Frequently Asked Questions About Laminate Flooring

May 20, 2016

While the look of hardwood floors is hard to match, the reality is that it’s a costly option that is tough on the environment. There are are number of alternatives in sustainable flooring, including engineered hardwood and laminate floors – both which offer exceptional quality at a much lower cost. Laminate in particular is an extremely economical flooring option – saving you up to 50% more than hardwood flooring. People are often curious about what exactly laminate is, where it comes from, and how it differs from other flooring options. These are some of the most frequently asked questions about laminate flooring.

Laminate Flooring

If you’re looking for an alternative option to hardwood floors that is just as beautiful and far more cost effective, laminate might be your best option. Here are some frequently asked questions about laminate flooring.

What is laminate flooring and how is it made?

Although laminate flooring has the appearance of wood, it actually doesn’t contain any solid hardwood in its makeup. Similar to vinyl plank flooring, it is actually made up of multiple layers of synthetic material bound together by an adhesive. It simulates the look of wood by the addition of a photographic layer that is visible through a transparent protective film made from very hard cellulose resin.

How much does laminate wood look flooring cost?

When all is said and done, investing in laminate flooring can be as much as 50% cheaper than hardwood. Not only is the process of creating laminate far less intensive in terms of the energy and resources required (making it less expensive to make and buy) but the cost of installing laminate is also considerably less as well. As a result, you can get laminate flooring that resembles even the most exotic wood for a fraction of the price of the real thing.

Is laminate wood look flooring durable?

Laminate flooring is made by compressing multiple layers together under high heat and extreme pressure, creating a hard and strong surface that can withstand almost any type of damage. This incredibly resilient flooring material will resist scraping, scratching and scuffing, making it ideal for high traffic areas, and it is also designed to defy moisture, staining and even damage from the sun, so it will thrive in almost any location.

Laminate Flooring

What is the difference between laminate and hardwood?

While hardwood is lauded for its great looks, laminate floors offer many advantages that it can’t match. Hardwood needs to be laid above grade (ground level), whereas laminate can be laid above or below grade. Laminate is also extremely versatile, it can be laid over almost any surface, including concrete slabbing. Laminate is made from multiple synthetic layers, with a photographic layer that gives it the appearance of wood. Some hardwoods are engineered, often called sustainable hardwood, which is made up multiple thin wood layers which are pressed together. Laminate flooring is much cheeper than hardwood – typically half the price. Laminate is also much easier to install. Hardwood is typically lamented for its susceptibility to scratches and general wear and fading, whereas laminate features an ultra-hard resin layer that increases durability.

Is laminate flooring easy to clean and maintain?

Laminate flooring is very easy to clean due to its resistant surface resin. Stains can be easily avoided by wiping up liquids right away. Dirt and sand should also be swept up immediately to avoid scratching. Mild scratches can be repaired with a floor repair paste.

How long will laminate floor last?

Depending on the quality, laminate floors can last between 10 and 50 years. Obviously there are many factors which come in to play, including environmental factors, maintenance and the manufacturing process.

If you are in the market for high quality flooring that offers all-round performance and fantastic value for money you’d be wise to take a long hard look at laminate. If you need advice on finding the right flooring talk to the experts at Aussie Flooring Insights, because we have the experience and knowledge to help you find the ideal floor to suit your unique needs.