When considering laminate flooring, the first big brand people think of is Pergo. The brand was created in 1977 and has been popular ever since.
Pergo laminate flooring is durable and waterproof. At the same time, it resembles a wide range of wood finishes, making it a desirable element of any interior aesthetic.
It’s also widely available; you can find Pergo at most big home improvement retailers like Lowe’s and Home Depot.
At an average price of $7 per square foot, Pergo laminates floors are a fairly affordable option.
Another perk is that Pergo floor installation is relatively simple too. Pergo uses a click-and-lock system, making the install an easy DIY project for many homeowners.
What Is Pergo Flooring?
Pergo is a brand that specializes in creating synthetic laminated flooring that mimics wood finishes and sometimes stone.
Since laminated flooring was their invention, the two have generally become synonymous. It’s common for people to refer to laminate flooring in general while using the brand name.
Pergo laminate is made up of four layers, each crucial for adequate durability and a finished wood-like aesthetic.
These layers include:
The wear layer – The outermost top layer you’ll find on Pergo floors. It’s also what gives them their signature durability. It contains aluminum oxide, making it strong and resistant to resident foot traffic. Some even use Pergo floors for light commercial traffic.
The design layer – The second outer Pergo layer gives it an aesthetic touch. It’s a high-resolution photograph of the material it imitates.
The core layer – Most of a Pergo flooring plank is made of this layer. The core is a thick, rigid structure made of fiberboard and serves as a base for structural integrity.
The backing layer – The backing layer protects the overall floor structure. Made from melamine, it also acts as a moisture barrier, keeping the boards from warping over time.
When all the layers are combined, the result is a laminate floor with all the main benefits most homeowners seek in this type of flooring.
Average Total Cost of Pergo Laminate
Before choosing Pergo flooring, you’ll want an average total cost. This will help you organize your budget without overextending.
When installing Pergo floor laminate, you can expect to pay anywhere from $2 to $22 per square foot.
The wide price range is due to differences in installation costs and materials. However, the general average price is about $4 per square foot.
| Type | Material per Sq.Ft | Installation per Sq.Ft | Total Cost per Sq.Ft | Total Cost per 200 Sq. Ft. |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pergo Outlast Maple | $2.79 | $7 | $9.79 | $1,958 |
| Pergo Defense Plus | $3.22 | $7 | $10.22 | $2,044 |
| Pergo Outlast Loch Cove Oak | $4.49 | $7 | $11.49 | $2,298 |
Let’s say your room is about 500 square feet. With labor, materials, and professional installation, you can expect to pay somewhere between $1,800 and $2,000 depending on the exact price of your contractor and your Pergo material choice.
Pergo can be a relatively cheap option when considering the price range for other materials.
For example, most hardwood flooring costs between $3.5 and $10 per square foot.
Pergo costs only $2 to $5 per square foot, making it the most budget-friendly option. You’ll also have to factor in installation costs after obtaining the flooring itself.
You can use our Laminate Flooring Cost Calculator to get a more accurate estimate of your floor installation cost.
Pergo Cost Breakdown
Regarding materials, you’re looking at only $2 to $5 per square foot for most Pergo flooring products. Some examples include:
Pergo Outlast Maple – $2.79
Pergo Defense Plus – $3.22
Pergo Outlast Loch Cove Oak – $4.49
Once you’ve selected your favorite Pergo wood imitation, you can move on to consider installation costs.
While an estimate from a flooring contractor is the only way to be accurate beforehand, you can expect a price range between $2 and $6 per square foot. Remember that a Pergo installation might be cheaper than other hardwood options.
Pergo uses a convenient click-and-lock system, making the installation process less time-consuming.
Likewise, you can avoid installation costs altogether. Because of its easy installation, many homeowners make Pergo flooring a DIY project.
Many options don’t require nails and glue.
However, only choose this option if you have experience installing flooring. If you damage it, you may need to buy more material or pay extra to remove it and install it again.
Did you know? Laminate was already a famous option for countertops before it was introduced as a flooring option.
Additional Cost Factors To Install Pergo Floors
Like with any home remodeling project, you’ll want to create a budget that accounts for unexpected cost factors. These can quickly accumulate, so preparing before buying materials is best.
Some additional installation costs you can expect are:
Underlayment – If you want to prevent moisture damage and increase stability, you’ll need to have some underlayment before installing your Pergo floors. Usually, the price range for this is about $0.30 to $0.80 per square foot for materials, not including installation costs.
Subfloor repairs and leveling – Before installing flooring, contractors must ensure the subfloor is level and has no damage. If they run into any issues, repairing the subfloor can raise costs.
Furniture movement – Some contractors charge for moving furniture out and back into the room. Consider if the service is worth an extra charge. If you still need to, you’ll need to prepare the area so the contractors can work efficiently.
