How is laminate installed?
Laminate flooring is usually designed with interlocking planks, for ease of installation. Laminate can be “floated” over almost any subfloor, installed over a padded underlayment that sits between the subfloor and the laminate planks or tiles. This method requires no glue, nails or staples. Some laminate floors have a built in underlayment. Most manufactures have installation instructions on specific products. It's best to follow their guides, and that will meet their installation guide lines to qualify for manufacturer's warranty.
Why would I choose laminate over real wood?
Laminate flooring offers home owners the look of real wood at a more affordable price. Most laminate is also more durable than wood, better at resisting dents and scratches. In addition, laminate can be installed in rooms of the house where hardwood floors are not an option, such as in a bathroom or basement. Not all laminate flooring is 100% water resistant. Check with the manufacturer with specifications on water resistance.
How long does laminate flooring last?
This will largely depend on the quality of the flooring. Not all laminates are created equal. But, a high-quality laminate floor, with proper care and maintenance can last many, many years. There are laminate flooring that has built in wear and stain protection that will improve the lifetime of the floor.
Where can I install laminate?
Generally speaking, laminate can be installed in any room in the home. It can also be installed over a wide variety of subfloors, including wood, tile, ceramic, concrete and more. For the best results, install over a underlayment product that is over a subfloor. Installing it correctly will improve the lifetime of your flooring.
What is laminate flooring?
Laminate flooring is a man-made product, designed to look like a natural material, such as wood, stone or tile. It’s made by fusing together four, thin layers with different properties, resulting in an attractive, durable flooring option.
