Laminate Flooring, Make a Dream Home
Unlike hardwood, laminate floors will not stain, fade, dent and are far more scratch and water resistant. Warranties range from 10 years to lifetime and cover such factors as mentioned above. Entry level laminate wood flooring is designed for light traffic areas and come with warranties ranging from 10 to 15 years. Most people set their expectations too high and expect that entry level floors will perform under heavy traffic conditions and still look good for the duration of the warranty. This is however not the case, as an entry level floor subject to high traffic will start to show wear and tear within three to five years.
We hope this guide will help to understand better what laminate flooring is and how can improve your home, ALOT!
Laminate Flooring is Built for the Twenty First Century
The tradition of hardwood floors dates back hundreds of years, their beauty and warmth have downed the halls of castles and brought elegance to many a modern day dining room. Whether it's casual or formal, the natural beauty of hardwood can bring warmth and character to any room and suit any décor. Hardwood floors are however porous, resulting in a weakened structure that is both easy to stain and scratch. This in part has lead to the invention of laminate flooring.
While capturing all the beauty and elegance of hardwoods, laminate flooring is both durable and easy to maintain. Its machine made construction will not stain, warp or buckle and the Aluminum Oxide coated surface gives it a high degree of scratch resistance that is perfectly suited to heavy foot traffic. Unlike hardwood, laminate floors have water resistant cores and wax impregnated edges making them resistant to topical water spills, and allowing for installation in kitchens and bathrooms.
The allure of laminate flooring lies not only in its representation of real hardwood and its incredible durability, but also in the ease with which these floors are installed and maintained. The introduction of glueless laminates has revolutionized flooring, opening the door to the DIY market and weekend enthusiast. No prior experience, specialized knowledge or tools are required. Simply place on the floor, cut the odd piece, click, and your floors are ready to be walked on. The work is time consuming and hard on the knees, but with savings of up to 40% of total job cost, it just might be worth the hardship.
laminate flooring is highly stain resistant and requires very little routine care and maintenance, freeing up your time to relax by the pool. Simply sweep the floor daily with a soft bristled brush and damp mop as required. As a precautionary measure, place foot mats at external doorways, thus preventing the tracking in of dirt, and furniture pads under the feet of furniture in order to prevent scuffing and scratching.
Laminate flooring is available in a plethora of styles and designs. Each wood species displays its own unique characteristics, each lending itself to a different design aspect. Choose the grainy appearance of Oak to add charm to any rustic interior, or utilize t
8mm x 3-1/2" Vienna Red Oak Laminate Flooring
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8mm x 3-1/2" New Orleans Reclaimed Pine Laminate
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Everything You Need To Know on Laminate Flooring
Laminate Flooring mimics the look of traditional woods while offering easy installation and lasting durability. At first glance, it can be difficult to spot the difference between hardwoods and laminate flooring. What appears to be a natural wood grain pattern is really a thin layer of decor paper (a photographic image) under a tough-as-nails protective film that is glued and pressed to a high-density backing board. Laminate Flooring comes in an array of wood effects as well as stone and ceramic effects.Laminate floorings main advantages are that it is easy to install, is very hardwearing and relatively inexpensive compared to real hardwood flooring.
Laminate flooring is a floating floor, which means it does not fasten directly to the sub-floor. Instead the planks are clicked together. This enables the floor to be fitted fast and with no real mess.
Most laminate floors today fit together with a click system with the most common being the UNICLIC system as used by Quick-Step. This is extremely easy and fast to fit. The ingenious UNICLIC-system has a special shape of tongue and groove. You simply place the tongue of one plank into the grove of another at an angle and press down. Their sophisticated and very accurate milled shape makes it possible to create a very tight connection during the installation. The floor can be walked on straight away.
If you are laying laminate flooring over a concrete sub-floor then you will fist need to lay down a damp proof membrane (DPM). This is basically a sheet of plastic usually around 5mm which helps protect the Laminate from moisture. On top of this goes the foam underlay this acts as sound absorption and also helps even out minor irregularities in the sub-floor.
Most manufactories now offer a combined DPM and underlay along with several underlay's that have better sound absorbing qualities
Most of the leading laminate floor manufactories now also have ranges of flooring that also include built in underlay. This underlay is pre-fitted to the bottom of the flooring and is usually of sound absorbing quality. You do not need to install this type of floor a secondary but if you are laying over a concrete sub-floor you still have to lay down a D.P.M. (Damp Proof Membrane) first.
Laminate flooring has been around in Europe for around 15 years and has seen massive growth in the past few years. According to figures from the EPLF , In 2004 over 750 million square meters of laminate floors was sold worldwide this was an inc
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What are Laminate Floors made from?
Laminate flooring is usually made up of four layers:1. Overlay (Wear Layer)
The top wear layer is provided by the melamine resin, a highly wear resistant material that makes laminate flooring so hard wearing. This top layer is very similar to the top layer on counter or kitchen work tops but is usually around 40% stronger. This makes the laminate flooring highly resistant to scratches, burns, dent's, stains, etc.
