Do you know that laminate floors are gaining lots of popularity in America, Canada, Europe and the rest of the world? Undoubtedly, this type of flooring is making a tremendous impact on the flooring market. Many homeowners love this type of wood flooring because of its ease of installation and maintenance and its being very cost effective. It projects a classic appeal and usually the upgrade becomes a conversation piece and center of attraction of the home.
Laminate installation is the covering of decorative sheet laminates and layer of clear plastic. You can choose from a wide variety such as oak, cherry, walnut, beach and the worn, rustic and glossy finish look. Brands such as Dupont and Sergio are in demand among homeowners.
They come in different colors, styles and designs to meet your conceptual ideas.
Because of its easy installation, DIY installers are finding it very exciting. There are “do-it-yourself” guides which are not hard to follow. Nowadays, there is no more glue mess because the flooring models that come out are using a tongue-and-groove seamless system.
The interlocking planks secure the wall to wall flooring. The process has been simplified even for newbies. You need to keep the sub floors flat to keep the planks secured and locked. Just make sure you read the manufacturer’s installation guide if do not want to hire a professional.
A foam underlayment is necessary to provide comfort and sound proofing. Some brands of flooring have underlayment connected to the plank’s underside to the wall’s edge and securing with duct tape the seams. Some laminate floor products have pre-applied glue along the tongue. When a sponge dampens the tongue, it activates this special type of glue. To prevent moisture, try to look for the better grade laminate floors with pre-sealed edges. You need to keep the sub floor to remain flat.
The quality of the latest trend of laminate floors are now manufactured to high standards that it is hard to distinguish between laminates and real hardwood. The grains, texture and weathering are superbly designed and created to perfection. These latest designs are often named as “click-floors “.
Laminate floors are more durable and last longer than many of the materials they emulate. Because of the protective and mirror coating on top, they can be scratch and dent resistant. You can install them over the top of the existing floors. They are very adaptable.
You need to see to it that your floor area to be laminated is measured properly so that you will have an accurate size when buying your laminate floors. It is also wise to buy extra flooring materials. Check also which underlayment is best for the flooring you are installing. Finishing touches are also important. In cleaning your flooring, you do not need any sophisticated equipments. A simple damp cloth, broom and vacuum cleaner are all you need!
