There are so many flooring choices. Laminate can stand up to tough treatment and still look good.You may need some heavy-duty floors if you have pets or kids or are generally accident-prone. And you may be scouring laminate flooring, thanks to its durability. Laminate flooring balances that resistance to wear and tear with an appealing style and easy DIY installation.That’s why some homeowners pick laminate rather than hardwood or tile. But which choice is best for you? You can make an informed choice for your home by understanding the pros, cons, and laminate flooring types.
When Does Laminate Flooring Make Sense?
Modern laminate flooring can be as appealing as some hardwoods but more long-lasting, especially in high-traffic areas. While laminate was once confined to kitchens and game rooms, its fresh looks can work in dining rooms, living rooms, or even bedrooms.
Older laminates have the risk of contaminants like formaldehyde or volatile organic chemicals (VOCs), but the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency now regulates modern laminate construction. Look for products with a Toxic Substances Control Act Title VI compliance label to avoid harmful chemicals. Ask a healthcare professional how laminates may affect some household members who have chemical sensitivities.
Here’s a look at some of the pros and cons of laminate flooring:
Pros of Laminate Flooring
· Durable: Laminate floors are manageable to clean and maintain. They have a wear layer that shields the flooring from dents or scratches from everyday occurrences like dropped toys and contact with untrimmed pet claws.
· Sustainable: Because laminate flooring is created from wood, it’s recyclable and sustainable.
· Easy to install: Laminate floors are created with interlocking boards, making them simple to install. They can also “float” over hardwood floors, so you don’t need to substitute your existing floors to install them.
Cons of Laminate Flooring
· Difficult to repair: Laminate flooring can’t be refinished or resanded. So, you must replace that flooring section if you have a permanent scratch, dent, or stain.
· Susceptible to water damage: Standing water will cause lasting swelling and damage. This means there may be better ideas than laminate floors for your kitchen or laundry room.
· Sensitive to humidity: When indoor humidity is above 60%, laminate boards can develop and push against one another. This may induce ridges along the seams or bulges in the middle of the boards. But boards can shrink when the humidity falls below 30%, and the joints may separate. Proper installation can avoid these problems.
· Slippery: Laminate floors have been known to be quite slippery when wet. If you have pets or children, factor this into your decision about laminate. Anti-slip sprays and finishes are available, though, to counteract the concern.
How Long Will Laminate Flooring Last?
Most manufacturers will give a 10-year warranty for laminate floors. With appropriate care, the floors may last even longer than that.
Watch for signs that your laminate floor demands replacement. For instance, swelling from water damage or buckling from extreme pressure signals the need to call a professional.
Types of Laminate Flooring Options
The types of laminate flooring mainly associated with the installation process, such as:
Glueless or Click Laminate Flooring
This laminate flooring uses interlocking pieces, so you don’t need glue to install.
Pre-glued Laminate Flooring
The glue is already applied to the planks, so installation is more straightforward.
Glued Laminate Flooring
The oldest form of laminate flooring, this choice needs gluing and doesn’t have a locking system.
Options for Laminate Flooring
If any of your household members have chemical sensitivities, consider options to laminate flooring. Several flooring options have matching features to laminate floors, including:
· Luxury vinyl planks: These are generally thicker and more durable than standard ones. Click-lock floating installation lets the flooring last longer and looks like natural wood. But the plank material -- several layers of vinyl and often a urethane layer -- isn't bearable, according to FixR.
· Porcelain tile: Porcelain tile is a strong alternative for rooms with heavy moisture. But while the costs of tile and laminate are comparable, tile installation is usually more expensive.
· Engineered wood: Although engineered wood is more costly than laminate flooring, it can be the right choice for homeowners who want the durability of laminate with a more natural hardwood look.
If you need painting or remodeling services in Ridgeland, Mississippi, feel free to contact Potter's Property Solutions in Ridgeland, Mississippi.
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