Why Laminate Flooring is Perfect for the Family Home?

How is laminate flooring made?

Laminate flooring, a multi-layer synthetic flooring product, is designed to simulate wood or stone with a photographic layer under a clear protective layer. The inner core layer is typically composed of melamine resin and fibreboard materials.

Melamine resin is a hard, thermosetting plastic material made from melamine and formaldehyde by polymerization. It is known for its durability, heat resistance, and ease of cleaning, making it a common choice for kitchenware, laminates, and more.

“Formaldehyde by polymerization” refers to the chemical process where formaldehyde, a simple organic compound, reacts with other substances (like melamine) to form a polymer, which is a larger, more complex compound with repeating structural units. This polymerization process creates strong, durable plastics and resins, commonly used in various industrial and consumer products, including adhesives, building materials, and laminates. In the context of laminate flooring, it helps in forming the core layers and the hard, protective surface.

Fibreboard, on the other hand, is an engineered wood product made by breaking down hardwood or softwood residuals into wood fibres and combining them with wax and a resin binder under high pressure and temperature. It provides a stable, dense, and uniform material, often used in construction and furniture. Together, these materials form a robust and durable core for laminate flooring.

Is Laminate flooring Environmentally Friendly?

Laminate flooring’s environmental friendliness depends on various factors. Many laminate floors are made with sustainable practices and materials, often incorporating recycled wood fibres.

However, concerns arise regarding the use of chemicals like formaldehyde in adhesives and resins.

Modern manufacturing practices have improved, with many brands offering low-emission, eco-friendlier options. When considering its long lifespan and low maintenance requirements, laminate flooring can be a more sustainable option compared to other floorings that need frequent replacement or use of harsh cleaning agents.

Always check for certifications like the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) for assurance of eco-friendly practices.

Why is Laminate Flooring Relatively Cheap

Laminate flooring is relatively inexpensive due to its manufacturing process and materials used. Unlike hardwood floors that require large, quality timber pieces, laminate is made from composite wood pressed together at high temperatures.

The photographic layer, which gives it a wood-like appearance, is much cheaper than real wood. Additionally, the mass production process and the use of less expensive materials reduce costs.

Are Laminate floors scratch resistant?

Laminate flooring is generally known for being scratch-resistant due to its tough external layer and resin coating. This makes it suitable for areas with high foot traffic and households with pets.

To fix a scratch in laminate floors, you can use a laminate floor repair kit which typically includes wax pencils or coloured putty to match the floor colour. Alternatively, minor scratches can be camouflaged using a similar coloured marker or crayon. For deeper scratches, you might need to fill them with a specialized laminate filler before sealing. Always follow the product’s instructions and test in an inconspicuous area first. Regular cleaning and protective measures like furniture pads can help prevent future scratches.

Is water a problem for laminate floors?

Water or moisture can be problematic for laminate floors. While the top layer is somewhat resistant to spills and moisture, the core layers, usually made of fibreboard, are susceptible to damage if exposed to moisture for extended periods.

Excessive moisture can cause the boards to swell, warp, or even mold. It’s important to clean up spills quickly and avoid installing laminate flooring in areas with high moisture levels, like bathrooms, unless it is specifically designed to be water-resistant. Regular maintenance and using appropriate cleaning methods can help mitigate these issues.

Using laminate flooring in a bathroom is generally not recommended due to the high moisture and humidity levels typical in bathrooms. Traditional laminate flooring is not fully waterproof, and prolonged exposure to moisture can cause damage such as warping, swelling, and mold growth.

However, some modern laminate flooring options are designed to be more water-resistant and could be considered for bathroom use with caution and proper care to avoid water pooling or prolonged exposure to moisture. It’s important to choose a product specifically designed for high-moisture areas and to follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for installation and maintenance in such environments.

Laminate Floor Installation

Yes, laminate flooring is generally considered easy to install, especially for those with basic DIY skills. Many laminate flooring products use a click-and-lock system where planks fit together without glue or nails, making the installation process cleaner and quicker than traditional flooring installations.

This feature allows for a floating floor design, meaning it’s not directly attached to the subfloor, further simplifying the process.

Final Words

For successful laminate flooring installation, preparing the subfloor is crucial. It involves ensuring the subfloor is clean, dry, and level. Any debris, dust, or remnants of old flooring should be removed. If the subfloor is uneven, it may need to be sanded down or filled in places. Additionally, a moisture barrier should be laid down, especially if installing over concrete, to prevent moisture from damaging the laminate. Lastly, accurate measurement and planning of the layout are essential to ensure a smooth installation process and a professional finish.