laminate flooring

• Flooring
• February 14, 2024

Redefining Floors for Modern Living Spaces With Laminate

Think everyone across the Front Range is installing hardwood in their homes? Think again. Hardwood is lovely … in some homes. It works well, and makes sense.

But sometimes it doesn’t.

That doesn’t mean there aren’t other options. Consider laminate floors.

The growing popularity of laminate flooring in modern homes

Laminate flooring has become increasingly popular in modern homes due to its numerous benefits and versatility. With its realistic appearance and a wide range of styles and colors available, laminate flooring is an excellent alternative to traditional hardwood flooring. It offers a cost-effective solution that replicates the look of real wood while providing durability and easy maintenance.

If you’re in the market for new floors, it’s time to learn more about today’s laminate.

Advantages of laminate flooring: Durability and easy maintenance

Think of everything you want in a floor. You want it to be beautiful. Durability is a must. Easy cleaning would be nice. And how about something long-lasting?

We know people define each of those in different ways, but we would argue laminate floors cover each of these areas in unique ways.

One of the key advantages of laminate flooring is its exceptional durability. Laminate floors are made using a multi-layered construction technique that consists of a wear layer, a decorative layer, an inner core, and a backing layer. The wear layer, which is usually made from aluminum oxide, acts as a protective shield against scratches, stains, and fading. This makes laminate flooring highly resistant to everyday wear and tear, making it an ideal choice for high-traffic areas in homes.

Unlike hardwood floors that require regular waxing and polishing, laminate floors only need regular sweeping or vacuuming and an occasional damp mop. The smooth surface of laminate flooring does not trap dirt or dust, making it easy to keep clean. Moreover, the wear layer acts as a barrier against spills and stains, allowing for quick and easy cleanup without leaving any permanent marks.

Hardwood floors might warp or buckle when exposed to moisture, which is why many turn to laminate floors. The inner core of laminate flooring is made from high-density fiberboard (HDF) or medium-density fiberboard (MDF), which is engineered to repel moisture. This makes laminate flooring an ideal choice for areas such as kitchens, bathrooms, and basements, where spills and humidity are common.

With advancements in technology, laminate flooring now offers a wide range of designs, patterns, and colors, mimicking the look of natural materials such as hardwood, stone, or tile. This means homeowners can achieve the aesthetic appeal of these materials at a fraction of the cost. Laminate flooring also allows for easy installation with click-and-lock systems, eliminating the need for adhesives or nails.

All of this, and a lower price, too. Compared to hardwood or stone floors, laminate flooring is generally more affordable, making it a budget-friendly option for homeowners. Not only is the initial cost of laminate flooring lower, but the durability and low-maintenance features also contribute to cost savings in the long run.

Versatility of laminate: Using it in different rooms and spaces

Laminate flooring has become one of the most popular choices for homeowners and designers alike when it comes to flooring options. Its versatility, durability, and wide range of style options make it a highly sought-after choice for different rooms and spaces within the home. From the living room to the kitchen, laminate flooring offers a practical and stylish solution for any area in the house.

Why? Laminate flooring has the ability to mimic the look of natural hardwood or stone at a fraction of the cost. This makes it a great choice for homeowners who want the aesthetic appeal of natural materials but without the high price tag. Laminate flooring is available in a wide range of finishes and patterns, allowing you to choose from a variety of designs that suit your personal taste and complement the existing décor.

One area where laminate flooring truly shines is the living room. This is often the focal point of the home, where family and friends gather to relax and socialize. Laminate flooring in the living room can create a warm and inviting atmosphere, enhancing the overall aesthetics of the space. It is also highly durable and resistant to scratches and stains, making it ideal for high-traffic areas where furniture and foot traffic may cause wear and tear.

Moving into the kitchen, laminate flooring continues to impress. The kitchen is a high-moisture area prone to spills and stains, and laminate flooring is a perfect choice due to its water-resistant properties. It can withstand the occasional water spill or splatter from cooking without warping or staining, making it a practical and low-maintenance option for this space. It’s also easy to clean, simply requiring a damp mop or cloth to remove any spills or messes.

