Laminate is a flooring material you’ve seen and walked upon a thousand times or more. From residential spaces like busy kitchens to lobbies, waiting rooms and offices, laminate is a true leader when it comes to flooring.

That’s because laminate is a cost-effective solution that’s downright durable compared to some of its common competition. Add in the fact that modern laminate comes in tons of looks that can mimic more expensive materials like natural hardwood and stone and you may be singing the praises of laminate to anyone who will listen.

 When it comes to choosing laminate flooring though, understanding the thickness required for your space, as well as how it can impact your installation, long-term durability and maintenance routine is vital though. Laminate thickness isn’t something most novices are too familiar with, however.

The good news is that we’ve put together a handy guide to help you understand more about laminate flooring and laminate thickness in general. Keep reading to get a grasp on choosing laminate flooring for your space today.

How is Laminate Flooring Made?

Laminate flooring is crafted using a multi-layer approach that provides a tough, resilient surface for commercial and residential use. Through heating and high-pressure, these layers are fused together to create flooring that’s incredibly durable and designed to last for a very long time with minimal care.

With laminate flooring, four layers are generally combined to create the product you’ll use in your space. Here’s how those layers look on their own:

•   Bottom layer (4). Sometimes referred to as the backing layer, the bottom layer of laminate flooring provides stability to the completed laminate board.

•   Inner core layer (3). The inner core layer, which is the thickest of all four layers, is typically made from MDF (medium-density fiberboard), HDF (high-density fiberboard) or particle board. This is the main structural component in vinyl flooring and makes up a significant amount of the weight of a vinyl plank or square when you hold it in your hand.

•   Wear layer (2). The wear layer, typically made of melamine, is put in place to help the complete construction of your laminate tile or plank resist wear. Most wear layers are coated to help prevent water damage as well.

•   Decorative layer (1). This is the layer that you see when walking on a laminate floor. It may be designed to look like wood, natural stone or have a completely unique pattern.

What is Laminate Thickness?

The concept of laminate thickness can be a confusing one. If you’re new to laminate flooring, you’d probably guess that this measurement is the total depth of a laminate plank or tile.

The reality is that laminate thickness is measured in millimeters and defined by the thickness of the inner core layer only. The cladding on some laminate planks shouldn’t be added when measuring the total thickness of any given material. While you can find a variety of products on the market today, laminate flooring is between 6mm and 12mm in thickness, with 6mm styles being quite thin and 12mm designs on the very heavy side.

Why is Choosing the Right Thickness for Laminate Important?

Most people imagine that ultra-thick laminate flooring must be the best, most durable option. While this sounds true on the surface, the fact is that thickness isn’t the only factor when it comes to durability. In fact, super-thick laminate flooring isn’t that much more durable than a well-made thinner product in most cases.

What thicker laminate flooring provides is a different look and feel than thinner laminate material. This may or may not be the look that you’re after.

When it comes to durability, a firm, strong inner core layer is by far the most important aspect – much more important than thickness, in fact.

Advantages of Thick Laminate Flooring

12mm thick boards and an AC3 durability rating for high residential and light commercial traffic. Featuring Lamton Laminate – Marquis Collection. SKU: 15272202

Now that you know ultra-thick laminate flooring isn’t indestructible, there are still a few advantages of thick laminate to be aware of. Those include:

•   Thick laminate can withstand extremely high foot traffic better than thinner laminate of the same quality on average. This is particularly important for high traffic commercial spaces.

•   Very thick laminate can feel more like other flooring materials, including natural wood. This may be of great importance to you if you choose a laminate product designed to mimic another material like wood flooring.

•   Heavy, thick laminate can reduce environmental noise, which can be a big benefit in high-traffic spaces and sensitive environments like doctor’s offices or health care facilities.

•   It can be a little more forgiving when it comes to installation. This is key if you’ve got a very difficult space or you’re considering doing the installation on your own without professional help.

Disadvantages of Thick Laminate Flooring

Thick laminate flooring is often a great choice for both residential and commercial spaces. There are a few disadvantages to be aware of though. Those include:

•   Cost. Thicker laminate tends to be more expensive than thinner laminate flooring. In some spaces, this added cost may not be worth it to you.

•   Environmental impact. Thicker laminate flooring may take longer to degrade, and since it requires more material, it does pose more environmental difficulty. However, in spaces where long-term durability matters, the extra environmental impact may be offset since the laminate will likely stay in place longer.

Advantages of Thin Laminate Flooring

The beveled edges provide a realistic and natural hardwood appearance. Featuring Lamton Laminate – 7mm AC3 – Freedom Collection. SKU: 15274534

Thick laminate flooring is often a go-to choice for builders and designers. Thin laminate flooring has its place too, however. Here are some of the advantages of using thin laminate flooring:

•   Cost. Thin laminate flooring will cost considerably less, making it an excellent choice for budget-conscious buyers. It’s also a smart buy for back rooms or stock areas where customers won’t go in commercial spaces.

•   You can install thinner laminate over the top of existing concrete. This makes installation much easier. Installing thin laminate over concrete also results in very durable flooring that may rival thicker laminate on top of a different type of subfloor.

•   It’s a better environmental choice since less material is used to make thinner laminate. This is especially true for light-use spaces where durability isn’t a major concern or you’re dealing with a concrete subfloor that provides more than enough strength.

Disadvantages of Thin Laminate Flooring

Thin laminate flooring, as cost-effective as it can be, isn’t right for every project. Here are some of the disadvantages you’ll want to keep in mind if you’re thinking about installing it in your home or place of business:

•   It’s harder to work with than thicker laminate flooring. This is very important if you’re considering a DIY installation in your home.

•   Thin laminate thrives on a solid subfloor and is often best on top of concrete. Subfloors that are perfectly level can leave your thin laminate vulnerable to peeling and damage.

•   It may not last as long in high-use spaces. Over time, lots of foot traffic can wear down thin laminate flooring, leading you to replace it more often.

•   Thin laminate may not feel as good under your feet as thicker laminate. Many people describe thin laminate as having a somewhat plastic-like feel underfoot. This may not be a problem in high-use spaces or work areas, however.

Which Laminate Flooring Thickness is Best for Me?

Right before ordering laminate for a residential or commercial space, many people have one basic question: What is a good thickness for laminate flooring for my intended purpose. Like most things, it truly does depend on the application.

Here are a few common laminate thicknesses and what you should know about them:

•   6mm laminate. A more cost effective option of laminate flooring. It is also more environmentally friendly and can be installed over concrete. That being said, it isn’t as durable and shouldn’t be used for high traffic areas or commercial applications.

•   8mm laminate. Slightly better durability than 6 or 7mm, but it might not have the same pleasant feel as 10mm laminate. It is also a cheaper option than the thicker planks, but depending on the application it might need to be repaired more often.

•   10mm laminate. Often considered the sweet spot when it comes to laminate thickness, 10mm laminate offers durability, a good feel underfoot and low noise even in high-traffic spaces. Reasonable pricing generally makes 10mm laminate a smart buy as well.

•   12mm laminate. Extra-heavy 12mm laminate offers many of the same benefits as 10mm laminate, though it typically costs a little more. 12mm laminate is often reserved for high-traffic commercial spaces like hospitals since every bit of durability matters in such busy spaces. Budgets also tend to be higher for long-term commercial projects, so the price difference is often less of a factor.

