Laminate flooring photo
/ Published in Laminate Flooring

Laminate Flooring Insights

Laminate flooring is rapidly becoming one of the most sought-after materials amongst consumers. An insight into laminate flooring with its durability, attractiveness, affordability, and convenience of installation. It has become a great flooring option in offices and households.

This type of flooring can be a good alternative to hardwood owing to its wood-grain appearance and similar shape and size of planks. Over and above that, these materials last longer than even the sturdiest of woods. An Insight into Laminate Flooring, the designs on laminate floors are derived from photographic images instead of a physical layer of wood. Hence, consumers can go for the look of any kind of wood, irrespective of price or durability issues.

The make up of Laminate Floors

There are four layers in these types of floors, which add to the durability and look:

  • A melamine, paper or plastic backing layer, which helps in resisting moisture and stabilizing the floor.
  • A water-resistant substrate layer, made up of high density or medium density fiberboard.
  • The decorative pattern layer, responsible for the floor’s realistic appearance.
  • The wear layer or protective top layer which is generally made up of aluminium oxide, and guards against moisture penetration.

The Origin of Laminate 

The development of laminate flooring was initiated in Sweden in the year 1980, and since then, much advancement has taken place. The first company which introduced laminate floors in the Belgian market is UNILIN. Quick-step is UNILIN’s own brand of laminate flooring, with which the company became the first laminate manufacturer in the market.

Sophisticated laminate materials come with a textured look, hence the finish appears realistic from a short as well as a long distance. Materials which are purely original lack these finishes and appear realistic only from a distance. One of the greatest properties of laminate flooring is that it can replicate a great many varieties of wood. Including oak of all colours, walnut, mahogany, Brazilian cherry, pine, ash, maple, hickory and chestnut, amongst others. Laminates can also easily resemble stone; therefore consumers who want their floors to appear in the form of two or more surfaces may use these materials in their homes.

With all its exclusive characteristics, this type of flooring is a brilliant option for those wishing to drape their homes with an authentic and exotic look. Try out Wickes & B&Q for some exclusive laminate wood flooring and other flooring materials, adding to the beauty of your home.