In bedrooms, laminate flooring provides a stylish and comfortable surface underfoot. It is an excellent choice for those who suffer from allergies, as it does not trap dust, pollen, or pet dander. Additionally, it creates a clean and sleek look that is easy to maintain. Laminate flooring can be easily cleaned with a vacuum cleaner or broom, eliminating the need for extensive maintenance or frequent professional cleaning.

Basements can often be prone to moisture issues, and traditional hardwood flooring is not recommended due to the potential for warping and damage. Laminate flooring is an excellent solution as it is resistant to moisture and can withstand the fluctuating humidity levels commonly found in basements. It provides a beautiful and durable flooring option that can transform an unfinished basement into a functional living space.

Embracing the benefits of laminate flooring in your home

Are you ready for new floors? Could laminate be your solution?

While we find hardwood consistently tops Denver homeowners’ wishlists, in many cases, it just doesn’t make sense. Let your lifestyle direct you, not just your desire for hardwood.

Given today’s technology, laminate is often the perfect solution. Unlike hardwood floors, laminate flooring is less prone to fading and is resistant to moisture, making it suitable for areas such as kitchens and bathrooms. Or maybe you’re budget-conscious.  Laminate flooring is a cost-effective alternative that doesn’t compromise quality or aesthetics. The affordability allows homeowners to allocate their budget to other aspects of home improvement or décor.

Whatever your reason, we believe you’ll be excited by today’s laminate options. Don’t believe us? Stop by today and see our entire line.

We’re sure you’ll find the perfect flooring solution to suit your lifestyle and needs.

• Flooring
• January 3, 2024

The Evolution of Laminate Flooring

Once upon a time, home dwellers didn’t have many options for flooring. They used what they found in nature. They made do.

They found clay held together when they added heat and water. Tile became a staple in many cultures.

They used straw for warmth. They used timber for strength.

But all of that changed as we moved into the industrial revolution. Processing changed everything about the way we lived.

We no longer have to make do with what we find in nature. We can create things with innovative technology.

Synthetic flooring

The definition of synthetic is:

Prepared or made artificially. Produced by synthesis, not of natural origin.

When production sped up, it gave people the opportunity to experiment. In 1860, Frederick Walton tinkered with wood dust, cork particles, and linseed oil, and created what we now call linoleum. Manmade materials rapidly increased throughout the 20th Century as rubber, cork, felt-based, vinyl, and other materials were created.

As we experimented, we learned. Flooring grew tall and wide as we developed exclusive concepts for what worked and what didn’t. We honed our craft on natural materials, and improved them in the lab with synthetic flooring counterparts.

Dr Waldo Semon created vinyl by accident in 1926. He was trying to create an adhesive from polyvinyl chloride to bond metal and rubber. What he got was a flexible, fire-resistant, waterproof plastic we still use today, known as PVC. It also became a wildly popular floor covering that we’re still utilizing today.

What comes around, goes around. In our quest to find better manmade products, we stumbled on a realization that nature sometimes knows best. We’ve fallen in love with wood, granite, marble, and stone. But thanks to technology, we can now marry the two loves together for ingenious products.

The birth of laminate flooring

For many, the concept of laminate flooring is synonymous with Pergo. A Swedish company Perstorp had been experimenting with flooring surfaces since 1923. Pergo spun off its flooring division to create Pergo, now a subsidiary of Mohawk Industries, in the 1970s.

By 1979, the first laminate floorboard was sold, and over the next decade, sales skyrocketed. Technology continued to change, giving way to products that were sturdier, cheaper, and easier to produce.

They became more attractive, taking on the looks people craved, such as stone and wood. They added things like click-and-lock technology to create an ever-growing DIY solution.

Laminate flooring today

The laminate flooring on the market today is a sophisticated and aesthetically pleasing flooring solution. This synthetic flooring material we use today simulates a realistic appearance of hardwood, tile, or stone.

