There are pros and cons to every type of flooring. Some are easier to clean and install , whereas others are more durable.
Laminate flooring is an excellent choice, given that its manufacturers have steadily worked to make considerable improvements to the point that it ranks alongside solid hardwood in terms of quality and durability.
If you’re considering laminate flooring, read on to determine if it’s the right choice for you.
What is laminate flooring?
Laminate flooring is a composite, synthetic flooring with a fiberboard core layer or plywood at its base.
In some installments, the bottom core layer is bolstered with underlayment for insulation and additional protection.
The image layer is joined to the core layer, with the former being a printed, well-defined image of stone, wood, or other materials. Then, a final thin, plastic layer is added to the lower layers for extra protection. This final layer is usually transparent.
Laminate flooring is an excellent and cost-effective way to replicate the look and aesthetics of natural stone and wood floors.
How long does laminate flooring last?
The plastic-heavy laminate floors of the 1980s have given way to efficient, waterproof floors in modern times. With the recent innovations for deeper texturing, improved graphical reproduction, and micro bevels, laminate flooring is much improved from what it was a few decades ago.
Some laminate floors have a lifespan of over 20 years, while others require replacement in about ten years. The difference in durability depends on how much use the rooms see, with heavy traffic areas reducing laminate floor lifespan and light use resulting in extended use.
Pros of Laminate Floors
Laminate floors are favored by many today for the following reasons:
Durability
Regarding flooring options, you want one that can last for long, particularly in high-traffic spots. And laminate floors excel at this, particularly in terms of scratch resistance.
Allergy-friendly
For folk with allergies, the choice is nearly always hard flooring. Despite their comfortability, carpets trap hair, fur, and other irritants. On the other hand, laminate floors are easier to clean, and you can quickly get rid of any irritants.
Cost-effective
With laminate floors, you get a lot of natural luxury and brilliant aesthetics for cheap, given that other options are more costly.
Quick and easy installation
Laminate floors are easy to install and DIY-friendly. Thus, you can save some much-needed dollars in installation costs.
Easy maintenance and cleaning
Laminate flooring is pretty easy to clean- all that's required is some light mopping or sweeping, as the material is highly stain and dirt-resistant.
Cons of laminate flooring
Here are a few demerits of laminate floors:
Not completely moisture-proof
Laminate floors are moisture-resistant rather than fully moisture-proof. If you spill water excessively on it, you'll subject it to severe damage.
Improper installation issues
Although you can easily go DIY with installation, there's a significant risk involved if you do it wrongly.
That's why you need professionals to help you with it and provide excellent advice on potential alternatives.
R&N Carpet Services will go the extra yard for you. Call to get a free estimate today!