Shop All Sized Laminate at BuildDirect!

Choosing the right laminate thickness, plank size or tile width can be tricky. After all, you just want your space to look and feel great. The good news is that our trained representatives are here to help.

With all laminate sizes and styles available, we can help you find the perfect laminate flooring option for your home or business. Reach out today and we can help you get started.

The post Laminate Flooring Thickness Guide – All You Need to Know appeared first on Learning Center.

Over time though, even tough laminate can start to look a little worse for wear. In some cases, this is due to difficult conditions like a high-moisture area, exposure to heat or improper installation. The good news is that a fix is almost always possible. Use this guide to learn more about how to repair a damaged laminate floor.

Fixing Scratches and Finish Damage

Laminate flooring is known to be durable enough for even the most heavily-trafficked residential and commercial spaces. Scratches and finish damage can still occur even if your laminate flooring material has a very high abrasion class rating. After all, there’s only so much abuse even the toughest materials can handle.

In most cases, scratches, scuffs and finish damage can be repaired with relative ease. A simple laminate floor repair kit, which you can obtain online or in many hardware stores, is pretty much all you’ll need. Here’s how to use one effectively:

Step 1:

Find the repair kit that most closely resembles the look of your laminate floors. If you’re shopping in person, consider taking an extra piece of laminate with you when buying your repair kit to match it up by eye.

Step 2:

Test the marker, crayon or colored putty that comes with your repair kit in an inconspicuous area first. While your repair kit coloring may appear to be correct, you could find that it’s not the best fit once you’re home. If the color is correct you can proceed to the next step.

Step 3:

Gently clean the area where you need to make the repair. Dust and debris can impede the repair process.

Step 4:

Fill in the scratch or damaged area using the marker, crayon or colored putty. Avoid using more than you need if you’re working with colored putty. You may need to add color in layers or go over your scratched area multiple times if you’re working with a marker or crayon.

Step 5:

Use a fine grit sandpaper if needed to make the filled-in area flush with the rest of your floors. Work carefully to avoid scratching other parts of your floors in the process.

Step 6:

Clean the floors once they’re level and you’re happy with the overall color. Follow any manufacturer’s instructions if they guide you to use a certain type of cleaning product like acetone.

Step 7:

Apply varnish over the repaired area if instructed by the kit. Finish with fine grit sandpaper once the varnish has dried if instructed by the manufacturer.

Repairing a Water Damaged Laminate Floor

Laminate flooring is made to last, and one of the main benefits of using it in your kitchen or bathroom is the fact that it’s resistant to water. That doesn’t mean it’s waterproof though. If water is left to sit on your laminate floors or damage from a leaking pipe beneath your laminate planks occurs you’re likely looking at replacing at least a section of your floors.

The good news is that replacing a part of your damaged laminate floor shouldn’t be an overwhelming procedure. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you fix your floors after water damage has occurred:

Step 1:

Locate the wall nearest the damaged plank or planks. Remove the molding here. This will give you access to any planks leading to the damaged area.

Step 2:

Work your way to the damaged plank. You can do this by disassembling the locking system on planks that connect to the damaged area. You’ll know the planks are unlocked when you remove the tongue of one plank from the groove of the adjoining plank.

Step 3:

Repeat step two until you’ve reached the damaged plank. This could mean removing multiple planks to get to the damaged area depending on your space.

Step 4:

Pull the damaged plank and replace it with a new one. Make sure that it is locked in place before re-assembling your flooring, locking each plank in place as your work your way back toward the wall.

Step 5:

Finish by replacing the molding you had to remove to fix your damaged laminate floor.

Pro Tip:

Reaching a damaged plank that’s in the center of a large room can be time consuming. While it is possible to drill out a damaged plank without removing others around it, this procedure is best left to a trained professional since it requires experience and special skills to perform properly. Trying this procedure on your own could damage multiple surrounding planks, leaving you with a costly repair job.

Tackle Buckling and Lifting Laminate Floors

Buckling, lifting laminate floors can be confusing for the average homeowner. While laminate is very strong, there are a number of reasons it can buckle or lift over time. Water damage, a lack of acclimation before installation and an expansion gap that’s too small or non-existent are common culprits. High temperatures may also be to blame.

Use these steps to help you assess and repair buckling and lifting laminate floors.

Step 1:

Figure out why your laminate floors got damaged in the first place. Problems like water damage and high heat should be addressed and fixed. If a poor expansion gap is the problem you’ll want to avoid making the same mistake when installing new laminate.

Step 2:

Remove the molding or moldings near the damaged laminate. You’ll need to do this to access and remove the planks.

Step 3:

Carefully uninstall the laminate that leads from the wall and molding to the problem area. If these planks are in good shape they can be re-used later if you don’t damage the locking system.

Step 4:

Remove damaged planks and replace them with new ones. Lock your new planks and continue working backward toward the molding and wall. Be careful to leave an appropriate expansion gap near the wall.

Step 5:

Replace the molding to finish the job. Apply any touch up paint needed if the molding was damaged during your repair.

Pro Tip:

Order and keep extra laminate flooring handy so you can quickly replace damaged planks. By ordering more now you can ensure that your replacement laminate planks will match perfectly with your older ones.

Repairing a damaged laminate floor doesn’t have to be a huge job that requires professionals. For small tasks like replacing a plank, you’ll likely be able to do the work yourself in an afternoon. Bigger jobs may require more time and patience, but with a little fortitude, you’ll realize that laminate is an ideal material to be working with.

Want to go for an upgrade instead of replacing old, damaged laminate? We can help you get ready to update your floors with brand new laminate in a range of looks to fit traditional, transitional and modern homes. Easy to install and ultra-durable, laminate flooring is an excellent choice for practically every room in your home.

Contact our trained professional representatives to learn more about adding new laminate to your home or getting essential replacement materials for repairs.

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Understanding laminate flooring underlay can seem tricky, but a little information goes a long way toward choosing the right material. Use this guide to ensure that the laminate flooring you pick for your home looks and feels spectacular for years to come.

What is Laminate Flooring Underlay?

Laminate flooring underlay, often referred to as underlayment, is a thin sheet of material installed on top of your subfloor. This material is installed to act as a durable base for your top layer of laminate.

During the installation process, your laminate flooring underlay will be installed before the flooring material you have chosen for your project.

Why Do I Need It?

Properly chosen laminate flooring underlay is useful for a variety of reasons. First, underlay provides proper protection for your laminate by providing proper support. This cushioning also helps to even out your floor, helping to create a solid foundation for your laminate material.

Underlayment also impacts sound transmission, which can be particularly important when you’re installing laminate in an upstairs room in a residential space. The laminate flooring underlay you chose also affects the R-value of the overall flooring installation.

Know Your Subfloor

Choosing the correct laminate flooring underlay material often starts with evaluating your subfloor. That’s because different subfloor types have different potential issues that proper underlayment can help address.

Here are the two most common types of subfloor you’ll encounter in your home:

Concrete

Concrete subfloors are strong and sturdy, but because they are porous, moisture issues are a big concern. This is particularly true in older homes. With this type of subfloor, you want underlayment that forms a solid barrier between moisture and your laminate flooring material.

