Laminate Flooring
Most everyone has heard of laminate flooring but exactly what is and what are the advantages over other types of flooring? Laminate flooring was actually developed and designed to look like real hardwood. However, the materials for making laminate are a composite of various materials, which are then formed into layers. These layers include a backer core, the decorative design, and then a top wear-layer. Depending on the type of laminate you choose, it may or may not be pre-finished. If the flooring is pre-finished, it will not experience as much expansion and contraction as you would find with traditional hardwood flooring.
Laminate flooring first hit the market about 10 years ago and today, offers a number of advantages such as diversity. Because laminate flooring is so affordable, durable, and available in a wide array of designs, it continues to grow in popularity. Being easy to install and maintain makes this type of flooring hard to overlook as a real contender. Just remember that unlike wood floors, laminate flooring generally cannot be refinished. That means that once you begin to notice wear and tear, sections or the entire floor would need to be replaced. In addition, laminate flooring is not a good choice in rooms with moisture such as a bathroom.
As mentioned, cleaning laminate flooring is a breeze. Simply sweep, damp mop, or vacuum! For the installation, the most commonly used method is called a "floating floor". With this, glue is placed at the joints and the sheet or tiles pressed into place. Now, new styles include a tongue and groove system, which eliminates the need for glue. Best of all, laminate flooring is something you can do on your own. With simple instructions, you can have beautiful new flooring installed in no time. If you are not comfortable doing the installation, then you can hire a professional for a low cost.
If you want the rich, warm look of hardwood but find the budget will simply not support it, then laminate flooring might be the ideal alternative. With so many designs that look like the real deal, no one will know the difference. Keep in mind that laminate flooring is made with wood particles, among other materials, and then with the surface finish being applied, the flooring will appear to be actual wood grain. You will be amazed at the transformation laminate flooring will make in your home.