Laminate flooring has been around for many years and is becoming increasingly popular. It is a cost effective and attractive flooring option that can be a great addition to your home. However, there are a few things to keep in mind before making the plunge into laminate.
Laminate flooring is made of high density pressed wood fiberboard and an image layer. The core is glued to the subfloor with a pressure sensitive adhesive. This glue allows for a more durable and sanitary surface.
What is the Downside to Laminate Flooring?
While this type of floor is relatively easy to maintain, it is important to use a special cleaning solution that is designed for it. Avoid abrasive cleaners and oil-based cleaners, as they can be harmful to the material. Unlike hardwood, laminate is not waterproof epoxy flooring houston. Therefore, it is not recommended for use in bathrooms. Also, make sure that you keep the temperature in your home at a reasonable level. Cold temperatures will cause the planks to pull away from the subfloor.
Laminated flooring also requires a small amount of moisture in order to be effective. It can buckle or warp if there is too much water, especially in wet areas. If you are installing laminate in a bathroom, you may want to consider purchasing a moisture-resistant floor underlayment.
Some of the best features of laminate are its durability and scratch-resistance. Although not as strong as hardwood, laminate will hold up well in most situations. Depending on the quality of the product, your flooring can last from fifteen to twenty-five years.
Another benefit is the fact that laminate can replicate the look of different materials. For example, you can find luxury vinyl that can replicate the look of real stone or marble. They are available in a variety of colors and styles. Despite the popularity of laminate, there are several disadvantages, too.
One of the biggest disadvantages of laminate is that you cannot refinish it like you can with hardwood. In addition, it can be difficult to repair scratches or dents on it. You can fix some minor scratches with a wax pencil, but more serious damage will require replacement of the board.
Although laminate is a cheaper alternative to hardwood, it does not increase the resale value of your home. As such, you’re not likely to see much return on your investment.
If you’re in the market for new flooring, it’s wise to research the different types of materials available and which will work best for you. If you’re looking for something that can be installed by the DIY enthusiast, you might be interested in laminate. But, if you’re not, it’s best to hire a professional to install it.
Other benefits include durability, versatility, and eco-friendliness. There is a wide variety of options to choose from, and it’s not hard to find a laminate floor that is perfect for your home.
Laminate flooring is an excellent choice for homeowners who are budget conscious and don’t need a high-end look. In some cases, however, it can be more expensive than other types of flooring.