Door trimming – Sometimes, floor thickness can be higher than expected. Some doors must be trimmed to swing open and closed freely if that’s the case. This is another additional charge.
Maintenance rags, brushes, and detergents – Pergo requires regular maintenance, so you’ll want to buy the relevant materials and detergents for the job.
Care and Maintenance of Pergo Laminate
Once installed, Pergo floors might need a little cleaning to look their best. While low maintenance, regular upkeep will keep your floors shiny and fresh. There’s no need to complicate this process, as certain cleaners and abrasive chemicals can damage the flooring.
For ideal maintenance, you’ll need a vacuum or broom, a mop, and a specialized cleaner for Pergo floors. Cleaners specially designed for Pergo floors cost $30 or less per bottle.
If you’ve installed Pergo in a place with heavy traffic, consider floor protectors, mats, and felt pads. You can expect to pay $10 to $50 for these varying materials.
Can You Steam Clean Pergo Laminate Flooring?
No, you should not steam-clean Pergo laminate flooring. This is because the material can absorb the extra moisture, causing swelling and warping over time. The combined heat and steam cause water to become trapped beneath the flooring, leading to structural problems and growth.
Did you know? Pergo started as a Swedish company known as “PernStorp.” Even though it began in 1977, it wasn’t introduced to the market until 1984 under the name “Pergo.”
What Is the Best Way to Clean Pergo Floor Laminate?
For Pergo laminate flooring, basic cleaning materials and methods are best. Avoid excessive water or moisture. Here’s what a typical process might look like:
Remove crumbs or debris from the Pergo wood surface using a broom or a vacuum cleaner.
Use a damp mop with a small amount of specialized Pergo cleaner to clean the area.
Once complete, allow Pergo flooring to dry. If there are any spills, wipe them up with a dry rag to avoid potential moisture damage.
Pergo Laminate Floor Colors
One of the reasons Pergo is such a popular choice with homeowners is because of the customization options. Their laminate flooring offers a wide range of natural wood imitation colors. You can also select from varying finishes to imitate wood texture too.
Some popular choices include:
Oak variations – With Pergo, you’ll see standard, red, tobacco, winter park, and old drift oak. These names reflect various wood stains ranging from almost black to completely white.
Hickory – Another popular choice, Pergo has various hickory stain options, including Natural Park and Groveport.
Exotic wood options – Sometimes, you’ll find wood imitations of exotic wood stains like Brazilian cherry, acacia, and tigerwood. These have unique patterns and color stains, making for flooring that genuinely makes the room stand out.
Can You Stain Pergo Laminate?
Many wish to stain their hardwood floors after installment. While this is perfectly acceptable with natural wood, you shouldn’t try it with Pergo.
The two might look the same, but they’re entirely different. Pergo is made from four layers of laminate, and attempts at staining would only damage the floor.
That’s why Pergo has many color finishes and variations for different popular wood types. Make sure to choose the appropriate one for your home before purchasing and starting installation.
Pergo Laminate Flooring Warranty
Pergo can be particular about their warranties. Each product line, material, and shade may have different conditions. For example, some products will have a limited lifetime warranty while others have a 10-year commercial warranty.
When selecting a Pergo product, make sure first to review its warranty on the website, then also confirm the packaging after buying the material. Some of the conditions that Pergo guarantees include:
The laminate flooring won’t wear through.
It won’t fade in color due to electrical or sunlight exposure.
Flooring will withstand some moisture from ordinary spills and wet mops.
The joint will be secure after installation.
Pergo Laminate Floor Pros and Cons
Before making your flooring selection, you’ll want to evaluate any company’s pros and cons, including Pergo. Doing so helps you gauge your priorities and deliver an informed choice.
Some of the pros of Pergo include:
Overall durability – With four layers, Pergo flooring is durable and can last long when cared for properly.
Low-cost option – Compared to hardwood floors or concrete, Pergo flooring is generally cheap at $2 to $5 per square foot.
Customization – Pergo imitates various wood shades, making it a good choice for those who want a flooring color that fits the room perfectly.
Easy to install – The click-and-lock system makes Pergo floor installation a potential DIY project.
Some of the disadvantages include:
Not genuine – Even if Pergo looks like natural wood, it’s still an imitation. There might be better choices if you’re one for authenticity.
Susceptible to water damage – While durable, prolonged exposure to moisture can easily cause Pergo flooring to warp over time.
Longevity issues – Pergo can last a long time. However, the hardwood floor it imitates will last for generations. If longevity is your prime concern, there might be better options than Pergo.
Pergo Laminate Flooring Reviews
Pergo flooring reviews are generally favorable. Customers mainly express positive surprise at the DIY-friendly installation.
Longtime users also note Pergo’s durability, standing up to regular foot traffic from adults, children, and pets alike.
Moreover, their customer care team is very accommodating.
Pergo vs. LifeProof Laminate Flooring
LifeProof is exclusive to Home Depot and prioritizes strength and durability. While Pergo might be the more aesthetic option, Lifeproof might last longer with proper care.
