Laminate Flooring: Why It’s a Popular Alternative



Do you like the look of a wood floor in a home but do not have the funds to make this upgrade? Perhaps you think a stone floor would look good with your home’s décor, but you don’t want that hard, cold feeling under your feet. If either of these are true, then you may want to consider installing a laminate floor. Over the past few years, manufacturers have experienced a huge surge in the popularity of laminate flooring. Today, companies are creating laminate in a wide assortment of colors and patterns. From stone to tile to hardwood, there is a laminate that faithfully and beautifully reproduces the look you want.

Advantages

The advantages of a laminate floor start with cost. Compared to a genuine stone, wood or tile floor, laminate gives homeowners the most value for their money. Laminate floors are also extremely durable and are an excellent choice for a family with kids and pets. Laminate doesn’t scratch easily. Installing laminate is simple and requires very little surface preparation. This means that you can install it yourself if you choose.

Disadvantages

If laminate is not installed properly, it will have a hollow sound. Also, like all other flooring surfaces, laminate will eventually show wear. If it were hardwood, you could sand and refinish it, but laminate cannot be refinished. It must be completely replaced when worn.

Next, laminate is extremely slippery when wet. It also doesn’t hold up well to standing water. If something is spilled, you’ll want to be sure to put out a wet floor sign and clean up the spill quickly.

Finally, there are those who just want the real thing. They will never be happy with anything less than an authentic wooden floor. If you are one of these people, then laminate may not be for you.

Care

Caring for a laminate floor is simple. You can use a broom or vacuum to clean up dirt, and even use a damp mop if necessary. Unlike hardwood flooring, there is no need to wax a laminate floor. Laminate does not stain, and if you drop something heavy on it, it will seldom ding or scratch. In short, it will look great year after year with very little maintenance.

Every type of flooring has its pros and cons and laminate is no exception. If you have upscale tastes with a discount store pocketbook, then laminate may be the perfect choice for your home. Despite its low cost, laminate is a versatile, durable and elegant alternative.

If you are planning to sell your home and need greater resale value, then laminate may not be your best option. However, if you’re more concerned with appearance than resale value, then laminate can pull together any style and emphasize your own distinctive look.