Plywood

Plywood is a natural material that is slightly porous. However, because plywood is all-natural, it needs more air exposure than concrete. With a plywood subfloor, some underlayment options with a vapor barrier can cause moisture to be trapped in the plywood. If this happens, your subfloor could mold, rot or become unstable over time.

Laminate Flooring Underlay Types

Choosing the right type of laminate flooring underlay can be a bit confusing when you’re taking on a home build or renovation. Knowing about the four standard types can help you pick the right option for your room.

Here’s a quick guide to the four most common types of laminate flooring underlay material:

Basic Foam Underlayment

Ideal for plywood subfloors, basic foam underlayment is typically made of polyethylene or polypropylene material. This material does not have a vapor barrier layer, making it ideal for plywood subfloors that need to breathe. It’s also a very cost-effective option.

Combination-Style Underlayment Options

Combination-style underlayment includes both a foam layer and a water vapor barrier layer. Use this style of underlayment if you have a concrete subfloor. Note that some combination-style underlayment can be used in any room, even if you have a plywood subfloor. However, it is slightly more expensive, and may not be required when working with plywood.

Cork Underlayment

Cork is sometimes used as an underlayment material for laminate flooring. However, the cost is significantly higher. Avoid cork underlayment to reduce costs unless noise reduction or antimicrobial properties are a major concern for your project. Cork may also be a poor choice for wet rooms unless additional layer of plastic is installed.

Felt

Some installers consider felt to be the best option for underlayment. Heavier and easier to work with, it is soft underfoot while providing excellent noise reduction and heat retention. Felt has few drawbacks other than cost, though it may not be as effective at fighting moisture in wet spaces like a full bathroom.

Pro Tip

Carpet padding often comes up when underlayment is discussed. While it works well for carpet flooring material, it is too heavy and thick for laminate. Using carpet padding as laminate flooring underlay may lead to loose floor joints that you feel as you walk over time.

Choosing Your Underlayment: Special Considerations

Still not sure which underlayment style is ideal for your project? Here are a few special considerations to keep in mind:

•  You live in a cold climate. R-value matters in cold climates. Combination-style underlayment, felt and cork all aid in heat loss reduction.

•  You’re installing laminate in a wet room. Mud rooms, bathrooms and kitchens are all considered wet spaces. In these rooms, you need underlayment with a water vapor barrier. Combination-style underlayment is typically the best choice for these areas.

•  You want more noise reduction. Cork and felt are ideal choices when you need more noise reduction if they work for your subfloor, project and budget.

If you choose to use laminate flooring in multiple rooms, you can mix and match your underlayment material as well. Doing this can help you get the right material for your subfloor, room type and any special considerations required for your project.

Consider Laminate Flooring with Included Underlayment

On today’s market, you can find laminate flooring with pre-installed underlayment. This type of laminate typically works well in homes with plywood and concrete subfloors. It can also take the guesswork out of choosing underlayment, though you may pay a bit extra for this all-in-one style flooring.

Note that wet rooms like bathrooms and kitchens may require laminate flooring with included underlayment specifically designed for maximum moisture protection. Check with the manufacturer or reach out to one of our representatives if you’re considering all-in-one laminate material for a wet space.

Looking to learn more about laminate flooring underlay and the general process of installing this ultra-durable material in your home? Check out our informative blog post to see what questions you should ask when considering laminate flooring for your house.

Our qualified representatives are also here to answer all of your flooring-related questions. Don’t hesitate to reach out when you need a little help with your building or renovation project.

The post Choosing the Best Laminate Flooring Underlay appeared first on Learning Center.

The kitchen is one of the most-used rooms of the home and as such, it needs kitchen flooring designed to hold up to the daily wear and tear of life. Grease splatters, spilled food, and melting ice cubes are just a few of the daily occurrences the floors need to hold up to. When trying to decide whether to install vinyl plank flooring or laminate flooring in the kitchen, it is essential to understand the pros and cons of each option.

Kitchen Flooring: Vinyl Plank

Vinyl plank flooring provides the look of hardwood but the durability you need to use it in high-traffic areas of the home, such as the kitchen.

Cleanliness

Vinyl flooring is easy to keep clean with a simple mop or a steam mop. Because it is waterproof, you don’t need to worry about using water to clean vinyl flooring. Vacuum the floor with a vacuum intended for hard floor surfaces between cleanings for light touch-ups.

Maintenance

One of the best aspects of vinyl flooring is how low maintenance they are. There is no need to ever wax or polish vinyl flooring, as you would with traditional hardwood flooring.

Vesdura Vinyl Planks – 8.5mm WPC Click Lock – Monterey Collection / SKU: 15257623

Pet-Friendly

The waterproof and scratch-resistant qualities of vinyl plank flooring makes it a great choice for homes with pets. Not only will it hold up to the claws and activity of your dogs or cats, but it is also incredibly easy to clean up any messes that occur.

Durability

Rushmore / 7mm / WPC / Click Lock SKU: 15269378

Vinyl plank flooring is desired for its long-lasting durability. Although it generally holds up to daily wear and tear without signs of damage, it can be scratched or dented if heavy furniture or appliances are dragged across the surface. Vinyl flooring offers the added benefit of being completely waterproof, which means there’s no fear of damage caused by spilled water from the refrigerator or dishwasher.

Sizes

Vinyl plank flooring comes in two standard widths. The 4-inch width provides a more traditional look while the wider 8-inch widths are a great choice for larger spaces. Each plank measures 48 inches long. All it takes is a metal straight edge and a razor knife to cut the planks down to size for installation.

Installation

Vinyl plank flooring is incredibly easy to install. In fact, all that you need to cut the product down to size is a sharp utility knife and a metal straight edge. This product comes in two installation types. Floating vinyl floors offer a tongue and groove design that allows them to click together with a few strikes of a rubber mallet. Some vinyl floors are even peel-and-stick in nature, eliminating the need for clicking various pieces together. The peel-and-stick variety can even be used to create an eye-catching accent wall or stand-out ceiling.

Kitchen Flooring: Laminate

Like vinyl planks, laminate flooring provides the look of hardwood at a fraction of the cost. This durable alternative may provide the same overall look but there are some distinct differences between vinyl and laminate flooring.

Cleanliness

A simple steam mop is all it takes to clean laminate floors but don’t reach for a traditional mop and bucket. The amount of water applied by a traditional mop is likely to damage the floors.

Lamton Laminate – 12mm Legendary Collection / SKU: 15162377

Maintenance

Over time, laminate flooring can lose its original luster. Restore the like-new look to your laminate floors by using floor cleaners specifically designed for the product. There are also some laminate products available that can help to reduce the look of chips and scratches that may occur.

Durability

Laminate flooring is designed for durability but it does tend to show signs of wear over time, especially in high-traffic areas of the home. You can expect to see light scratches and chips or damage along the edges and corners. Unlike vinyl, laminate flooring is not waterproof and any standing water could cause the planks to bubble or warp.

Pet-Friendly

Laminate is considered a very pet-friendly product as long as the pet is house broken. Any standing accidents are likely to cause damage because laminate is not waterproof. Prevent scratches by making sure to trim the nails of your pets regularly.

Sizes

This flooring option comes in a wide variety of widths from which to choose, starting at a traditional 4 inches and extending to an incredibly wide 16 inches. They arrive in your choice of 36-inch or 48-inh lengths.