Pergo vs. Mohawk Laminate Flooring
Mohawk differs from Pergo because they prioritize eco-friendliness and carry a wide range of designs.
Although Pergo has many options, Mohawk has various laminate flooring designs that can provide a unique touch to the home’s aesthetic. Mohawk is also famous for being a highly affordable brand.
Mannington vs. Pergo Laminate Flooring
Mannington also offers many finishes to match the home’s aesthetics. However, they might be a bit pricier than Pergo overall.
However, Pergo is considered a pioneer of the laminate flooring industry. It has well-rounded benefits that include everything from durability to convenience.
Shaw vs. Pergo Laminate Floors
Shaw Flooring is one of the biggest manufacturers of laminate flooring. But their high quality and robust design make them an expensive option.
They have premium lines that exceed Pergo’s usual high-price range. If you value high quality, Shaw Flooring is a good choice but not the most affordable option.
Stainmaster vs. Pergo Laminate
Stainmaster puts easy upkeep and cleanability at the forefront of its products. They started with carpets but have since ventured into the laminate floor industry. However, some users have noted that Stainmaster is worse in quality compared to Pergo.
Pergo vs. Armstrong Laminate Flooring
Armstrong is the best laminate brand in terms of finish selections. Not only can you choose between 20 hardwood styles, but they also have various laminates resembling stone and tile.
They also offer the most comprehensive price range, making them the best for high-end and affordable budget flooring.
Their quality also holds up to Pergo, so the two brands are similar. The final choice will depend on your personal style needs.
Trafficmaster Laminate Flooring vs. Pergo
Trafficmaster is an excellent brand if you prioritize affordability and convenience. You can find them at Home Depot; they’re effortless to install. However, they do fall short in terms of durability and aesthetics when compared to Pergo.
Pergo vs. Quick-Step Laminate Flooring
The good thing about Quick-Step is that it’s waterproof and stands up to high moisture levels without becoming warped.
Quick-Step also offers better warranty options. Pergo is all around more durable and stable and has a texture more closely resembling wood.
Is Pergo Better Than Other Laminates?
Pergo is better for the most part because it’s a better imitation of hardwood flooring than most other laminate flooring brands. It also tends to be more durable. This makes sense considering they’ve been making the product the longest.
Are There Different Grades of Pergo Laminate Floors?
All Pergo laminate floor products have the same thickness of 10 millimeters. However, you can choose from other Pergo products that vary in thickness and material. Ultimately, Pergo laminate is made out of four layers.
Can I Install Pergo Flooring Laminate By Myself?
You can install Pergo laminate flooring with the help of a professional or by yourself. It has a click-and-lock system that makes the whole process easier and many customers have noted this in their reviews.
Does Pergo Laminate Require Floor Underlayment?
Pergo has four layers, making it a durable, stable, and aesthetic option. However, you’ll still need underlayment to insulate the floor properly.
Is Pergo Laminate Flooring Waterproof?
Yes, Pergo laminate flooring is generally waterproof and can stand up to everyday spills and some moisture.
However, try to wipe up any moisture as soon as possible. Over time, water damage can cause Pergo flooring to warp.
Can Pergo Laminate Scratch Easily?
Pergo flooring is designed to be very durable and resistant to scratches. However, it’s not entirely scratch-proof. Be careful when moving overly heavy furniture on it. Also, avoid leaving sharp objects and grit on Pergo, which can cause scratching.
Does Pergo Flooring Laminate Have Formaldehyde?
Formaldehyde is a chemical adhesive often found in laminate flooring. Until recently, it was widely used, raising concerns regarding air safety.
However, Pergo has significantly reduced, if not eliminated, the use of this chemical. The company adheres to strict procedures, so choosing Pergo won’t be a safety risk.
How Long Does Pergo Laminate Flooring Need to Acclimate?
Generally, Pergo recommends letting your new flooring acclimate for 48 to 72 hours. This will give it enough time to adjust to room temperature and proper humidity levels.
How Long Does A Pergo Laminate Floor Last?
The average Pergo flooring laminate will last between 15 and 20 years. However, the exact age depends on factors like foot traffic, exposure to moisture, and regular upkeep.
Is Pergo Laminate Good Brand?
Pergo laminate flooring is a good brand that delivers on its promise of durable and aesthetic flooring.
Although they were the first to start creating hardwood imitations, their product has evolved considerably. They also have the additional benefits of convenience and affordability.
A Well Rounded Laminate Floor Option
With Pergo laminate flooring, you have it all. They’re affordable at $2 to $5 per square foot. You can skip installation costs as Pergo flooring installment can be an easy DIY project.
They also have various finishes and colors, fitting into every room and completing the aesthetic.
Consider other brands too. However, only a few come close to Pergo’s well-rounded benefits.
