What Is Laminate Flooring: A Complete Overview

Are you thinking about choosing laminate flooring to your list of design needs for your home? Let us be your guides for explaining why this option may just be the best choice for you, your home, and your lifestyle. Whether you’re building a brand-new humble abode or redesigning your current one, laminate flooring should fit seamlessly into every room of your beautiful home. It even has a place in the office!

We’ve put together the ultimate guide for you with all the details you could ever want. While you’re on the hunt for your new floors, we’ll be providing everything you need to know about this specific type of flooring so that you can be confident in your decision. So, take this digital list with you as you’re on the hunt for different laminate styles and new samples to fit your home.

Let’s Define Laminate Flooring

So, what is laminate flooring? We have answers! Laminate flooring is defined by the experts as a type of hard-surface flooring material that is meant to replicate the authentic look of real hardwood floors and other materials. In fact, laminate flooring is actually designed with a wooden fiber core and other materials in order to make the floor protective, durable, and strong.

As this type of flooring has become increasingly popular, companies have been able to extend its offerings. There are actually now three main looks that are popular among consumers today. They are:

·         Laminate tile flooring

·         Laminate stone flooring 

·         Laminate wood flooring

Which types would you pick if given the choice? We’d love to know!

Laminate Floors Are Designed With Specific Layers

Laminate flooring is actually designed in three main layers in order to maintain its durability and strength. These three layers are consistently used when laminate flooring is constructed. Let’s take a look at the breakdown of each to get a better understanding of how this flooring will be there years down the line.

Core Layer

The core layer is the main layer of laminate flooring, and it happens to be the selling point for most consumers. If installing it yourself, it’s also visible when looking at the locking system with each plank.

Composed of High-Density Fiberboard (HDF), this material is the exact reason laminate flooring has a secure structure. HDF is able to fully hold up to everyday wear and tear. So, if you happen to have young children or pets in your home, this is the one type of hardwood flooring you don’t have to worry about.

It’s also the reason why some major companies might prefer it over others for locations that encounter large counts of foot traffic every day.

Backing Layer

In order for the laminate portion to be held together, the backing layer is most certainly needed. If this layer isn’t present, then the laminate flooring layer will not be stable. The backing layer is also the reason the laminate portion is able to float. In fact, this is what makes this type of flooring so different, the way it’s engineered!

It’s this layer and the core layer that are so crucial to making laminate flooring workable and stable. Without it, this type of flooring wouldn’t as well known today!

Underlayment Layer

While not every company offers this layer in the mix, it still plays an essential part. Make sure to check with a manufacturer to see if they include this in their laminate flooring production.

Flooring that comes with underlayment helps the flooring to attach to the subfloor. It also happens to make the installation process much simpler and more efficient for those who are partaking in a DIY installation project. This is because it doesn’t have to be added on manually. It’s a modern twist on installing laminate flooring, and it’s one of the reasons not all manufacturers produce it this way quite yet.  

The Benefits Of Laminate Flooring

Now that we know what layers compose laminate flooring, we can look at the benefits to see if you’re sold on the idea of selecting this beautiful and durable flooring option for your home. By looking into these key features, you’ll easily be able to decide if this flooring is the right option for you the aesthetics of your home!

It’s Great Flooring To DIY

Due to the underlayment layer and the initial flooring set-up itself, laminate flooring is an extremely simple flooring option to install yourself. Especially if you don’t have a ton of extra hands on board to help you get the project done right, this flooring is still pretty easy to install on your own.

It’s Durable

With a resin coating and a strong external layer, this is a flooring option that really is meant to protect the look and quality of your floors. This coating and layer also allow for the floor to be resistant to scratches and any heavy impacts.

Laminate flooring also usually lasts longer than other flooring materials such as carpet, vinyl, or hardwood – another huge plus!

Moisture, Stain, And Fade Resistant

Did you know that there are actually a ton of laminate flooring manufacturers that offer premium warranty protection against any moisture damage, fading, or stains? Not only that, but the laminate flooring itself is resistant to all three.

This is perfect for anyone looking for flooring that needs minimal maintenance or upkeep after it’s been installed.

Easy To Maintain And Clean

Since it’s super stain and moisture-resistant, the surface coating makes it easy to clean and handle as time progresses. The surface that was designed for ultimate durability also doesn’t require any sort of varnish or waxing to keep it looking fresh and fabulous!

It’s An Economical Choice

Laminate flooring is known to be a more economically friendly option when compared to many other flooring materials. And while some may look at the price and think it’s better to invest in a more expensive option, a bigger price tag doesn’t necessarily guarantee better quality.  

This is due to the fact that this particular flooring option happens to be of the most durable and strong when compared to others. In the end, you’ll most likely get more for your money in the long run.     

There’s Several Styles You Can Select

Why should you just settle for one style choice? With laminate flooring, it will feel as if the style options are actually endless. There are even styles that are able to fully replicate the authentic look of hardwood or stone. Plus, there are so many colors and patterns to select that will truly allow you to tailor your home’s style in any way you need.

Whether your style leans more to the vintage side or sways to the other side with a modern twist, laminate flooring really gives you the freedom to select a flooring option that complements your interior design needs.

Our Final Thoughts

Are you sold in the laminate flooring department? With the optimum durability and the endless options laminate flooring presents, we find this to be one of the premier options for any aspect of your home. And did we mention it’s waterproof? So, if you have a few spills (who doesn’t?) or are tracking in rain from a stormy day, have no fear! This type of flooring material truly has you covered and can protect the entire look of your flooring, from the front door to the back.

While we love the look and benefits laminate flooring offers, we also understand that this type of flooring may not suit everyone’s needs. It could simply be a matter of material preference or different material features. But the good news is that there’s a ton of different flooring options available, so the flooring world is your oyster! Look, sample, and explore until your heart’s content!

Sources:

https://www.terracastproducts.com/what-is-resin/

https://www.housebeautiful.com/lifestyle/a22567439/what-is-diy-meaning/

https://www.today.com/shop/9-best-cleaning-products-your-home-t176320

Leave a Reply