Installation

Laminate floor is designed as a floating floor. The tongue and groove design makes it easy to click each piece into place. When installing this product, use a circular saw or hand saw to ensure precise cuts without damaging the flooring.

Protect New Floors with Area Rugs and Orthopedic Mats

Much of the time spent in the kitchen is spent standing at the stove and the sink. Protect the floors from spills and splatters by adding cushioned mats to these key areas. Not only are they softer on the knees, but they will also help to prevent your floors from fading or becoming stained in these areas.

With so many different vinyl plank and laminate flooring options available at Build Direct, it is easy to find a color, size, and style that speaks to the overall design of your kitchen. Keep the look cohesive and make an open concept home appear larger by extending the flooring you choose to the surrounding rooms as well. If you choose vinyl plank flooring, it can even be extended to bathrooms and laundry rooms. Both products can be installed as a weekend warrior project or passed off to the professionals. No matter which one you choose, you’ll have a luxurious floor that provides the look of hardwood while holding up to hundreds of meals cooked.

The post Kitchen Flooring: Vinyl or Laminate? appeared first on Learning Center.

Your pets are part of the family. Keep your home looking great year after year by choosing a flooring with pets in mind. You certainly want to choose something designed to hold up to the fur and claws and everything else that comes along with your furry family. Before you decide on the right flooring for you home you need to consider the overall design of the space. This and room use will ensure you select a product designed to meet the needs of the space while enhancing the overall style.

Hardwood flooring is beautiful, but it is also costly and prone to pet damage. The natural wood scratches easily and does not hold up to any moisture, making small accidents enough to create lasting damage. Luxury vinyl flooring and laminate flooring both provide the look of hardwood at a fraction of the cost. These man-made alternatives come in the same fashionable colors and textures you look for in the real thing. The best way to determine which one is best for a space is to take a closer look at each one and compare their benefits and drawbacks.

Maintaining Vinyl Flooring with Pets

Luxury vinyl flooring is manufactured to look just like hardwood flooring or ceramic tiles. This makes it an ideal choice for any style of home. Vinyl plank flooring is affordable, waterproof, and incredibly durable. The design is so resistant to moisture, that it has become a go-to choice for flooring in kitchens, bathrooms, basements, and homes with pets or children. Spilled water dishes and the occasional accidents are easy to clean without a trace of damage when you install luxury vinyl planks or tiles in your home.

Prevent Scratches

Although overall very durable, vinyl flooring is susceptible to scratches over time. One of the best ways to keep vinyl scratch-free is to clean it regularly with a hard-floor-approved vacuum and mop. Remove dirt and grime to prevent those items from scratching the surface of the floor while pushed across it with a broom. If there is an area that is particularly high-traffic, such as the front door, lay down an area rug with a mat beneath that helps prevent shifting.

Restore Shine

Like with any flooring, vinyl floors have the tendency to dull over time. You should not expose vinyl floors to wax or solvents. Instead, use a lamb’s wool bonnet on a mechanical buffer every once in a while, when it is necessary.

Maintaining Laminate Flooring with Pets

Laminate flooring is manufactured to provide the look of hardwood at a fraction of the cost. Unlike vinyl, laminate flooring is not fully waterproof. If there are accidents or water bowl spills, clean the mess promptly to avoid damaging the floor or causing the material to swell. Most laminate flooring is not well suited for pets. However, a few styles of laminate floors are specifically designed to accommodate the needs of pets. Putting a waterproof mat beneath the pet’s litter box or water bowls will help prevent moisture damage.

Improve Traction

Most laminate floors are smooth in finish. Their smooth, slick finish can cause pets to slip, especially if they run across the floors. If traction is a problem, adding area rugs with a rug pad underneath can help to soften the floor and provide sure footing for your pets. Choosing a laminate floor with a more matte or distressed finish will also help to improve traction for your pets.

Prevent & Treat Scratches

Laminate flooring features a veneer on top of bottom layers that provides the look of wood. Help to prevent deep scratches that reveal the bottom layers by selecting a laminate floor product that offers a thicker veneer. This means you can buff out small scratches with a light sanding without damaging the look of the floors. Work with a small-grit sand paper in light passes until you buff the scratch out.

Keeping Flooring Clean with Pets

A life with pets means hair and dirt on your hard floors. Keeping your laminate or vinyl floors looking great for many years to come requires regular cleaning. A vacuum designed for use on hard floors will help to remove dry debris and pet hairs from the floor every day or two. Once a week, mop the floor to provide a deeper clean. Make sure to use a product designed for the type of floors you install.

Pets can bring an incredible joy to a home, but they also bring a few basic requirements. Ease of cleaning, chances for scratches, traction, and moisture damage are all considerations in choosing the best flooring for homes with pets. Both laminate and luxury vinyl flooring are great choices but if the pet is prone to accidents, luxury vinyl is the way to go. No matter which option you select, make sure to look at the specifications of the product and choose the most durable option.

The post Vinyl vs. Laminate Flooring with Pets appeared first on Learning Center.

When you’re renovating your kitchen, sorting through all the available flooring options can be tough. Many homeowners seem to gravitate toward laminate for its many benefits. Before deciding whether laminate is the right choice for you, delve into this complete list of the pros and cons of installing laminate in the kitchen.

The Pros of Laminate in the Kitchen

Pro: It’s Aesthetically Pleasing

Laminate is considered to be one of the most versatile flooring options for the home. Part of the appeal is that laminate comes in such a diverse range of styles, colors, and patterns. You can choose laminate wood colors that give you the authentic look of hardwood. Rather than having to stain your floors to the right shade, you can simply browse through hundreds of different colors to get the ideal match for your home.

When choosing laminate, you can also go for contemporary or timeless styles. You can find sleek, modern-looking laminate planks and tiles as well as rustic and antiqued versions. Many manufacturers have branched out beyond faux wood floors to offer different colors of laminate flooring, including some that look like stone and metal. Having many aesthetically pleasing options allows you to more easily give your home a makeover that feels personalized, stylish, and unique.

Pro: It’s Cheaper Than Tile and Natural Stone

For many homeowners, the most appealing feature of laminate is its affordable price. Laminate is often sold for as little as $3 per square foot. This price is much cheaper than many other flooring options. For example, when you do the hardwood vs laminate cost, comparison you will find hardwood to be up to five times more expensive.

Laminate flooring offers savings on installation, too. Many types have no nailing, gluing, or stapling required. Instead, the laminate tiles or planks snap together to form a floating floor. In many cases, you don’t have to do anything to the existing floor; you can simply install your laminate on top. Many homeowners are able to tackle this installation on their own and save thousands of dollars on the labor costs required to install other types of flooring.

Pro: Generally Less Defects

Laminate is made to look as realistic as possible while eliminating the defects associated with other types of flooring. For example, with hardwood or natural stone flooring, you may occasionally get pieces with unusual color or pattern variations. These pieces can look out of place on the floor. Homeowners either have to compromise on aesthetics or pay more for replacement pieces that fit in better with the rest of their flooring. Not so with laminate that offers proper wood like flooring options, among others that mimic the look of different natural materials.

When you choose laminate flooring, you’ll get pieces that look as realistic as the real thing but without the unusual defects that can be associated with other flooring types. The colors and patterns are consistent throughout since manufacturers can more easily control the product quality when they make laminate tiles and planks.

