Laminate FAQs
The experts here at Staff Carpet are happy to answer all of your laminate flooring questions! Below are some of the questions we hear most often from our customers.
What are laminate floors and how are they made?
Laminate floors are a versatile, durable flooring option that mimics the appearance of a hardwood or tile floor. These floors are made up of several layers of material fused under high pressure, one of which is usually a moisture-resistant layer topped with a high-resolution, photographic image of the desired material look. Laminate is typically finished with a clear coating of extremely durable protective resin. Laminate is considered eco-friendly as well, insofar as it requires the use of fewer trees than hardwood.
Where can I install laminate wood flooring?
Just about anywhere! Laminate is extremely versatile, able to be installed above or below grade (including in basements). You can install it over a variety of subfloors, including wood and concrete. Keep in mind that laminate may not fare well in particularly moist areas such as bathrooms, unless you select a waterproof product.
What are the advantages of laminate flooring over those of solid hardwood flooring?
Quite simply, laminate is more affordable than hardwood. It's typically up to half the cost of a traditional solid wood product. Laminate is also easy to install. Thanks to its click-lock design, it can even be a good DIY project for more experienced home renovators. In many cases, installation doesn't even require glue. Finally, unlike hardwood, laminate is often resistant to scratches and fading, and some modern styles are also waterproof.