The big news in laminate flooring this year is Rustics Premium™ New England Long Plank, a dramatic line from Armstrong which offers a hand-scraped, oiled finish hardwood look and the longest laminate floor boards to date – over seven feet. Called ‘New England Long Plank’ because it emulates the look of single plank, centuries-old reclaimed hardwood, the floor’s real-life counterpart would be extremely expensive. The collection was inspired by today’s demand for a time worn look with a matte finish, minus the high price tag. These textural surfaces have the depth, feel and realistic looks of a well-worn floor. “While the long plank, oiled finish look is gaining in popularity, a lot of people get locked out of this category because of price,” said Milton Goodwin, vice president, Armstrong Laminate & Ceramic. “Long planks in real wood also can be challenging to install because of the potential for warping. Our exclusive Lock&Fold® makes installation easier.” With Lock&Fold the panels do not have to be tapped together; simply fit the tongue-and-groove panels together, fold them down and lock them into place. The collection offers a 30-year residential and a 5-year light commercial warranty. Colors include Coastline Clam, Boston Tea, Maritime Gray, and River Boat Brown. IT’S NOT JUST WOOD DESIGNS: NEW PRODUCTS EMULATE NATURAL STONES & CERAMICS The new Armstrong Laminate Stones & Ceramics collection offers a Limestone in Linen Sand and Tawny Beige, as well as a new Slate inspired by Natural Vermont Slate, in five colors, including Ivory Sand, Pebble Dust, Ebony Mist, Natural Beige and Grey Stone. Sure to be laminate’s next best seller, Weathered Way replicates the look of tumbled stone in a random block format. It is available in four colors: Antique Cream, Euro Terracotta, Roman Grey and Earthen Copper. All floors in the Stones & Ceramics collection can be installed using angle/angle installation; no glue required. “With continued improvements in design and technology and a growing assortment of products, ranging from long planks and new looks in stone and ceramic, Armstrong’s newest laminate innovations are ideally suited for people who are looking for high style at a great price,” said Goodwin. The new collections are available now at flooring retailers nationwide. For general information, or to locate an Armstrong dealer, visit www.armstrong.com.