Laminate flooring has become an increasingly popular and cost-effective alternative to hardwood flooring. This multi-layered and synthetic floor is constructed with a deeper surface embossing and a high-definition image layer to offer contemporary aesthetics.
No floor solution is perfect in all ways; they come with plus and negative points and finding the best type of flooring is quite a daunting and time-consuming task. Floors selection after considering all the aspects can influence your space’s functionality, appearance, and value. So, In this guide by Flooring Dubai, we’ll be discussing the pros and cons of laminate flooring to let you make an informed decision.
What Is Laminate Flooring?
Technically, Laminate flooring is constructed with a combination of multiple layers that are fused together to form sustainable floorboards. With a top decorative layer, it mimics the look of real wood, stone, marble, tile, and plastic. This composite flooring is categorized into different layers;
Top Wear Layer
The uppermost is a protective plastic laminated and transparent layer that allows the visibility of the high-definition image layer.
Printed Design Layer
This design layer features a high-resolution image of the simulated texture of wood, stone, and marble, enhancing visual appeal.
Substrate Layer
The next is the core substrate layer with a thick section of durable and high-density fiberboards that is firmly sandwiched together.
Padding Layer
The bottom backing layer comes with a soft, thin, and water-resistant underlayment to add stability and comfort to your floors.
Pros Of Laminate Flooring
First, take a look at the beneficial aspects of laminate flooring.
1. Aesthetic and Appearance
Laminate flooring provides the closest replication to real wood due to technological advancements. These floors create a classy and rustic look with its decorative image layer. The uppermost layer includes a printed, high-resolution image that creates the simulation of real wood, stone, plastic, and marble.
Because of recent advancements in this flooring, you can affordably give your spaces the effect of rich and luxurious hardwood floors. Other textured images are also glued down to the decorative layer to give your flooring an incredible aesthetic touch.
2. Offer Versatility
One of the best perks about this flooring is that you have the flexibility to choose different colors, styles, and textures. It is available in multiple colors including white, beige, brown, black, grey, and reddish brown. Also, you can select simple to intricate styles for this floor solution.
In addition to colors and styles, a wide range of textures can be selected including smooth, hand-scraped, brushed, embossed, and oiled. Also, patterns can be selected chevron, parquet, and herringbone that set up an appealing interior base for your home.
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3. Ease Of Maintenance
Maintenance is the key factor to consider while deciding on the flooring. Although it is an alternative to solid hardwood it is a lot easier to aftercare this flooring. These reliable floors don’t ask for specialized maintenance like staining, refinishing, or sanding to sustain their visuals.
Rather you just need to sweep them with a soft broom and occasionally damp mop them to maintain a hygienic environment. Using a simple microfibre mop or a vacuum cleaner will simply clean dust and debris from your flooring, giving it a fresh appearance.
4. Highly Durable
Flooring is a long-term investment so durability matters a lot to save your money in the long run. Laminate flooring comes with an AC rating that determines how durable this flooring is for residential and commercial use. The AC rating is directly proportional to the durability of the flooring.
You can find them in a range of AC1 to AC6 ratings according to the general to heavy wear and tear in your spaces. The higher the rating the higher will durability, and vice versa. So, in this concern, laminate flooring Dubai is a good flooring option to opt for, as it is strong and enduring. Also, combined layers and high-quality underlayment form a core layer to enhance the floor’s durability, protection, or insulation.
5. Affordable Solution
The budget is a top priority to be considered when buying anything from the market. But with laminate flooring, you don’t have to worry about the budget. This flooring is quite a cost-effective option than traditional hardwood floors.
Although it replicates the appearance of real wood, you can get them at highly affordable rates as it won’t be a burden on your pocket. At a considerable cost, it is the best choice for budget-conscious businesses and homeowners. With its rich appearance and low pricing, this versatile flooring will surely meet your standards.
6. DIY-Friendly Installation
Laminate flooring is the best go-to option for those who love to handle DIY projects. This flooring is super easy to fit as it doesn’t require specialized technical tools and techniques to be installed.
There is no need for glue when you choose the click-lock mechanism for installation. You just need to use the necessary underlayment and install adjacent pieces with tongue and groove joinery. Be careful not to damage the corners, otherwise, the plank will not be able to be installed.
7. Lifespan
As we’ve talked earlier, flooring is a long-term investment that even lasts for generations with regular cleaning and maintenance. So, laminate flooring is perfect to meet this requirement, the average time to keep your laminate floor is 15-25 years.
Moreover, it entirely depends on the quality and thickness level of the flooring. A low-grade floor may need to be replaced after around 12 years or a high-grade floor can potentially last for more than 20 years in any residential or commercial space.
8. Best For All Spaces
This type of flooring is equally feasible to use anywhere in your spaces. It doesn’t specify a single place like a kitchen, bathroom, bedroom, or living room. You can use this as the all-rounder flooring option for your living and commercial areas.
Also, it is a versatile option that can be aligned or anchored with any kind of room essentials. Moreover, laminate flooring is also best at enduring the weight of furniture items. You just need to be careful not to drag furniture over it.
9. Suitable For Underfloor Heating
These embossed surface technology floors are an excellent option when it comes to underfloor heating. When selecting, you must choose the dense material for better thermal conductivity. The denser the material, the better it transfers the heat.
The higher density will contribute to the high responsive rate when it comes to underfloor heating, ideal for winter. Underfloor heating is much needed for a family home. Having comfort, warmth, and the essence of coziness is crucial to every space.
Cons Of Laminate Flooring
With plenty of pros, these floors also have some downsides that are explained below.
1. May Look Unnatural
No doubt laminate flooring imitates the look of other wood or stone flooring options, but one can tell the difference whether it’s real or fake, diminishing realism.
2. Hollow Sounding
Although laminate flooring is comfortable to walk on it produces a hollow sound when you step on it barefoot. Using pre-attached underlayment can reduce this sound effect.
3. Zero Refinish Possibilities
This artificially designed flooring cannot be refinished. If on the off chance, this flooring is damaged, it won’t recover rather you will need to replace it.
4. It Is not Biodegradable
The production of this artificially designed flooring involves plastic and petrochemical elements, hence, not environment-friendly and it breaks down as a landfill.
5. Susceptible To Moisture Damage
if anything spills on these floors, they get stained, offering a low level of resistance to moisture and a humid environment. Moisture can ruin the floor’s lower layer and reduce the life span.
In The End!
Laminate flooring is an excellent alternative to a solid hardwood that mimics their rich texture and appearance. Knowing all the plus points and downsides is necessary to make a purchase of laminate floors. Besides considering your personal preferences and area requirements, it is essential to regard the features your selected flooring will serve.
Laminate is versatile, resembles hardwood, easy to maintain, cost-effective, easy to install, and suitable for underfloor heating. In addition to that, don’t forget to look upon the negative aspects it will come with. Conversely, it is unnatural, has a hollow sound, can’t be refinished, and is non-biodegradable. Optimistically, this guide will greatly contribute to making your future flooring purchases way easier.
