Laminate flooring is a type of synthetic, composite flooring. A plywood or fiberboard core layer makes up the base of the flooring. In some cases, a backing layer or underlayment is added to the bottom of this core layer for extra protection and insulation. The core layer is glued on top of the image layer—a printed, high-resolution image of real wood, stone or another material. Finally, a thin and transparent wear layer, made of plastic, is added to protect the lower layers from damage. Laminate flooring is a popular way to achieve the look of wood or stone floors without paying the price point of said floors. Although in the past it has been known to look cheap and artificial, these days it is seen as durable, low-maintenance, and—thanks to increasing options for an excellent, photorealistic image layer—high-quality.