Pro: It’s Durable and Easy to Maintain

A clear wear layer is included on top of every piece of laminate flooring. This layer protects the floors from scratches, stains, and fading. Even in areas with abundant foot traffic (such as a kitchen), laminate can hold up quite well. The wear layer adds a level of durability that you won’t find with other types of floors.

The wear layer also creates a smooth, easy-to-clean surface on your laminate floors. Homeowners simply need to sweep the floors regularly to keep them clean. Occasionally, you can use a damp mop for a deeper clean.

The Cons of Laminate in the Kitchen

Con: Possibility of Moisture Damage

Laminate is susceptible to damage when exposed to moisture for extended periods of time. If you occasionally spill water or another liquid on the floor, it’s no big deal. As long as you clean up messes when they occur, they won’t damage your floors. If moisture sits on your laminate floor for an extended time, the dampness could warp and stain the flooring.

Take precautions to prevent moisture damage on your laminate floors. Wipe up any spills quickly and place a rubber mat under pet water dishes. If you mop your floors, wipe them with towels once you’re finished rather than letting any remaining moisture air dry.

Con: It Can’t Be Refinished

Once your laminate floors wear out, they can’t be refinished. Instead, you’ll have to replace the flooring. Since the flooring is assembled with snap-together tiles or planks, you may want to purchase extra pieces that you can insert only if particular areas of your kitchen floor start to wear out over time.

This drawback also has a silver lining. Laminate generally lasts about 15 to 25 years. Some laminate floors may look good for up to 30 years. Since the kitchen tends to be a high-traffic area in the home, look for high-quality laminate if you’d like your flooring to last for 20 years or more.

Con: Eco-Friendliness

If you’re committed to choosing environmentally friendly materials for your kitchen renovation, laminate may not be the best fit for you. Laminate flooring doesn’t degrade well in landfills, partially due to the wear layer which contains plastic. Some laminate flooring options are also made with chemicals such as formaldehyde which can release volatile organic compounds (VOCs). These VOCs are toxic gases that may have adverse health and environmental effects.

In recent years, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has released updated guidelines that require reduced VOC content in laminate flooring. While material containing reduced VOC content is safe to use in your home, it may not be great for the environment overall.

Some versions of laminate flooring are more eco-friendly options than others. Review the following items you want to look for if you want to get laminate with fewer environmental impacts:

• Choose laminate made from sustainably sourced and recycled materials. Some flooring types are approved by the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC). This type of flooring uses wood from sustainably managed forests.
• Find out whether the design has been printed with water-based low-VOC inks.
• Opt for laminate that can be installed without the use of glues or adhesives, materials which may include VOCs.

This list may make you rule out laminate as a possibility for your kitchen. On the other hand, it could make you more confident that laminate is the best choice for your home. Be sure to consider your needs and personal budget when you decide whether laminate is the right fit for your kitchen.

The post The Pros and Cons of Installing Laminate in the Kitchen appeared first on Learning Center.

When you’re looking for budget-friendly, easy-care flooring options, vinyl and laminate are often the first two suggestions you’ll get. While these two types of floors have much in common, they have a few key differences. You should consider these when deciding which one to install in your home. If you’re not sure whether to choose vinyl vs laminate, use this guide to help you make the right decision for your needs.

Vinyl Flooring Pros and Cons

Vinyl flooring is made from 100 percent plastic. This composition gives it superior resistance to moisture. When water sits on vinyl floors, even for extended periods of time, it won’t damage the surface. Vinyl’s water resistance makes it an excellent choice for rooms that are prone to moisture. For example, kitchens, bathrooms, laundry rooms, and basements.

3 Main Types of Vinyl Flooring

Pros

Some types of vinyl flooring are waterproof. For example, wood plastic and polymer composite (WPC) vinyl is waterproof. This is thanks to its composition of thermoplastics, wood flour, and calcium carbonate. It can be installed in areas where high moisture levels are present. Other waterproof vinyl floor options include stone plastic composite (SPC) vinyl, made from natural limestone powder, polyvinyl chloride, and stabilizer. It is also known as rigid core vinyl. You can install it over many types of flooring as a floating floor. When considering moisture exposure, in the vinyl vs laminate debate, vinyl flooring is a clear winner.

Historically, many people considered vinyl aesthetically inferior to laminate. Now, however, vinyl has come a long way when it comes to style choices. You can find vinyl flooring that mimics the look and feel of stone, tile, and even wood floors with realistic accuracy.

Cons

Vinyl has a longer lifespan and better overall durability than laminate. Don’t forget to factor in your budget, however. Vinyl flooring may be more expensive than laminate flooring, especially if you choose luxury vinyl flooring. Although it can last twice as long as laminate, vinyl flooring may involve a larger upfront investment.

Laminate Flooring Pros and Cons

Laminate is a synthetic product that simulates the look of real hardwood. It can have an authentic wood floor appearance that make it popular with homeowners who like the style of hardwood but want to spend less money on flooring. Although it is a budget-friendly flooring type, laminate does not perform well when it comes to moisture. Some types of laminate have water-resistant properties, but these flooring options are not waterproof and will become seriously damaged if water sits on them for an extended period of time.

Pros

One of the major benefits of choosing laminate flooring in the vinyl vs laminate debate is the comfortable feel underfoot. You may not think of this feature as a significant factor in your decision about which flooring type to choose, but the underfoot feel can have a big impact on whether you enjoy walking on your floors day in and day out. Laminate has a thicker composition that includes wood content, which helps it to feel warmer and slightly soft. Vinyl, however, tends to be quite hard and cold to the touch, so it’s generally not the best choice for main living areas and bedrooms.

Many homeowners prefer the look of laminate to that of vinyl. Although both flooring types come in a range of styles, colors, and patterns, laminate typically features better imagery or embossing that gives the floors a more realistic look. Generally, homeowners will choose laminate over vinyl for highly visible areas of their homes, such as entryways, living rooms, and dining rooms.

Cons

Unfortunately, laminate flooring doesn’t last as long as vinyl. In many cases, laminate floors need to be replaced within 10 years of installation. The upside is that the initial cost of laminate floors is sometimes lower. If you’re on a tight budget, laminate flooring allows you to give your floors a fresh new look for less money. Be sure to save up for the eventual replacement floors if you plan to stay in your home for a long time.

Vinyl vs Laminate: The Similarities

To summarize, vinyl is a better choice when you need water resistance, lifespan, and durability in your flooring. Meanwhile, laminate is preferable if you want a more stylish appearance, lower costs, and a comfortable feel underfoot.

Despite their differences, laminate and vinyl are also similar in a number of ways, including the following:

• Ease of Installation: If you need a foam underlayment for laminate or decide to install vinyl sheeting, you may need the help of professionals to complete the installation. However, both laminate and vinyl come in planks that lock together as a floating floor or almost any type of subfloor, giving you the option for an easy DIY installation with either flooring type.
• Maintenance: Vinyl and laminate are both easy to keep clean. Simply mop, vacuum, or sweep as needed. You don't need special cleaning products or machinery to keep these floors in good shape.
• Eco-Friendliness: Both types of flooring have environmentally friendly options available for purchase. If you want to go "green", look for vinyl with a LEED credit EQ4.3 for Low-Emitting Material or laminate that qualifies for LEED MR4c 4.1-4.2 (Recycled Content) status.
• Cost: Laminate is sometimes found at lower prices compared to vinyl. This depends on what type of style and features you're looking for. With vinyl vs laminate, the price is relatively comparable. Both are considered to be two of the most budget-friendly flooring options.

