Today's laminate flooring comes in a huge array of styles, colors and textures that are more realistic than ever with looks that include exotic hardwoods such as Brazilian Cherry, Mahogany and Walnut, the classics of Oak, Pine and Maple or the styling of tiles like Granite, Marble and Ceramic. The appearance of laminate flooring has become so realistic that it is often mistaken for real hardwood and the real beauty of it is its ease of maintenance, laminate flooring is one of the easiest floors to care for and maintain that you can find."

Laminate flooring manufacturers use sophisticated, computerized technology to create realistic designs that are well protected by a tough outer coating that is impervious to most stains, spills, and burns and extremely scratch resistant.

The beauty of laminate flooring, however, is more than just skin deep. It is made from wood products and plastics that are compressed and bonded under high pressure to form an incredibly hard plank with an aluminum-oxide finish that is almost "as hard as diamonds". "It is nearly impossible to stain, it doesn't fade, never needs waxing or polishing and will probably never wear through," says Blackburn.

You can have it professionally installed, but it has really become a favorite for do-it-yourselfers wanting to save money on a quality laminate floor. It is referred to as a "floating floor" because it is not attached to the sub floor, so no adhesive or nails are required. The planks are a tongue and groove design that snaps together, and it can be cut with any saw that will cut wood. This makes it an ideal weekend project that can yield a professionally installed appearance.

So get ready and have your home spruced up for family and friends with one of the hottest home makeover items on the market -- laminate flooring. Install it yourself and wait for the compliments to flow.