Many people choose flooring laminates based upon price, though material should also be taken into account. There are a number of different laminate materials to select from including wood, plastic, and parquet. Aside from budget considerations, laminate flooring selections can be narrowed down by reviewing each type of material individually.
Wooden laminate flooring is a popular choice, since it is cheaper than real wood. Laminate wood is composed of thin layers of wood, wood veneer, and an acrylic finish. In order to ensure durability, it is best to purchase thick wooden planks. If wood laminate fades or becomes scratched, sanding and buffing methods can be used in order to restore luster.
Plastic flooring laminates are not as popular as wooden laminate, though this material can be versatile. Plastic laminate flooring is made from fiberboard that contains an imposed photo image design. Thus, there are many different plastic laminate designs to select from. Plastic materials are not ideal for bathroom areas, since this material retains a large amount of moisture.
Parquet floors have been frequently used around the globe for many decades. Any type of wood can be used in order to create this type of floor, though older parquet floors are generally made from oak wood. Small squares of parquet are usually placed in opposite directions in order to create an interesting pattern. This type of laminate can be used in most spaces, and it is relatively durable.
Before selecting flooring laminates, there are a couple of things to think about. First, decide whether or not you want your room to look larger or smaller. Darker floors will create an enclosed appearance, while lighter floors will make a room seem larger. Then, think about the amount of foot traffic your new floors will receive.
While most types of flooring laminates can withstand heavy traffic, thinner materials may not last as long. Next, make sure to take into account the type of household that you live in. If you have children or pets, softer flooring options might not be a good idea. Also, be sure not to overlook the aesthetic appeal of flooring laminates. Some laminates will withstand the test of design time, while others may quickly become outdated.
Finally, review your budget. Budget is important, but price shouldn't be a deciding factor when it comes to flooring laminates. If your budget can be increased to include a floor that has a longer life expectancy, then stretching your budget will be worthwhile. A floor should last for many years, which is why quality often outweighs price.