Since its introduction into the US in the early 80′s, laminate flooring has experienced an unprecedented 20% annual growth at the expense of other floor types. This has made laminate the fastest growing flooring segment in the country. The appeal lies not only in the aesthetic value of its representation of real hardwood, but also due to its incredible durability and ease of maintenance. So, what is laminate flooring?

Although laminate flooring is made to look like real wood flooring, there is actually no solid wood used in its construction.  Laminate floors are made up of several materials bonded together under high pressure. Most laminate flooring consists of a moisture resistant layer under a layer of HDF (high density fiberboard). This is topped with a high resolution photographic image of natural wood.

Laminate Flooring Construction

The process is then finished with an extremely hard, clear coating made from special resin-coated cellulose to protect the laminate flooring.Laminate flooring is perfect for anyone wanting a durable floor for a fraction of the price and installation time of a hardwood floor, but with the attractiveness of real hardwood.  Recent years have seen the addition of tile, stone or other natural surfaces looks manufactured into laminate planking.

Unlike hardwood, laminate floors will not stain, fade, dent and are far more scratch and water resistant. Laminate floors come with cores ranging from 6mm up to 12mm. A thicker core is more stable, less vulnerable to buckling and will sound more like real hardwood when walked on. Good quality cores are treated with water repellent chemicals, and resist swelling due to excessive moisture.

Use of Laminate in Kitchen

This is very important when considering placing laminate wood flooring in bathrooms and kitchen.  For these applications also consider a floor that has Paraffin wax impregnated joints. The Paraffin wax acts as a water repellent and will prevent topical water spills from penetrating down to the core.  Laminate wood flooring offers the best combination of quality and value in a wide range of colors, styles and designs and are also constructed for exceptional strength and durability and will last for years.