Still the most durable and easiest-to-maintain flooring available, laminates have followed the trend toward high design in recent years, making this inexpensive solution for high-traffic areas all the more satisfying. You can choose from a wide variety of abstract designs as well as stunningly accurate imitations of exotic wood species or good old oak. As a temporary upgrade for a spare room or mudroom when guests are on the way, consider easy-to-install snap-together laminates.