Decide your main criteria for your new floors. Is it more important to get waterproof flooring or something that looks more like real wood? Do you care more about the feel underfoot or the lifespan of your new floors? Use this guide to help weigh the pros and cons when choosing between vinyl and laminate flooring. These tips should help you to make an informed decision and improve the appearance and value of your home.

The post Vinyl vs. Laminate: What’s the Difference? appeared first on Learning Center.

A  B  C  D  E  F  H  I  L  M  O  P  R  S  T  W 

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AC Rating/Abrasion figure/Abrasion classification

The abrasion figure is the figure which describes the abrasion of laminated flooring. The so-called Taber-test produces these figures, which are attached to abrasion classifications according to the new Euro-standard EN 13329. This is an important part of the performance classification of a laminate floor. The resistance to abrasion is one of many factors to determine the quality of laminate flooring.

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Balancing foil

This is the layer under the substrate protecting the same from moisture and contributing to form stability.

Bleaching resistance

This describes how a laminate floor will react when exposed to light. “No. 6 on the blue scale” means that a floor will keep its coloration even when exposed to extensive sunlight.

Build-up of laminate flooring

Laminate flooring has a three-layered build up: 1. decor paper + overlay, 2. substrate, 3. balancing foil. The decor paper, overlay and the balancing foil are impregnated with special thermosetting resins, which are pressed onto the substrate using high pressure.

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Castor chair effect

This is a special feature of floorings. It is tested by dragging loaded, soft chair rollers over the surface, measuring any damages after a set time of several thousand movements.

Cleaning and maintenance

The pore-free closed surface of laminate flooring allows for problem-free cleaning. Simply vacuum, sweep or wipe – finished. If you wipe, sweep only using a damp cloth.

Cigarettes burns resistance

Describes the behavior of a laminate flooring towards cigarette burns, insuring the high temperature resistance of the totally cured resin-impregnated, pore-free surface. There will be no visible damages through cigarette ash and stubbing out of cigarette butts.

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Disposal

All laying leftovers of laminate flooring can be disposed off together with the normal household garbage. Complete decommissioned floors however should be brought directly to a waste disposal site where they will rot, because they mainly consist of wood.

Decor/Decor layer

This is the name for the visual appearance of the surface of a laminate flooring. The motif is produced via photo-technical reproduction and printed via rotary printing on so called decor-paper. The spectrum of decors encompasses through the photo-realistic wood-grain re-productions, rock formations, to ceramic and fantasy decors. Once the finished and impregnated decor paper is pressed onto the substrate together with the overlay, decor-paper plus overlay are called decor layer.

DPL

Abbreviation for Direct Pressure Laminate, which characterizes a technique in which decor layer and balancing foil are directly pressed onto the substrate.

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Edge gaps

Distance to the wall, which has to be observed when laying laminate flooring. The so-called elasticity joint ensures that the floor can contract or extract when climatic changes occur. The distance to the wall should be minimum 8 mm which should also be observed when heating pipes, door frames, or pillars etc. are involved.

Emission classification

A term, which is very often used in product information. E1 means that the formaldehyde emission limit decreed by law of 0.1 ppm (= 0.12 mg/m3 air) is observed.

Environmentally friendliness

Laminate flooring is made 80% of timber. It contains formaldehyde. The emissions however are minor and well under the legally allowed limit of 0.1 ppm (= 1.2 mg/m3 air), the so-called E1-limit. Laminate flooring can be used without any problems even in children’s rooms.

Euro-standard

The European standard of laminate flooring lists all criteria of high quality laminate flooring and all relevant tests in a systematic and comprehensive order for the first time. A very important part is the performance classifications, enabling the consumer to assess a quality product and to define his or her own requirements.

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Floor heating

Laminate flooring can, according to the manufacturers’ information, be used on subfloors containing hot water underfloor heating. The relatively small forward resistance enhances the efficiency of the heating.

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HDF

Abbreviation for High Density Fiberboard, which is very often used as substrate for laminate flooring, because of its high material density, giving it a high durability.

HPL

Abbreviation for High Pressure Laminate. This is a procedure in which decor paper and overlay are pressed together with especially strong papers (= kraft papers). Only in the second step this high-pressure layer sheet will be pressed onto the substrate. These additional kraft papers within the layer make the laminate flooring extremely durable.

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Impact resistance

Information how the laminate flooring will react when knocked by any hard subject. When tested, an iron ball is dropped onto the surface.

Impact Sound/Foot Step Sound

Impact sound is the sound that is generated by stepping on to the laminate flooring. Impact sound is different from footstep sound, which is the sound created in space underneath a laminate flooring. The strength of the impact sound is indicated according to the EPLF® Standard of impact sound and is measured in sound values. These sound values are absolute and linear, comparable with each other and can be represented on an objective scale of values.

Inflammability classification

Classification of the inflammability of a laminate flooring. The manufacturer has to produce these classifications. There is often the classification DIN 4102-B1 published in product information, meaning, “low inflammable”.

Installation

Laminate flooring is mostly laid in a “floating” manner, meaning that it is not like a wall-to-wall carpet glued onto the sub-floor. Single panels are integrated with the help of tongue and groove profiles. Please observe the laying instructions of the chosen manufacturer.

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Laminate

Short for laminate flooring (look at “build-up”).

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MDF

Abbreviation for Medium Density Fiberboard, which is often used for laminate flooring and which is lighter than the High Density Fiber-board (HDF).

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Overlay

Describing the top layer of a laminate flooring (also called wear layer) containing corundum-particles, giving a high degree of durability to the floor, protecting the underlying decor.

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Performance classification

Quality category according to the new Euro-standard EN 13329, which defines the area of usage of a laminate flooring. This is divided in the categories “domestic” and “commercial”, which are each split in moderate, general, and heavy usage. These classifications are declared using special symbols on the package of the products. Which products are placed into which classification depends on the following criteria: abrasion resistance, impact resistance, resistance to staining, resistance to cigarette burns, effect of a furniture leg, effect of a castor chair, and thickness swelling.

Pressure resistance

Information how a laminate flooring will behave when furniture, high heels etc. are applied to it, which is a quality criteria for some manufacturers.

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Repairs

Strongly damaged laminate flooring elements can be exchanged by experts in such a way that there will be no visible differences to the rest of the flooring. For repairing small damaged areas repair sets are available.

Resistance to staining

Explanations how laminate flooring will react when substances of the daily life are applied like food, beverages etc. Laminate floorings’ pore-free surfaces can be wiped clean at any time and without any problem.

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Scratch resistance

Allows an insight how the laminate flooring will behave, when scratched. This is a very important quality criterion, which is derived from scratching the flooring with a diamond tipped instrument.

Skirting board

Skirting boards are the finish of laminate flooring towards the wall. The trade offers a great variety of products fitting to the decors of the flooring, amongst them different colored skirting boards, which enable the consumer to achieve stunning visual effects.

Substrate

The middle layer of a laminate flooring made from HDF, MDF or particleboard. Decor layer together with the overlay (top side) and balancing foil (bottom) are pressed on this substrate.