It is composed of multiple layers that are fused together through a lamination process. The typical construction of laminate flooring includes:

• Wear Layer – This is the top layer that protects the laminate flooring from stains, fading, and wear. It is usually made of a clear, durable material like aluminum oxide.
• Decorative Layer – This layer features a high-resolution photograph of wood, tile, or stone that gives the laminate its visual appeal. Advanced printing technology allows laminate flooring to closely mimic the look of natural materials.
• Core Layer – The core layer provides structural stability and is usually made of high-density fiberboard (HDF) or medium-density fiberboard (MDF). This layer is also treated to resist moisture and damage.
• Backing Layer – The bottom layer provides additional support and stability. It is often made of melamine or another moisture-resistant material.

This isn’t the Pergo of yesteryear. Instead, it’s a sophisticated product that is a viable alternative to hardwood, stone, and other products that might not necessarily work in your living environment.

That’s what makes it so appealing to today’s consumers.

What appeals to today’s consumers

If you’re in the market for new flooring, laminate might quickly move to the top of your list. The homeowners we help select laminate love it for many different reasons.

Wide Variety of Styles

Most people shop based on aesthetics. Why have something inside your home if you don’t love how it looks? Laminate flooring comes in a diverse array of styles, colors, and patterns. Whether you prefer the look of hardwood, tile, or stone, you can find a laminate option that suits your aesthetic preferences. This versatility makes it easy to coordinate with various interior design styles.

Cost-Effective

One of the most significant advantages of laminate flooring is its affordability compared to natural materials like hardwood or stone. It provides a cost-effective way to achieve the look of expensive flooring options without breaking the budget.

Ease of Installation

Laminate floors often feature a click-and-lock or tongue-and-groove installation system, making them relatively easy to install, especially for DIY enthusiasts. The installation process usually doesn’t require glue or nails, and many laminate floors are designed to float over the existing subfloor.

Durability

Laminate flooring is known for its durability and resistance to scratches, stains, and fading. The wear layer, typically made of materials like aluminum oxide, provides a protective barrier against daily wear and tear, making it suitable for high-traffic areas in homes and commercial spaces.

Low Maintenance

Laminate floors are easy to clean and maintain. Regular sweeping or vacuuming, along with occasional damp mopping, is usually sufficient to keep them looking new. Unlike natural materials that may require special cleaning agents, laminate can be cleaned with mild household cleaners.

Hypoallergenic Properties

Laminate flooring is a good option for individuals with allergies because it doesn’t harbor allergens like dust and pet dander as easily as carpets. Additionally, its smooth surface makes it easy to clean and reduces the potential for allergens to accumulate.

Resistant to Fading

The top wear layer of laminate flooring is designed to resist fading from exposure to sunlight. This is particularly beneficial in areas with large windows or significant natural light.

Environmentally Friendly Options

Some laminate flooring products are manufactured using eco-friendly materials, and certain brands offer options that are certified by industry standards for sustainable practices. Additionally, laminate floors can be recycled in some cases.

Compatibility with Radiant Heating Systems

Laminate flooring is often compatible with radiant heating systems, providing a comfortable and energy-efficient heating solution for homes.

Is laminate flooring right for you?

There isn’t a right or wrong choice when it comes to selecting new flooring for your home. If you’ve gravitated towards laminate flooring, we’re here to tell you it’s a wise choice.

Laminate flooring can be a wonderful product throughout your home. It offers benefits that hardwood can’t – it’s more water-resistant and less expensive than hardwood. And thanks to technology, it’s more realistic than ever before.

If laminate is right for you, we suggest you stop by and see our complete line of laminate flooring. We’ll help you find the right choice to suit your needs.

• Flooring
• July 24, 2023

Getting Your Tough Questions About Laminate Flooring Answered Before You Install

Want wood floors but know traditional hardwood won’t work in your home? You’re not alone. It’s such a frequent concern that many other flooring products are designed to mimic hardwood – laminate, luxury vinyl, even tile.

Yet laminate often leads the pack because it’s easy to install, low maintenance, and comes in many different styles and colors. Is laminate right for you?

Before you move forward, ask questions. It’s great to know what to expect before you install laminate flooring in your home.

