A Comprehensive Guide to Choosing the Best Laminate Flooring for Your Home
Laminate flooring is a popular option due to its affordability, durability, and range of realistic timber-look visuals. However, with so many types and styles of laminate flooring available, it can be difficult to find an option best suited to your home and lifestyle.
Laminate flooring consists of multiple layers of material, including a wear layer, decorative layer, and core layer. These layers are bonded together under high pressure and temperature to create a strong and durable floor covering.
Types of Laminate Flooring
There are two main types of laminate flooring: High-pressure laminate (HPL) and Direct pressure laminate (DPL). HPL is made by fusing multiple layers of material together under high pressure and temperature, making it more durable and resistant to wear and tear. DPL, on the other hand, is made by fusing a single layer of material together, making it less durable but more affordable. When choosing between HPL and DPL, consider the level of foot traffic in the room and your budget.
Quality and Durability
The quality and durability of laminate flooring depend on several factors. A thicker laminate flooring with a denser core layer and a high-quality protective layer will be more durable and long-lasting. Look for laminate flooring that has a higher AC rating, which measures its durability and wear resistance. The higher the AC rating, the greater the wear will be over time.
Installation and Maintenance
While it's possible to install laminate flooring on your own, it is always recommended to engage a professional flooring installer for the job to ensure the longevity and stability of the product. If laminate flooring is not installed correctly, it may be a risk of moisture exposure and warp over time. Each locking system is different, so a professional installer is always the recommended choice.
Laminate flooring is also resistant to stains and spills, making it easy to clean with a damp mop or vacuum. However, for added protection and longevity protective pads can be a great option to have under furniture legs to prevent possible dents and scratches.
Laminate flooring is an affordable and practical option for homeowners who want the look of hardwood flooring without the high cost and upkeep. With a wide range of styles and designs to choose from, laminate flooring is the perfect fit for family households with young children or pets, and will complement any space.
Take a look at the laminate flooring options available at Armstrong Flooring here.