Laminate Flooring

What is laminate flooring? As the name implies, it is a type of flooring made from laminate, which is a material that is composed of two or more layers melded together to form a single unit. First introduced in 1977 by Pergo, a Swedish company, laminate has grown in popularity over the years and is now distributed worldwide. This type of flooring is manufactured to simulate the look of natural flooring products including wood and stone. But laminate are made of synthetic materials, most commonly melamine resin. This allows laminate to be available in a wide variety of colors, designs, sizes and styles: from realistic-looking stone to genuine-looking hardwood. Other laminate products are made of a combination of natural and recycled materials which is then finished with decorative appliqués and finishes such as aluminum oxide finish.

Because laminate flooring uses only synthetic materials, they are much more affordable than natural hardwood flooring. This makes it a great choice for people who want the elegant and stylish look of hardwood flooring but is working on limited budget. It is also the best option for the do-it-yourself homeowner as it is much easier to install compared to hardwood flooring. This is due to the monolithic function of laminate: each individual tile or plank simply clicks into another without requiring any nails, glue, staples and other adhesive products. Another characteristic is that it 'floats' on a layer of foam or film underlayment that is put in place as insulation and protection against sound and moisture.

The main advantage of this type of flooring is that they are much easier to maintain compared to hardwood floor. Since they are made of synthetic materials, laminate flooring does not need oiling, waxing or staining to preserve its good looks. But it is very important to keep the surface free from dust and sand particles as much as possible to avoid scratching the decorative appliqué surface especially in areas that is prone to high traffic. The feet of furniture and appliances can leave unsightly marks and scratches on the laminate surface. To avoid this, there are special adhesive felt pads that are placed under the feet. Over time, the individual planks will little by little become separated leaving unsightly gaps in between. To keep dirt from filling the gaps, making it difficult to fix, it is important to tap the plank back in place using the proper tools.

Laminate flooring has three important components or layers: backer, core and wear. The wear layer protects the surface from damage and keeps it looking like brand new even after years. The core of the laminate plank is built to ensure durability and stability. To keep the laminate floor in top shape, it is important to maintain the wear layer, especially the parts where people usually walk on. Keeping it dust and dirt-free and occasional wiping with a damp mop will keep it looking like new for a longer period of time.

Laminate is a very economical flooring alternative to hardwood. If you want to achieve the timeless look of hardwood flooring in your home without spending too much, laminate is the way to go. A dozen of flooring manufacturers and retailers offers convenient online stores. Check out their sites and choose the style, color, size, and design of laminate floor boards that will seamlessly fit your interiors.

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