Laminate flooring is becoming increasingly popular, which is hardly surprising when you consider the many benefits it offers. Not only is it more affordable than traditional hardwood or slate, but it is also healthier for your family and the environment. It is incredibly durable and resistant to scratches and fading, as well as being burn and chemical resistant. Additionally, it is very easy to install, even for those with limited DIY skills, and many laminates come with a simple click-and-lock system. All of these features make laminate flooring an excellent choice for your home.
Key Benefits and Features of Laminate Flooring
Water Resistance
In the last few years, laminate flooring has greatly advanced. Nowadays, many types of laminate flooring offer water resistance for up to 72 hours. This is an incredibly useful trait, especially for areas of the house that are more prone to spills, like the kitchen and bathroom. It's also great for houses with kids and pets, as messes are likely to occur. When buying laminate flooring, check the overview to make sure it has water resistance included.
Scratch Resistance
You can walk on laminate flooring without fear of scratching. While the floor is not scratch proof, neither high heels nor office chairs on wheels are a problem. It is recommended to put felt pads or plastic caps under chair legs or furniture feet. You should avoid getting sand or stones on the floor at any time. This can be done by placing a mat next to the door or creating an area where people can wipe their shoes clean. Compared with wooden parquet or carpet, laminate flooring is very wear-resistant with pets. No worn-through effect will occur.
Fade Resistance
Laminate floors are a great choice for your home as they are highly resistant to UV rays, meaning that the floor will remain vibrant and retain its color even after years of direct exposure to sunlight. This is an especially attractive feature as it guarantees that your floor will maintain its original look for years to come without any fading or discoloration. Moreover, the laminate flooring is easy to clean and is extremely durable, making it a great option for homes with pets and children. With a laminate floor, you can rest assured that it will remain in perfect condition for years to come no matter how much foot traffic or wear and tear it is subjected to.
Chemical Resistance
Classic collection laminate flooring is a great choice for those looking for a stylish yet durable flooring option. Not only is it aesthetically pleasing, but it is also resistant to most household chemicals and organic solvents. These include acetone, red wine, coffee, tea, markers, lipstick, nail varnish, and more. This makes it an ideal choice for those with children and pets, as these common household items are not likely to cause permanent damage to the floor. What may appear to be obstinate stains can be removed with a little acetone, making the floor look as good as new. In addition, laminate flooring is easy to maintain and requires minimal upkeep. With regular sweeping and the occasional mopping, your classic collection laminate flooring can look beautiful for years to come.
Burn Resistance
A burning cigarette that falls onto a laminate floor and continues to burn for a few seconds will not leave any mark or discoloration on the floor. The same cigarette would have a negative impact on other flooring surfaces such as carpet or vinyl. Laminate has the durability to withstand many occurrences that other floors couldn’t.
Wear Resistance
Laminate flooring is renowned for its incredible durability, and its ability to resist wear and tear without showing any signs of aging. This is largely thanks to the overlay, the top layer of the laminate floor, which contains microscopic corundum particles. These particles act as a protective barrier against scratches and scuffs, providing the flooring with an additional layer of protection. The overlay also adds to the floor's aesthetic appeal, providing a glossy, attractive finish that won't fade over time. In addition, the corundum particles also help to reduce noise, making laminate flooring the perfect choice for busy households. With proper care and maintenance, laminate flooring can last for decades, providing a beautiful, timeless look that will never go out of style.
Impact Resistance
Laminate flooring is an excellent choice for those looking for a hard-wearing yet attractive flooring option. This is due to its core board being made from HDF (High Density Fiberboard), which has a much higher density than chipboard or normal MDF. This makes it resistant to sudden and localized knocks, such as those created by stiletto heels or dropping an object, as well as long-term local strain caused by the weight of furniture such as chairs, cupboards, tables, and beds. This makes it particularly suitable for high traffic areas in the home, where it can maintain its attractive appearance for many years. Furthermore, the HDF core board makes laminate flooring much more durable and less prone to cracking or warping, making it a great investment for the long term.
Environmentally Friendly
Laminate flooring is an incredibly eco-friendly and reusable material. It is simple to install and can easily be taken apart and reinstalled again, making it a perfect choice for those looking to make the most of their flooring. What's more, if your laminate flooring is partially damaged you can reuse any of the undamaged planks, or even pass them on to someone else who may be able to use them. This is an excellent way to avoid wasteful disposal, and is a great way to make the most of the materials you have. After all, one man's trash is another man's treasure! Not only does this help to promote sustainability, but it can also be cost effective too. Instead of throwing away damaged planks and having to replace them, you can simply find someone who is willing to take them off your hands. This can be a great way to save money and still get the flooring you need.
As you can see above, we have pointed out quite a few reasons to choose laminate flooring for your home. If you are still unsure or have more questions about laminate flooring, we are always happy to address you questions. Just give us a quick call and we would be happy at assist you. At Befloored, we are always focused on getting the perfect flooring installed for our customers.