Laminate flooring is an excellent alternative to carpet or vinyl. Comparable in price, it delivers a luxurious feel that is elegant and refined. Easy to clean and simple to install, it should be one of the first options you look at when it’s time for new flooring.
Every Room
When you want a different look in the bathroom or kitchen, consider laminate flooring. In addition to being the ideal choice for family rooms, living rooms and bedrooms, its ability to hold up against some water makes it perfect for areas that are prone to spills and splashes. Install it in the dining room for quick and easy clean-up after every meal. Put it in the bathroom to have the look of wood without the worry. Choose it for homes on slabs where installing wood is a major chore. Finally, choose it for basements where you want an upscale look but need something that can withstand the slightly damp environment.
Affordable
There is a wide range of pricing for laminate flooring, but you can easily find good quality choices that are a very affordable two dollars a square foot. Some businesses will even have special deals where you can get laminate for even less than that. While the higher-end options can easily run five to six dollars a square foot or more, the fact remains that laminate is incredibly affordable. It’s the perfect choice when you need new flooring but are facing budget restrictions. An added benefit of laminate is that it can be installed by the average homeowner without having to purchase expensive equipment or rent power tools.
Choices
There is an incredible range of colors and styles when it comes to laminate. Choose a deep cherry, warm honey or the look of stone for a contemporary décor. Stay traditional with the look of welcoming oak or make the home feel more luxurious with laminate that mimics exotic woods like Brazilian hickory or Hawaiian Koa. Whether you love the raised feel of a heavy grain or prefer pieces that are smooth to the touch, you can find exactly what you’re looking for with laminate.
Easy Installation
Installing laminate is easy thanks to the click-lock application of most brands. Pieces are laid in place, snapped together and then left alone for the small glue strip to cure. A basic saw is needed for cutting the pieces, although a power miter saw is the ideal choice for this. Other tools required include a mallet, shims to maintain spacing along the walls, tape measure and a pull bar.
Low Maintenance
Laminate is known for being easy to clean. It’s not prone to staining or tearing, so clean-up is usually as simple as sweeping the floor and then damp mopping it. Ideal for people with allergies, it’s considered a step up from linoleum.
Laminate flooring is not slick like tile, nor is it cold like tile can be. It won’t stain like carpet or rip like linoleum. Providing you with the great look of wood without any of the problems or expense, laminate is the perfect choice for most homes.
