The Spring remodeling season is off to a roaring start this year, and it seems we've been fielding a lot of questions from visitors to our store about all sorts of flooring. However, we have noticed a sizable uptick in the number of people asking about one type of flooring in particular, laminate.
Since so many of you are interested and curious about laminate flooring, we thought we'd throw together a quick FAQ to help settle some of the more common questions we get about this flooring material. If you've been wondering about laminate, this one's for you:
What Are They Made Of?
This is probably the number one question we get about this material. The process of its construction involves bonding a number of materials together at extremely high pressures and temperatures. The bulk of the product, the core or under-layer, is made of high density fiberboard. This core then has a high-definition image applied to it which is then covered in an extremely durable clear coating called the "wear layer". This layer is usually made of resin-coated cellulose, and is responsible for the famous durability of these floors.
Where Can I Install It?
Many materials are not advisable for use in certain circumstances, such as below grade applications, or over concrete sub-floors, for example. The great thing about laminate flooring is that it is extremely versatile, and can be used just about anywhere in your home. Below, grade, over concrete, over wood, wherever.
However, it should be noted that laminate is not suitable for extremely moist areas such as laundry rooms, bathrooms, or saunas, because it does contain wood at its core, and is susceptible to warping and other forms of damage when exposed to water for extended periods of time.
Is There Any Special Maintenance to Worry About?
Not at all! These floors behave much like engineered or solid hardwood floors do, as far as maintenance is concerned. Frequent sweeping is recommended to keep built-up, gritty dirt from eroding your wear layer. When you need a deeper clean, it just takes a well-wrung mop or microfiber mop, to get the job done.
Do You Have Questions of Your Own?
Chances are, you still have questions of your own beyond the basics we've laid down here. If you are getting ready for a floor remodeling project, and you'd like to learn more about laminate floors, Dragon Scale Flooring is always here to help!
Simply call, email, or stop by our showroom in Laurel, MD, to arrange for your free flooring consultation. We'd love to answer any questions that you have, and help you find the best floors for your style and budget. Stop in today and find out why we are the area's leading flooring providers!