from £15 to £35 per square meter for Howdens laminate.

Here’s a table comparing average prices of Howdens laminate with other popular brands in the UK market. These are indicative prices and can vary based on specific product lines and promotions.

Factors that influence the price:

• Thickness: Thicker laminates generally cost more, as they’re more durable and stable.
• Design: More intricate and realistic designs can also increase the price.
• Brand Reputation: Howdens has a solid reputation, which can contribute to a slightly higher price point compared to some budget brands.

Breaking Down the Costs:

• Laminate Flooring: £15 – £35 per square meter
• Underlay: £3 – £8 per square meter (depending on the type of underlay)
• Installation: £15 – £25 per square meter (if you’re hiring a professional)
• Accessories: Skirting boards, door bars, and other accessories can add another £50 – £200 to the total cost, depending on the size of the room.

The 7-Day Sale: Is It Worth It?

Ah, the 7-day sale! This is where things get interesting. Howdens often runs promotions and discounts on their laminate flooring, which can significantly reduce the overall cost.

During these sales, you might find discounts of up to 20-30% on selected laminate products. This can make Howdens laminate a very attractive option, especially if you’re on a tight budget.

My advice?

If you’re considering Howdens laminate, keep an eye out for these sales. They’re a great way to save money without compromising on quality.

Section 3: Quality Assessment

Is Howdens Laminate Built to Last?

Okay, so we know the price, but what about the quality? Is Howdens laminate going to stand the test of time?

In my experience, Howdens laminate is generally a good quality product. It’s not the absolute best on the market, but it’s certainly not the worst either.

Durability and Lifespan:

The lifespan of laminate flooring depends on several factors, including the quality of the product, the amount of traffic it receives, and how well it’s maintained.

With proper care, Howdens laminate can last for 10-20 years or even longer.

AC Ratings:

One way to assess the durability of laminate flooring is by looking at its AC rating. This rating indicates the level of wear resistance.

• AC1: Suitable for light residential use (e.g., bedrooms)
• AC2: Suitable for moderate residential use (e.g., living rooms)
• AC3: Suitable for heavy residential use and light commercial use (e.g., hallways, offices)
• AC4: Suitable for general commercial use (e.g., shops, restaurants)
• AC5: Suitable for heavy commercial use (e.g., department stores)

Most Howdens laminates have an AC3 or AC4 rating, making them suitable for most residential and light commercial applications.

Customer Testimonials and Expert Opinions:

I’ve installed Howdens laminate in several homes, and the feedback has generally been positive. Customers often praise its realistic appearance, ease of installation, and durability.

Here’s a quote from a customer I worked with last year:

“I was really impressed with the quality of the Howdens laminate. It looks just like real wood, and it’s been really easy to clean. I’ve got two dogs, and it’s held up really well to their claws.”

Howdens vs. the Competition:

How does Howdens laminate stack up against other popular brands?

• Quick-Step: Quick-Step is a premium brand that’s known for its high-quality laminate flooring. It’s generally more expensive than Howdens, but it offers superior durability and a wider range of designs.
• Balterio: Balterio is another high-quality brand that offers a good balance of price and performance. It’s comparable to Howdens in terms of quality, but it may offer a different range of styles.
• Kronospan: Kronospan is a budget-friendly brand that’s a good option if you’re looking for affordable laminate flooring. However, it may not be as durable as Howdens or other premium brands.

The Verdict:

Howdens laminate is a solid mid-range option that offers a good balance of price and quality. It’s not the cheapest laminate on the market, but it’s also not the most expensive. It’s a good choice if you’re looking for a durable and attractive flooring option that won’t break the bank.

Section 4: Customer Experience

From Browsing to Buying: What’s It Like to Shop at Howdens?

Let’s talk about the overall customer experience. What’s it like to shop at Howdens, from browsing online to installing the flooring in your home?

The Purchasing Process:

Howdens operates a bit differently from your typical retail store. As I mentioned earlier, they primarily sell to trade professionals. This means that you’ll need to open a trade account to purchase their products.

However, don’t let that deter you! It’s relatively easy to open a trade account, even if you’re just a homeowner doing a DIY project. You’ll just need to provide some basic information and proof of address.

Once you have a trade account, you can browse their products online or visit one of their local depots. The online experience is pretty straightforward, with clear product descriptions and images.

The in-store experience is where Howdens really shines. Their depots are staffed with knowledgeable and helpful people who can answer your questions and help you choose the right flooring for your needs.

Customer Service:

Howdens is known for its excellent customer service. Their staff are generally well-trained and knowledgeable, and they’re always willing to go the extra mile to help customers.

I’ve personally had good experiences with Howdens customer service. They’ve always been responsive to my questions and helpful in resolving any issues.

Case Studies and Anecdotes:

I remember one particular project where I installed Howdens laminate in a customer’s kitchen. The customer was initially hesitant to use laminate in a kitchen, as she was concerned about moisture damage.

However, I assured her that Howdens laminate was a good option, as it was designed to be more moisture-resistant than traditional laminates. I also recommended using a waterproof underlay for added protection.

The customer was thrilled with the results. The laminate looked great, and it held up perfectly to the spills and splashes that are inevitable in a kitchen.

Return Policies and Warranty Information:

Howdens offers a standard warranty on their laminate flooring, which covers defects in materials and workmanship. The length of the warranty varies depending on the specific product, but it’s typically around 10-15 years.

They also have a pretty decent return policy. If you’re not satisfied with your purchase, you can return it for a full refund within a certain timeframe (usually 30 days), provided that the product is in its original condition.

Section 5: Conclusion and Call to Action

The Final Verdict: Is Howdens Laminate Right for You?

We’ve covered a lot of ground in this article, so let’s recap the key points:

• Howdens laminate is a versatile and affordable flooring option that’s suitable for a wide range of applications.
• It offers a good balance of price and quality, making it a solid mid-range choice.
• It’s generally durable, easy to install, and easy to maintain.
• Howdens is known for its excellent customer service and helpful staff.

So, is Howdens laminate right for you?

That depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you’re looking for a budget-friendly flooring option that’s still durable and attractive, Howdens laminate is definitely worth considering.

However, if you’re looking for the absolute best quality laminate on the market, you might want to consider other premium brands like Quick-Step or Balterio.

The Clock Is Ticking!

And now, for the moment you’ve all been waiting for: the 7-day sale!

If you’re considering Howdens laminate, now is the time to act. The 7-day sale offers a limited-time opportunity to save money on your purchase.

Don’t miss out on this chance to upgrade your home with beautiful and durable laminate flooring at a discounted price.

Your Next Steps:

1. Visit Your Local Howdens Depot: Talk to the staff, browse the products, and get a feel for the different styles and finishes.
2. Get a Quote: Ask for a quote for the amount of flooring you need, including underlay and accessories.
3. Compare Prices: Compare the Howdens quote with quotes from other flooring suppliers.
4. Take Advantage of the 7-Day Sale: If you’re happy with the price and quality, don’t hesitate to take advantage of the 7-day sale and place your order.

Ready to transform your home with beautiful and affordable laminate flooring?

Head to your local Howdens depot today and take advantage of the 7-day sale! You won’t regret it.

Happy flooring!

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