Laminate floors have been widely available for consumer purchasing since the early 1980s. Since then, laminate flooring has been a popular alternative to wood, tile, and linoleum. While the low price is a big factor, there are tons of other benefits to buying laminate. It's more durable than most other flooring options and has way more potential for customization. If you're looking for laminate flooring options, you likely have questions. With so many choices available, it's important to know what you should look out for and why.
If you're having difficulty getting started on your laminate flooring project, look no further. Keep reading for the ultimate laminate floor guide, so you know how to choose laminate that's perfect for your home.
Laminate Floors and Foot Traffic Perhaps one of the biggest factors you should take into consideration is how much foot traffic, and what kind of foot traffic, your laminate floors will have to endure. While one of the most common laminate flooring facts is how durable it is, they do still stain and get dirty. If you're looking to put in laminate flooring near an entrance and exit point, be sure that laminate is easy to clean. If you like light-colored laminate, try to find some without texture for easier cleaning. If you don't mind dark colors, it would be wise to use that so you aren't constantly scrubbing your floors. An even better option would be using laminate with a pattern to better hide the dirt from shoes and muddy paws
Laminate Floors and Design Another factor you want to consider is the overall aesthetic of your house. How will your laminate flooring compliment the decor of your home? This means considering the floors in surrounding rooms. You want the flooring in your home to be similar or complementary to each other. Another design tip is controlling the space you have. If you're putting laminate flooring in a smaller room, consider using light-colored flooring to make the room seem larger. You also want to look at the thickness of the laminate boards you plan to install. Thicker boards are more durable, but they also look a lot more realistic.
Laminate Flooring Warranty The last few things you want to consider are all the logistics. They're not as fun as deciding on a color or pattern, but they're important nonetheless. Make sure you get laminate floors with a warranty. Laminate is very durable, but a warranty of 20-30 years will ensure that no mishaps go untreated.
Laminate Flooring Durability You also want to take a look at the AC rating, or wear rating. This is a rating of 1-6, with 1 being the least durable and 6 being the most durable. This rating guide will help you choose the best floors for your home's needs. Not everyone uses their home equally, so being aware of the wear-and-tear of your own home will keep you from getting the wrong kind of laminate, and save you money on cleaning and refurbishing costs.
Laminate Flooring and Logistics Also, consider your installation plan. Laminate floors are easy to install yourself, but if you aren't able, find a flooring store that installs for you or can recommend a great flooring installation service. Last and most important is to take measurements of your home. This way you know exactly how much laminate you need. You don't want to have your heart set on a certain style just to find out the store doesn't have the amount you'll need to get started right away.
Final Thoughts
Now you know all the things you need to consider when buying laminate floors. All that's left is to make your choice and begin your flooring project.
Millennium Floor Covering has been in the flooring business for over 40 years. Give us a call and we can set you up with the perfect laminate flooring for your home.