T

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Taber-test

Classical test method to check the abrasion resistance of laminate flooring, rotating a test piece underneath two wheels covered with abrasive paper. Revolutions, type and changing of the abrasive paper are clearly regulated and defined. The number of revolutions until a certain point, the initial point (IP), results in the abrasion figure. The different figures are assigned to clearly defined abrasion classifications.

Thickness swelling

With some exemptions laminate flooring should not be applied in any wet rooms, saunas, or outdoor facilities, because its wooden ingredients can swell under strong influence of water and moisture.

Tongue and Groove

That is the profile construction milled to the panels’ sides allowing the panels to be pushed together. The connection of tongue and groove is responsible for stable floor construction and protects the floor from moisture.

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Walking-noise insulation

Underlay like polyethylene foam, PU-foam, corrugated boards, or foam felt are reducing walking noises especially on ‘floating’ laminate flooring.

The post Laminate Flooring Glossary appeared first on Learning Center.

• What are laminate floors and how are they made?
• What is the difference between laminate flooring and hardwood flooring?
• How do laminate floor panels lock together?
• Where can I install laminate flooring?
• What are the advantages of laminate flooring over those of solid hardwood flooring?
• What do I need to know before I start installing my laminate floor?
• What do I have to do before installation?
• Do I have to keep staggering the planks in my laminate flooring installation?
• How do I determine the direction in which to install my laminate flooring?
• Will there be any cutting waste?
• What is the reason for the necessary 10mm gap left around the perimeter of the interior and around other obstacles within it?
• I didn’t get my first row straight. Can I continue?
• How do I choose the right moldings?
• How should I install moldings?
• What is a floating floor?
• What is HDF and what is it made of?
• How is the paper applied to the HDF core?
• Why is a moisture barrier used on concrete?
• How can I get the shine of my floor to increase?
• Can laminate flooring be installed on steps?
• Can laminate flooring be installed in my screened in porch or patio?
• Can we install laminate over carpet?
• How often do the wood grain patterns repeat on your flooring?
• How do I clean my laminate flooring?
• How do I care for and maintain my laminate floors?
• How do I repair minor scratches?
• What is the difference between a brown core and a green core in laminate flooring?
• How do I replace one plank of my flooring due to damage?
• What is a laminate flooring AC rating?

What are laminate floors and how are they made?

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Laminate flooring is a versatile, durable, attractive flooring product that can take on several different appearances like stone or tile but it’s known mostly for looking like hardwood. Although they look the same, there is actually no solid wood used in the construction of a laminate floor. Laminates are made up of several layers of material fused together under high pressure. Most laminate flooring consists of a moisture resistant layer under a layer of HDF (high-density fiberboard) or MDF (medium-density fiberboard). This is topped with a high-resolution photographic image of a natural wood floor. It is then finished with an extremely hard, clear coating made from special resin-coated cellulose to protect it from wear and tear. Laminate flooring is perfect for anyone wanting a durable floor for a fraction of the price and installation time of a hardwood floor, but with the attractiveness of real hardwood. Laminate is also environment-friendly as it uses less wood in its construction and makes more efficient use of the wood fiber that is used.

What is the difference between hardwood and laminate flooring?

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Both laminate and hardwood flooring can be used to finish homes or provide flooring for offices and businesses. While some people still prefer hardwood, there are several advantages to choosing laminate. Solid hardwood (usually 3/4″ thick) must be installed only above grade to avoid warping and cupping. Laminates, however, are more versatile giving you the look of wood above or below grade. Unlike hardwood, they can be installed over other flooring surfaces, meaning that you can install laminate over old kitchen linoleum or tile, provided the floor is clean, level and doesn’t have moisture problems.

How do laminate floor panels lock together?

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There are many types of edge joining systems used to connect laminate flooring panels together, but most of them use a snap lock mechanism. Some snap together laminate flooring, snap together by hand while others require a light tap with a mallet and a tapping block. Still others use a combination of a “snap” click edge and a “bang” or “tap” click at the end of the panels. While most of the various systems work well to secure your laminate floor, it is important to carefully read your laminate flooring installation instructions. Familiarize yourself with how your flooring locks together before starting your installation and practice on a few pieces.

Where can I install laminate flooring?

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Laminate flooring is an extremely versatile flooring product. It can be installed in virtually any room of your home, above or below ground, over wood or concrete. Keep in mind there are several locations that are not recommended. Because laminate flooring is a wood flooring product it is not recommended that laminates be installed in wet locations such as bathrooms, washrooms, saunas, enclosed porches or verandas, or anywhere that may require wet mopping. Extended exposure to moisture of this type may cause the core of your laminate flooring to warp or swell. Unless, of course, it’s waterproof laminate.

In some instances, with special installation procedures, it is possible to install laminate floors in bathrooms where water will not stand on the floor for any length of time. Other than that, laminate is very versatile: install it in living and dining rooms, kitchens, hallways, foyers, bedrooms, basements, stairs, offices, retail spaces and many other locations.

What are the advantages of laminate flooring over those of solid hardwood flooring?

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Price. Laminate flooring is typically half the cost of traditional hardwood flooring. Sometimes the savings are even greater, depending on the type of flooring in question. And with recent innovations in technology, laminates look more and more like real wood. Laminate is easier to install than solid hardwood and many people can install it themselves without any previous carpentry experience whereas solid hardwood requires a specific level of expertise. With a laminate you won’t need nails and/or glue, as is the case with newer laminate locking systems. Therefore installation happens fast, in way less time than solid hardwoods can be installed and your finished floor will be scratch- and fade-resistant, two areas where solid hardwood is known to be more vulnerable. Whether you choose hardwood or laminate flooring will also depend on personal taste.

What do I need to know before I start installing my laminate floor?

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Think about this before you begin your laminate floor installation:

• Ensure that your subfloor is flat, dry, and smooth.
• Always use underlayment under your laminate floor for soundproofing. Some laminates have underlayment built into the bottom layer, if not, find a good one.
• Laminate flooring and underlayment/vapor barrier can be installed over concrete, wood flooring, vinyl tile, linoleum, tile, or virtually any other hard, flat surface.
• Take extra care when installing laminate flooring over radiant heating. Ensure that you read both the laminate flooring and radiant heat system instructions carefully before beginning.
• Read your laminate flooring manufacturer’s installation instructions carefully.
• Allow your laminate flooring to acclimatize to the room where it will be installed for as long as possible (at least 48 hours) by opening the boxes and letting the laminate stay, uninstalled, in the room.
• Inspect each laminate flooring panel carefully for defects or damage before installing it.

What do I have to do before installation?

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You must acclimate your laminate boards for 48 hours in the room where they will be installed. That means to open the boxes and let the laminate boards adjust to their surroundings. Installation should take place at room temperature of at least 65°F (15°C). A floor surface temperature of 59°F and an overall room temperature of 64°F must be ensured before, during and three days after the installation.

Do I have to keep staggering the planks in my laminate flooring installation?

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The first row should be started with a full plank, the second row with a 2/3 plank and the third row with a 1/3 plank. The distance between joints from one row to the next for the remainder of the installation must be 8″ or greater.

How do I determine the direction in which to install my laminate flooring?

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To decide where to begin the layout of your floor, consider incoming light. It is usually best to install laminate flooring with the planks running parallel to light coming in windows or glass doors. For any installation, the starting wall should be as long and straight as possible.

Will there be any cutting waste?

