Laminate Flooring is highly resistant to scratching. It is a great choice for homes with pets and children. Its surface is protected by a durable resin coating.
Parquet patterns like herringbone and chevron are making a comeback in laminate wood floors. They add visual interest to any room.
Laminate floors have a reputation for being durable, and rightly so. They are constructed from a multi-layered synthetic product and can offer a realistic wood effect for a fraction of the cost of real hardwood. They are also hygienic and easy to maintain, with some brands containing antimicrobial resins. However, laminate flooring is not immune to moisture damage and can warp if oversaturated with water. This can be mitigated by using a good quality underlay, which is particularly important in areas where children play and may run around barefoot.
The durability of a laminate floor is determined by its ability to resist impact, abrasion, dirt and moisture. Its superior surface coating and melamine backing help it to withstand wear and tear, as well as offering protection from spills, scratches and other damages. The durability of a laminate floor is further enhanced by the use of felt furniture pads, placed under all pieces of furniture to reduce the risk of scratching. The use of doormats is also advised to trap grit and sand on entering the home, which could be harmful to laminate.
Unlike natural flooring types, laminate has no pore structure so does not have to be sealed, or treated with waxes or varnishes. A simple cleaning solution of vinegar and warm water will keep your floor looking shiny and new. However, avoid detergent-based cleaners and harsh scouring devices, as these can cause the protective layer to degrade over time.
While many manufacturers produce a range of different laminates, the majority are designed for residential use. This type of flooring is not recommended for commercial spaces, or heavy traffic areas like shopping centres and airports. It is also not suitable for installation under heavy machinery or vehicles.
While laminate floors have an excellent moisture and stain resistance, they can be sensitive to direct sunlight and oversaturation of water, especially in areas that are not regularly swept. If this happens, the laminate will swell and crack, which is not the look you want for your home! Water resistant laminates are available, but this is an additional cost to consider.
Easy to maintain
Laminate floors are extremely easy to maintain. Regular vacuuming and the occasional wipe with a microfiber mop is all it takes to keep your laminate clean. You can also add an anti-static treatment to your cleaner to help prevent dust from sticking to the floor. Avoid abrasive cleaning chemicals and waxes, which can damage the surface of laminate.
The tough exterior layer and resin coating of laminate is scratch-resistant, which makes it a great choice for high traffic areas and homes with children or pets. However, if you have very high traffic or a very active family, consider using a flooring option with a higher AC rating. If you decide to use an AC rated laminate in a highly trafficked area, be sure to place protective pads underneath furniture legs and tables to reduce scratches. Additionally, you should try to lift rather than drag heavy furniture across the laminate floor. Felt furniture pads also work well to help reduce the risk of damaging your laminate flooring.
While laminate is water resistant, it is still best to mop up spills promptly to avoid long-term damage. Be sure to use a non-toxic, detergent-free mop pad. It is also important to avoid using vinegar or other acidic cleaners, which can break down the laminate’s upper layer. You should also avoid walking on your laminate floor barefoot, as the natural oils in your feet can degrade the surface of the flooring.
Unlike hardwood, laminate cannot be refinished if it becomes damaged. While minor scratches can often be repaired with a wax pencil or repair putty, more serious damage may require the replacement of the damaged plank.
To further protect your laminate floor, you should draw the blinds or curtains during intense direct sunlight and rearrange your furniture from time to time to avoid sun damage. You can also add a UV film protector to your windows, which will preserve your floors, furniture, and wall paint. Lastly, make sure to add door mats at all entryways to trap dirt and other unwanted debris from entering your home.
Affordable
Laminate flooring offers the look of wood without the cost or limitations of traditional floors. It is also easy to maintain, hygienic (several brands feature an antimicrobial resin), and durable. It is a great choice for homeowners looking to upgrade their home without breaking the bank.
The price of laminate flooring depends on a number of factors, including the square footage and complexity of the project. The cost of labor is also important, and can add up to the total cost of the project. Some additional materials may be required, such as underlayment for moisture control and sound insulation. These materials can cost between 30 and 60 cents per square foot.
Additionally, you should consider the abrasion class rating of the flooring. Higher ratings are more durable, and will cost more. It is also wise to opt for a timeless design that won’t appear dated in a few years. This will help you get the best value for your money.
Installing new floors can be an expensive project, but the return on investment is high. It can improve the resale value of your home, and it can also increase the comfort and functionality of your living space. However, be sure to consult with a professional to ensure the job is done correctly.
The costs of installation depend on the size of the project, the type of underlayment, and the labor rate. It is important to budget for these expenses, and to hire an experienced flooring contractor with a good reputation. It is also a good idea to shop around for the best deal. Some states require that flooring contractors maintain a license, so make sure to check before hiring one. Additionally, be sure to schedule your project during a time other than fall, when flooring contractors are busiest.
Eco-friendly
Laminate floors offer a variety of aesthetics for your home, including many that resemble hardwood flooring. They also come in a wide range of colors and designs, so you can choose the one that suits your style and matches your decor. In addition, laminate is a good choice for allergy sufferers because it doesn’t harbor dust, pollen and other allergens like carpeting.
Laminate flooring is made from recyclable materials, making it eco-friendly. The core of the floor is usually high-density fiberboard (HDF), which is made from recycled wood scraps and residue, resulting in a sustainable product that saves our natural forest resources.
Another advantage of this type of flooring is that it is easy to clean. Spills, stains and dirt simply sit on the moisture-resistant surface layer and can be easily wiped off. In fact, this is why laminate floors are so popular in homes with children and pets.
The lifespan of a laminate floor can vary, but most can last for around 30 years. This is much longer than the life of a traditional hardwood floor, which may need to be replaced after just 10 or 15 years. Laminates can also be repaired and re-surfaced without the need to sand and varnish them, saving time and money.
Another benefit of laminate is that it doesn’t require the use of waxes or polishes, which can damage the surface of a natural hardwood floor. If you need to sand your laminate floors, it’s a simple process that takes less than a day. In addition, laminate floors are extremely durable and can withstand heavy foot traffic.
Although laminates are designed to resemble real wood, they do not feel the same underfoot. If you want to have the acoustics of real wood, you should opt for a thicker laminate such as 12mm or 15mm.
While laminate is a great flooring option for the environment, it does have some disadvantages. For example, it is not recommended for use in a laundry room or bathroom because of the risk of serious water damage. Additionally, if the laminate is exposed to a lot of sunlight, it can fade over time. To avoid this, install laminate in a room that receives little sunshine or opt for a lighter shade of the floor.