Simulating wood with a photographic applique layer under a clear protective layer, laminate is just a composite.

I would not consider spending money on a laminate floor at this point. It isn’t a better solution than going with the ivory carpet for a few years. Laminate is $, but it's noisy and doesn’t like water. "Water can cause laminate flooring to swell if it gets between the seams. Being made of pressed board, laminate can easily chip--especially the critical tongue and groove sections.”

Where I would spend extra money is on the padding under the rug. That will go a long way to help keep the rug clean. It isn’t the rug fibre which stains, it is whatever liquid has soaked into the pad that keeps coming back to haunt you.

Spend a few cents extra and ask for Mohawk Smart Step. it has a coating which keeps any liquid from soaking into the pad. If it needs to be seamed, have them duck-tape the seams.

I have a light wool wall to wall carpet. Should something spill, I grab a dry cloth or paper towel or newspaper and step on it until all the liquid is out of the rug. Then, use a combo of water and ammonia, and just dab at it.

Actual dirt or mud, just let it dry and then vacuum.

I would suggest seeking advice from those who really live and breathe color and design in the home decorating forum and flooring in the flooring forum.

I can’t comment on stain…whoever your builder uses for install/finishing would probably be the one to speak to,..all I know about oak is red and white oak take stain differently.

Is there any option in your contract which would allow you to choose a prefinished floor? I usually prefer that, for so many reasons, but the biggest is I can actually see the color…no guessing.

I don’t think cpartist noticed the forums under which you have posted. I think you have it covered.

The OP posted in the other forums? I mostly spend my time on this one, kitchens, bath and paint.

cpartist, are you saying this is a double or triple post?

confused?? I thought I was on houzz only

I had laminate in my previous house in the kitchen, hall and entry. It was by Pergo. It was a floating floor and was not only tongue and grove, but glued tongue and grove. It was a work horse. 2 kids, dogs and a leaking fridge didn't faze it. I think because the joints were glued. Easy care. Just moped with either vineger or amonnia water. Had it for 15 years and looked as good as the day it was installed. If I lived in a warmer climate I would do my whole house in it.

cpartist, are you saying this is a double or triple post?

No but I thought you were implying that with your comment: I don’t think cpartist noticed the forums under which you have posted. I think you have it covered.

Judy, first there is nothing wrong with posting in multiple forums if it will help you better. I was suggesting the other forums on GW/houzz because they have people on those forums who live and breathe the subject of flooring and on decorating. This forum tends more towards the nuts and bolts of building a new home.