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In an average installation, approximately 7% to 10% of the total area to be covered will be wasted for several reasons, typically cuts, planks damaged during installation, or errors.

What is the reason for the necessary 10mm gap left around the perimeter of the interior and around other obstacles within it?

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Since the laminate core is derived from wood, it is subject to expansion caused by room temperatures and humidity levels. An expansion gap is a necessary part of any successful installation because it allows space for the expansion of the floor as it responds to these external influences of temperature and humidity. When it is exposed to warmer temperatures, or to increased humidity, laminate flooring planks expand outward. Leaving out the essential element of an outside gap can cause the buckling of the individual laminate flooring planks as the planks push outward against walls or other obstacles.

I didn’t get my first row straight. Can I continue?

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Do not continue. Getting the first row absolutely straight is the foundation – perhaps the most critical part- to a successful installation. If your first rows are not properly aligned, or the joints are not tightly sealed, the entire installation will be compromised. (The error will magnify as you continue installing.) All planks must be parallel to each other along both sides and ends or there will be wedge-shaped gaps between planks. If residue is caught in the grooves, poor alignment can also result. Remember to make sure all grooves are clean before installation.

How do I choose the right moldings?

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Here is a brief guide to moldings and their best uses for a laminate flooring project:

Molding	Usage	Image
Base shoe molding	Used to cover the expansion space left at walls and other vertical surface.
End molding	Used at exterior doorway to finish the space where the laminate flooring ends.
Reducer molding	Used to join laminate flooring to other flooring materials of varying height.
T molding	For use in doorways or thresholds to join two areas of floor on the same height level.
Stair Nose molding	For use in finishing the exposed outer edges of stain and landings.
Quarter round molding	Used in the same way as a base shoe molding, behind cabinets where a low profile molding is better suited to support an object flush against the wall.

How should I install moldings?

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You can glue or nail moldings to the wall only, never to the floor.

What is a floating floor?

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A floating floor is a floor built with all its parts attached, but with none of these parts fixed to the supporting floor. Virtually all laminate floors install as floating floors.

What is HDF and what is it made of?

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High density fiberboard, HDF, is basically a high-density, moisture-resistant fiber panel. It is made of wood residues (sawdust, shavings and wood chips) from wood processing factories. This ligneous material is ground into a pulp to which a melamine-urea-formaldehyde resin is added. This pulp is then dried and pressed into panels.

How is the paper applied to the HDF core?

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The melamine impregnated paper is thermo-fused to the core, topped with an aluminum-oxide wear layer.

Why is a moisture barrier used on concrete?

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Concrete floors below ground are capable of storing a vast amount of water. It is crucial to avoid all direct contact between the laminate flooring and the concrete floor because the soil beneath the concrete can transmit humidity into the floor. Installing a moisture barrier over all concrete surfaces is mandatory for a successful installation and for the ongoing life of your laminate floor.

How can I get the shine of my floor to increase?

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The shine can not be modified as it is a manufactured characteristic. Therefore, you must never wax or polish a laminate floor.

Can laminate flooring be installed on steps?

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Yes, laminate flooring can be installed on steps but with this exceptional installation, the planks should be glued down with regular wood glue. In fact, laminate is a good stair flooring option. However, the moldings and transitions need to be nailed down. You must also ensure this meets your local building code.

Can laminate flooring be installed in my screened-in porch or patio?

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No, laminate flooring must be installed in a climate-controlled area.

Can we install laminate over carpet?

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No, all carpet and padding should be removed completely prior to installation.

How often do the wood grain patterns repeat on your flooring?

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The patterns repeat every 20 planks.

How do I clean my laminate flooring?

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Laminate flooring is a beautiful, low maintenance, long-lasting flooring option. There are several simple steps that you can take to keep your laminate flooring clean and to ensure that you get many years of service from it. Simply dust mop or vacuum with a soft brush or wood floor accessory to keep your laminate floor clean from dust, dirt or grit.

• A damp cloth or mop can be used without damage to the laminate flooring panels, but do not use excessive water. Dry the floor thoroughly with a clean, soft cloth.
• Blot up spills or water from wet feet or footwear immediately with a clean, dry cloth, sponge, or paper towel. Do not allow excess liquid to remain on the surface of your laminate floor.
• Do not use soap-based detergents, abrasive cleaners, or combined “clean and shine” products on your laminate floor.
• Do not use steel wool or other scouring pads that may scratch laminate panels.
• Do not wax or polish your laminate flooring.
• Do not steam clean or use chemicals that may damage the laminate flooring surface.

For stubborn spots or stains on laminate flooring use acetone or nail polish remover on stubborn substances such as tar, asphalt, paint, or oil. Then wipe clean with a damp cloth.

How do I care for and maintain my laminate floors?

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While laminate floors are highly resistant to stains and abrasions, they are not indestructible. In order to maximize the durability and beauty of your laminate flooring, we recommend the following practices as part of your floor’s normal care and maintenance.

• Place a doormat outside the exterior entrances to collect excess moisture, sand, grit and other potentially damaging substances from being tracked onto your laminate floor.
• Use only colorfast and non-scratch carpeting or pads on your laminate surface.
• Avoid sharp or pointed objects with concentrated weight such as high heels on your laminate flooring.
• Use protective felt pads under furniture legs or wide castors under appliance levelers.
• Do not slide furniture or appliances across your laminate floor. If using a wheeled dolly to move furniture or appliances, place a clean sheet of smooth plywood or another protective layer over your laminate surface.
• Rearrange furniture occasionally for increased indentation resistance.
• Do not treat or seal your laminate floor panels after they are installed.
• Never sand, lacquer, or refinish your laminate flooring surfaces.

How do I repair minor scratches?

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Minor scratches or nicks can be repaired with laminate floor repair paste. This can be purchased in most retail flooring stores.

What is the difference between a brown core and a green core in laminate flooring?

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The cores are the same. The green product is a result of a coloring agent added to the adhesive in the manufacturing of the High-Density Fiberboard (HDF) core in response to general market preference.

How do I replace one plank of my flooring due to damage?

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If the plank that needs replacing is close to the edge of the room, simply disassemble the floor to the position of the plank to be replaced and then reinstall the plank(s). There is a more complicated procedure if you need to replace a single hard-to-get-to plank. It’s best to call the company you bought the flooring from and ask to speak to a product specialist for specific instructions.

What is a laminate flooring AC rating?

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AC hardness ratings are a standardized measure adopted by The Association of European Producers of Laminate Flooring (ELPF). The AC measure rates abrasion resistance, impact resistance, resistance to staining and cigarette burns, and thickness swelling along edges. If a laminate floor cannot meet the requirements for each of these ratings, approval for a given AC rating will be denied. AC ratings 4 and 5 are equally suitable for residential use as AC3 but somewhat more suitable for high traffic commercial applications. AC ratings below 3 are recommended for low traffic residential use only. Here is a more detailed guide:

AC1 is suitable for lighter, more infrequent traffic, e.g. a bedroom. AC2 is suitable for general residential use in living rooms and dining rooms. AC3 can be applied to more varied locations, such as high traffic rooms, small offices and other light commercial locations. AC4 can be installed in higher traffic commercial areas such as boutiques, busier offices, and restaurants. AC5 is more durable still and can withstand the traffic of heavier commercial areas such as department stores and public buildings.

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