Choosing the right laminate flooring

Let’s face it, hardwood flooring looks amazing, but sometimes it’s just too expensive for our own homes. A great alternative is laminated flooring. Laminate flooring goes through a laminated process of several layers. It consists of four components that contribute to its durability and makes it very affordable.

Types of layers.

Getting a better understand of what laminate flooring is can help you decide what to go with for your home’s floors. These are the various layers that comprise a laminate panel.

Wear Layer keeps scratches and scuffs at bay. You can easily clean the surface with no special instructions and never have to the worry about fading or staining.

Decor Layer have the printed image that provides the look of hardwood flooring. The various designs and patterns don’t limit this type of flooring to just one room.

Core Layer gives the laminate flooring extreme durability, allowing it to be dent resistant.

Backer Layer provides additional durability and support.

Best places to install laminate flooring.

Because of its durability, laminate flooring can thrive in really high-traffic places throughout your home. With its many decor layer options, they are not limited to just one room. They can be in your living room, bedroom or hallways. They are also waterproof, and can also be installed in kitchens, bathrooms and even damp basements.

What to consider when choosing the right flooring.

For durability, always consider thickness. If an area is more high traffic, the thickness should be more. AC ratings also help to consider support and stability. These ratings run from AC 1 all the way through to AC 5.

When it comes to aesthetics, consider the width. Also necessary is thinking about the finish of the decor layer. You can choose from finishes like cherry, chestnut, hickory, maple, oak and walnut. Texture is also a heavy component. You can choose between embossed (or embossed in register), handscraped, or high gloss.

It’s always great to take multiple samples home to determine which will look great in your own home. Figure out if the area you are placing flooring on needs a certain thickness for durability and support. In knowing the differences between waterproof and water-resistant, you can also confidently decide what to install in your kitchens and bathrooms. Ultimately, the choices vary with personal preference and convenience.