Laminate Flooring

From LoveToKnow HomeImprovement

Laminate flooring is a material made to look like a natural product, such as wood flooring or natural stone. Unlike hardwood, laminate flooring will not fade, dent, or stain and is more scratch and water resistant than traditional materials. Made using synthetic materials combined with recycled and natural ingredients, laminate flooring is sometimes covered with a decorative appliqué.

Laminate flooring is easy to install.

Laminate Flooring Options

When evaluating your laminate flooring options, there are many different considerations.

  • Traffic – Some laminate floors are designed for high traffic than others. If you will be installing the flooring in a high-traffic area, it is best to purchase an option that is specifically designed for this purpose.
  • Warranty – Warranties vary by manufacturer. Some laminate flooring manufacturers offer warranties ranging from 10 to 15 years, while others offer lifetime warranties.
  • Location – Different rooms require different laminate flooring. A bathroom will need flooring that is approved for use in a bathroom. If you have the wrong flooring in a bathroom and it floods, it could cause major damage to your laminate and void your warranty.
  • Décor – Colors and styles fall all over the map, making it difficult for some to choose which laminate will match best with your décor. Fortunately, you should have no problems acquiring samples from manufacturers to determine the best fit.

Installation

The most important thing to do when installing a laminate flooring system is to make sure the sub-floor is level. If your sub-floor is not level, the flooring will not work properly. You will also need to purchase a padded underlayment; this helps the flooring float freely. Some types of underlayment reduce sound transmitted and keep moisture from wicking into your laminate.

Most flooring systems do not require glue; the planks just snap together. Glueless installation makes these systems easy to install and perfect for the do-it-yourselfer.

While a few flooring systems do require specially formulated glue be applied to each piece of laminate flooring, some are been pre-glued at the factory and only require a damp sponge to re-activate the glue.

Laminate Care

Caring for your laminate floor is relatively easy. To start, read and follow all care instructions and warranty information that came with your floor system. You should always follow these instructions; not doing so may result in a voided warranty.

Here are a few additional tips to help you care for laminate once it has been installed:

  • Read the care instructions carefully after installing. You may not be able to mop the floor for 24 to 48 hours after installation.
  • Do not use a wet mop on your laminate floor. Water may puddle up and seep behind the baseboard and under your floor, which could damage the floor. Use only a damp mop after vacuuming up dirt and debris.
  • Don't apply acrylic or wax floor finishes.
  • Use doormats or rugs in high-traffic areas like entryways where traffic comes in for the outdoors. This will prevent sand and grit from causing surface scratches in the laminate.
  • Use protective easy-glide buttons on the feet of your furniture.
  • Use only manufacturer-recommended stain-removal products. If your floor gets a burn or grease stains, you may be able to remove them with a household product recommended by the manufacturer.
  • Use dollies when moving heavy furniture. Do not slide furniture across laminate floors; this could cause scratches.
  • If you are using tools in the same room as a laminate floor, lay down a tarp or carpet remnant to help prevent damage caused by a falling hammer or tool.

Popular Laminate Flooring Manufacturers

Some of the most popular laminate flooring manufacturers are:


 


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