@Buffalo,
I recently installed laminate in three rooms because of its features that they are easy to install, affordable, easy to maintain than hardwood . .But I came across some of its drawbacks that afraid me .I would like to share some with you : Loud, somewhat cold, can get expensive , can warp with water damage, can look fake .They are not recommended for locations where water can easily come in contact with it as it will eventually seep through the seems and ruin it from underneath.