2. DPL (Decorative Paper) or HPL (Decorative Paper + Add High Strength Paper)
It is the decorative paper which gives the laminate flooring its individual appearance, ranging from highly authentic wood reproduction, ceramic or stone designs. An important thing to look out for when purchasing laminate flooring is to understand the difference between DPL and HPL. We will talk about this latter
3. Core layer
This is made up of either high density fibreboard (H.D.F.). or medium density fibreboard (M.D.F.) This is saturated in resins to make it extremely hard. Most manufactures also add a moisture resistant resin to the core. This is important as it helps keep the flooring protected against moisture penetrating the boards.
4. Stabilizing layer
The bottom layer is the stabilizing layer; this is what gives the laminate floor its stability. It is made up of moisture resistant resins.
Cepco Tool QuikJack QJ1 Flooring/Construction Jack
Amazon Price: $159.94 (as of 10/06/2008)
List Price: $159.95
Big Bully - Fiberglass Long Handle - American Made!
Amazon Price: $29.98 (as of 10/06/2008)
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How is Laminate Flooring Produced
This is where DPL & HPL are different.In the direct-pressure laminate process the decorative covering layer and stabilizing layer are pressed together onto the core layer.
While the high-pressure laminate process, on the other hand, the decorative paper and overlay are pressed onto special high-strength paper first. Only in a second stage is this so-called high-pressure laminate glued to the core layer. This makes the flooring a lot more tougher and more resistant to dents etc.
Alloc Commercial Acacia Laminate Flooring
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How is Laminate Flooring Graded
Apart from the different warrantees that manufactures offer and the difference between DPL & HPL the other thing to look out for when purchasing laminate flooring is industry standard load and traffic categories. These are broken into two different categories and are as follows.Residential
Class 21 - Moderate Loads. Ideal for bedrooms etc.
Class 22 - Normal Loads, Ideal for living rooms etc.
Class 23 - Heavy Loads. Ideal for anywhere in the house (except bathrooms)
Commercial
Class 31 - Moderate Loads. Hotel Rooms, meeting rooms, etc.
Class 32 - Normal Loads. Offices, waiting rooms, etc.
Class 33 - Heavy Loads. Large offices, shops, public buildings.
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Laminate Flooring Types: Oak Laminate
8mm x 3-1/2" Vienna Red Oak Laminate Flooring
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Alloc Domestic Heart Beech Laminate Flooring
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Alloc Domestic Shoreline Beech Laminate Flooring
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Alloc Original American Cherry Laminate Flooring
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Alloc Original Heritage Cherry Laminate Flooring
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Alloc Original Japanese Cherry Laminate Flooring
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Armstrong Woodland Park Cherry Laminate Flooring
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Alloc Domestic Merbau Laminate Flooring
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Alloc Commercial Merbau Symphony Laminate Flooring
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Bruce American Home Merbau Natural Laminate Flooring
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Columbia Columbia Clic Merbau Meadow Natural Laminate Flooring
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Columbia Columbia Click Xtra Mayan Ridge Merbau Natural Laminate Flooring
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Alloc Classic Plank Country Maple Laminate Flooring
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Alloc Classic Plank Select Maple Laminate Flooring
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Alloc Commercial Summer Maple Laminate Flooring
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Alloc Original Elegant Walnut Laminate Flooring
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Armstrong Exotics Yorkshire Walnut Laminate Flooring
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Laminate Flooring Types: Jatoba Laminate
tarkett laminate flooring occasions classic jatoba 3-1/2 x 5/16 x 33
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tarkett laminate flooring occasions modern jatoba 3-1/2 x 5/16 x 33
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tarkett laminate flooring urban luxury classic jatoba 7-1/2 x 5/16 x 51
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Great eBay Prices On Jabota Laminate Flooring
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Quick-Step Elegance 8mm Wenge Laminate Flooring
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Quick-Step Perspective 4 Sided 9.5mm Wenge Authentic Laminate Flooring
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tarkett laminate flooring occasions wenge 3-1/2 x 5/16 x 33
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Alloc Original Wenge Laminate Flooring
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Wilsonart Classic Tiles Cordoba Laminate Flooring
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Berry Floors Tiles 31 Tomette Laminate Flooring
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bhk of america laminate flooring accent tiles 7-1/2 x 5/16 x 7-1/2
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bhk of america laminate flooring accent tiles corsa 7-1/2 x 5/16 x 7-1/2
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bhk of america laminate flooring accent tiles rimini 7-1/2 x 5/16 x 7-1/2
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Great eBay Prices On Tile Effect Laminate Flooring
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Laminate flooring was first introduced into the USA in 1982, and has since experienced double digit growth at the expense of other flooring materials. Their popularity lies not only in their ability to withstand heavy wear and tear, but also due to the ease with which they are installed and maintained. Since their introduction, laminate floors have undergone many improvements due mainly to advancements in laminate technologies. Most notable of these improvements was the introduction of glue less laminate floors which has resulted in a floor that can be installed today and walked on tonight. Glue less laminate technology has opened the door to the DIY enthusiast, by offering a product that can be installed with the aid of a manual and no specialized experience.It is important to allow time for laminate floors to acclimatize to their environment prior to installation. Laminate flooring expands and contracts, some more than others, and needs to stabilize to the room temperature in which they are to be installed. Failure to do so can result in the boards shrinking creating gaps, or expanding and creating peaks. The amount of time required to acclimatize varies by manufacturer, however a period of 48 hours is usually sufficient for most laminate flooring brands. It is not necessary to remove the laminate floor boards from their packaging during the acclimation process. See manufacturer's specifications for recommended guidelines.
