When it’s time to look for new flooring, be sure to look at laminate floors. They aren’t just the poor man’s choice anymore.
Laminate floors have become much more popular recently because they are inexpensive, easy to install and easy to clean. They can look convincingly like ceramic, stone or even hardwood flooring and they are very sturdy.
If you look at laminate flooring carefully, you will see it is built of four layers: a bottom, a core, a design layer and the protective layer.
Melamine, that material used in your mother’s everyday plates, forms the bottom layer. It is a form of plastic that is heat and pressure resistant.
The core layer is usually built of fiber board to add strength and elasticity to the surface. This is the layer that interlocks with other laminate pieces so you will see it with tongue and groove elements. The core’s design not only makes it easy to install, it also prevents squeaking.
The design layer is the part that you see once the flooring is installed. You can be as creative as you wish and find flooring for any look you desire. The possibilities are truly endless — you could have a hard time narrowing down your choices.
The protective layer is the topmost layer but is virtually invisible so you can see the design layer. Moisture, dirt, scratches and scuffs are prevented through the use of special coatings. While some damage is inevitable through the years, the protective layer prevents the damage from going deeper than the surface, where it can easily be cleaned or repaired.
Laminate flooring can be used virtually anywhere in the home as they are resistant to damage from water, grease and other materials. The protective coating prevents stains. If something spills, as long as you clean it up quickly, damage is unlikely.
Installing laminate is a fun diy (do-it-yourself) project, like a giant jigsaw puzzle. You can easily install one in a day. Directions are easy to follow and you don’t need a lot of technical know-how. The “big box” home improvement stores often have mini workshops on laminate flooring to help get you started.
Laminate floors are great for people with allergies: Because they are damp-mopped, it is easy to mop up dust mites, dander and other allergens. Laminates can be vacuumed too, to make cleaning even quicker.
There are many brands and varieties of laminate flooring. Search on the internet and you will be amazed at what is available. Be sure to look through newspapers and online, there are many deals available to make laminate flooring even more affordable.
Laminate flooring no longer looks like a cheesy alternative to more expensive types. Indeed, it has become the flooring of choice for many. Check it out and you’ll be convinced too.
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