at least 12 years old, no scratches yet and super easy to clean, that's why I put the rest of the rooms under Pergo. The sand we have does NOT hurt these floors. The humidity hasn't hurt them either, besides, why do we have air conditioning but to control humidity? I have worn high heels, had dogs and cats and find it is easier to clean than my tile with the nasty grout. It is easier on my back and knees to stand on. I have, however, been in other people's homes where a sharp corner caused a very serious cut (5 stitches) in a child's leg, and several other people have fallen and concussed themselves on tile. If my vote counts, go laminate!