Start off by preparing the area in which you plan on installing your laminate floors, by sweeping and inspecting the floor for undulations or protrusions. One of the advantages of laminate flooring is that they can be installed over floors that are uneven; however the presence of a high or low spot can cause the joint to loosen, resulting in floor boards that squeak when walked upon.
There are two types of locking mechanisms available, the click system and the tap and lock system. Each system requires a slightly different method of installation and may require different tools. If the manufacture specifies the use of a tapping block, be sure to buy their recommended brand, as they are calibrated for individual floors.
When installing a laminate floor in the kitchen or bathroom, ensure that the laminate you purchase has water resistant tongue and grooves. Many laminate manufacturers use some form of water repellent on the joint mechanism, usually an impregnated parafine wax or silicone. It is a good idea to use a waterproof adhesive
Tools For Install Laminate Flooring
Cepco Tool QuikJack QJ1 Flooring/Construction Jack
Amazon Price: $159.94 (as of 10/06/2008)
List Price: $159.95
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RotoZip XB-LF1 Laminate Flooring X Bit, 1-Pack
Amazon Price: $12.48 (as of 10/06/2008)
List Price: $16.36
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Big Bully - Fiberglass Long Handle - American Made!
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Books And Guides About Installing Laminate Flooring
Flooring 1-2-3: Expert Advice on Design, Installation, and Repair (Home Depot ... 1-2-3)
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Laminate Floors 1 2 3
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Laminate Flooring Installation Video Examples
How to Install Westhollow Laminate Flooring
iFLOOR.com shows how to install Westhollow Laminate Flooring yourself.
Laminate Flooring Care And Maintenance Easy Tips
For General Maintnance
Cleaning laminate flooring is very simple, dirt and dust, are easily removed with a vacuum or broom.For more difficult-to-remove soil, use a cloth moistened very lightly with with plain water. Then wipe the surface with a clean dry cloth. Under no circumstances should the floor be wet mopped.
Heavier stains may be removed with manufacturer recommended laminate flooring cleaner available from most online flooring retailers.
Never use soap solutions, waxes, sealers, polishes, or any abrasive materials.
Protect the laminate flooring in high traffic areas and from excessive tracking of outside dirt and soil with mats at all entrances.
Protective felt pads on chair and furniture legs are recommended to further protect the floor.
Occasionally, things may become "stuck" to your floor, such as gum or candle wax. This situation is best handled by letting the spot harden completely, then scraping it gently off the floor with a plastic scraper. Residue can then be removed using a clean rag damped with a little manufacturer recommended cleaner.
You should allways Do:
Wipe up spills immediately
Use door mats and throw rugs outside room entrances and in front of kitchen sink and refrigerator to help keep dirt and grit off your floor, and to prevent damage and excessive wear.
Place runners and area rugs along high traffic areas.
Move heavy appliances and furniture by using a dolly rolled over plywood or pressed board.
Use furniture leg protector pads under all furniture legs.
You should allways Don't:
Don't use any of the following products on your floor: ammonia based cleaners, acrylic finishes, wax based products, detergents, bleach, polishes and oil soaps, or abrasive cleaning soaps.
Don't allow water to stand on your floor for any length of time.
Products For Laminate Flooring Care And Maintenance
Dirt Devil 083414 Extreme Power Stick Vacuum
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MysticMaid G3101MM Mystic Mop and Pad, White
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Dirt Devil 08230 Ultra Power Handheld Vacuum
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Rejuvenate Clean & Revive Neutral Floor Cleaner Concentrate
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Your Opinion Is Important!
Well folks, and this guide is finished! ...for now :) Please leave your thoughts about this guide and tell me if this was helpfull.
Thank you for your visit.
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WritingforYourWealth
Who knew you could buy flooring from Amazon? ;) Cool lens! Posted August 26, 2008 |
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d-artist
great informative lens! I found my answer...thanks! 5*s Posted July 25, 2008 |
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beempa
What a great Lens! I love these types of lenses that deal with the home. Very informative and a 5* rating deserved! Thank you for taking the time in putting this together! Both my husband and I really enjoyed this. :) Posted June 24, 2008 |
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newsgirl
This is the best site i ever seen about laminate floor. Thanks for sharing it with us! Posted May 29, 2008 |
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iLove
great information here for my house renovation. Good stuff. Posted May 10, 2008 |