Webmaster Hardwood flooring has been the big buzz for a long time, and not without reason. We’ll have future posts to look more closely at that option. However, it’s too easy to forget that laminate flooring hasn’t had such staying power for no reason. Unlike wood, it does not stain, fade, or 
dent. It is also more scratch and water resistant. Some laminate choices come with warranties ranging from 10 to 15 years. It can make for some pretty easy flooring and many consider it the best flooring for kitchens. For easy flooring, laminate flooring installation may be the way to go. Here are some important considerations if you decide to go the laminate route.
Important Considerations for Laminate Flooring Installation
Expectations
Most people set their expectations too high and expect that entry level laminate flooring will perform under heavy traffic conditions and still look good for the duration of the warranty. This is however not the case, as an entry level laminate floor that is subject to high traffic will start to show wear and tear within three to five years.
Shopping
Laminate floors are available in a wide range of core thickness. The thicker the core the more stable it is and less vulnerable to buckling. The thicker choices can actually sound like hardwood when walked on. The better quality cores are treated with water repellent chemicals that resist swelling that may be caused by excessive moisture. This is an important consideration if the laminate flooring will be in bathrooms or kitchens. Also, consider a floor with Paraffin wax impregnated joints. It is wise to closely examine the warranty; some products won’t be covered for bathroom or kitchen use.
Affordability
The price is right! You’ll find laminate flooring certainly less expensive than natural wood, ceramic or stone. You could spend as much as one-quarter to half the price that you would spend on these others.
Installation
Installation is also far easier for laminate flooring. It can be installed directly over existing flooring, which considerably reduces labor. The laminate floor pieces will simply snap together – no need for hammer and nails.
Aesthetics
Laminate flooring is available that impressively imitates natural dark wood, light wood, bamboo or stone.
Durability
In homes that get a work out from children and pets, the best flooring for kitchens and other heavily trafficked parts of the house, is likely laminate. It offers far more resistance to all the scratches and scrapes your family’s active lifestyle will provide. Remember, though, using it in kitchens or bathroom, care has to be taken to avoid undue water exposure.
Laminate flooring offers a great combination of quality and value in a wide range of colors, styles and designs while being engineered for exceptional strength and durability Hopefully these tips will help you better make the right choice for your home improvement project.
