How is laminate flooring made?
Laminate flooring is made using a photo of real wood attached to a HDF core. A transparent layer is then applied and aluminum oxide is impregnated into the surface to protect the real wood look. This is what gives laminate flooring amazing resistance to scratching, denting and even burns.
Can I install Laminate flooring in the bathroom?This is largely dependent on the manufacturer warranty. Most laminate floors aren’t covered for installation in bathrooms due to the high humidity that can cause the HDF core to swell. If there’s ever any question, always ask or thoroughly read the manufacturer warranty.
Can I install laminate floors in the kitchen?Laminate floors are excellent for use as kitchen flooring. This is where they initially were the most popular and proved a great alternative for tile and vinyl flooring. You’ll still want to clean up spills in a timely fashion to ensure moisture doesn’t work its way between the seams. Any catastrophic damage (pipes bursting, dishwasher breaking) are things that are typically covered under your homeowners insurance.
Is laminate good for pets?Laminate is great if you have pets. Their surfaces are impregnated with tough aluminum oxide making for a very durable floor that’s highly scratch resistant and easy to clean. While no floor is scratch-proof, good quality laminate floors are extremely durable.
Can I install laminate flooring in the basement?Again, laminate flooring is very versatile and great for installations above, below, or on grade over concrete subfloors. In basements, moisture is more of an issue so performing a moisture test wouldn’t hurt. You should also always use a vapor barrier to keep evaporating moisture from getting trapped in the floor.
Do laminate floors require glue for installation?They used to, but now they simply lock into place with a click locking mechanism. They are floated over underlayment and not attached directly to the subfloor. Laminate floors are one of the easiest diy floors and probably why they are so popular.
I’ve heard laminate can be loud. Is this true?The quality of the underlayment used greatly affects how sound travels through the floor. A basic foam underlayment can sound more hollow than a more dense cork or rubber underlayment. These “silent” underlayments greatly reduces the sound you hear when walking across the floor.
Are laminate floors easy to maintain?Very. Most maintenance will be performed with a dry dust mop and more comprehensive cleanings can be done with a variety of manufacturer approved products.
How long will my laminate floor last?When properly cared for, there’s no reason a laminate floor can’t last a lifetime.
Is thicker laminate better?
It depends on who is making it, but as a general rule, the thicker the floor the likely better and more stable it is. Thicker laminate floors (like 12mm laminates) are stronger and less susceptible to warping over time. This doesn’t mean a 7mm or 8mm laminate will do this. Atmospheric conditions, wear and tear, and maintenance all play into the longevity of a floor.