While you might find it easy to answer the easy questions, you don’t know what you don’t know. That’s why, as flooring dealers, we’ve put together a list of questions you might not know to ask, yet are important to the overall structure and integrity of your laminate floors.

Why choose laminate over real hardwood?

If you’ve ever priced hardwood, you know it’s expensive. If you’ve ever lived with hardwood, you know it’s more challenging to maintain than other types of flooring.

Those two reasons are why laminate flooring was created. They are also what drives many homeowners to select laminate over hardwood. Laminate flooring offers the look of hardwood at a fraction of the cost. Laminate is also more durable and resistant to scratches, stains, and fading, and is easier to clean and maintain compared to hardwood. It’s a practical choice for busy households.

What is laminate made of?

Laminate flooring is typically composed of four layers.

The top layer is a wear layer that protects against scratches and stains. Beneath that, a decorative layer gives the flooring its desired appearance, whether it’s wood, stone, or tile. The third layer is a core layer made of high-density fiberboard (HDF) or medium-density fiberboard (MDF), which provides stability and strength. Lastly, there’s a bottom layer that helps resist moisture and adds dimensional stability.

This is where it pays to look around. High-quality laminate can be water-resistant, even waterproof. If you want the look of hardwood with improved functionality, pay attention to what each layer is made of, as it will make a difference.

How long will laminate flooring last?

Lifespan can vary depending on the product’s quality and the foot traffic it receives. On average, laminate flooring can last 15 to 25 years or more with proper care and maintenance.

Choosing a higher quality laminate and following manufacturer’s guidelines for installation and upkeep will help maximize its longevity.

How is laminate flooring installed?

Laminate flooring is often referred to as a “floating floor,” meaning it is not directly attached to the subfloor. The individual planks or tiles interlock with each other, forming a tight fit. Installation uses a click-and-lock system, where the planks snap together. Some installers prefer using adhesive on the edges of the planks.

Following the manufacturer’s instructions carefully is essential to ensure a successful installation. This can also mean the difference between a valid and voided warranty.

Why is it important to have a gap between laminate planks and the wall?

The gap between the laminate planks and the walls is known as an expansion gap. It allows the flooring to expand and contract with changes in temperature and humidity.

Without this gap, the flooring could buckle or warp over time.

The recommended gap size is usually around 1/4 inch, but it’s important to consult the manufacturer’s guidelines for specific requirements.

What if the gap is too big or small?

Laminate is often a DIY choice. If you choose to do it yourself, it’s crucial to install it, paying attention to the size of the expansion gap. If the expansion gap is too big, it increases the chances of moisture getting underneath the flooring. This increases the chances of buckling or having moisture damage the subfloor.

If the gap is too small, it may impede the flooring’s ability to expand and contract properly, potentially leading to warping issues. As the floor expands it will have no place to go but up.

Will laminate warp?

Laminate flooring is designed to be highly resistant to warping. However, excessive exposure to moisture can cause it to warp or swell.

It’s essential to promptly clean up any spills and avoid installing laminate in areas prone to high moisture, such as bathrooms or basements. Using moisture barrier underlayments can help prevent moisture-related issues.

Should the baseboards be removed before installation?

While it’s not always necessary to remove baseboards before installing laminate flooring, it’s often recommended. Removing baseboards allows for a cleaner and more professional-looking installation.

It also ensures that the flooring can expand and contract freely without being obstructed by the baseboards. If you decide not to remove the baseboards, you can use quarter-round molding to cover the expansion gap.

What is staggering, and why should laminate be installed this way?

Staggering refers to the installation pattern where the end joints of adjacent planks are not aligned. Instead, they are offset by a certain distance, creating a more stable and visually appealing floor.

Staggering helps distribute weight evenly across the flooring and reduces the risk of joints coming apart. It’s a crucial step to ensure the integrity and longevity of your laminate flooring.

Can you walk on laminate immediately after installation?

Laminate flooring comes in boxes ready to install. As you click and lock them together, they are joined together and adjust to their new positioning.

In most cases, you can walk on laminate flooring immediately after installation. However, following the manufacturer’s instructions is essential as different products may have varying recommendations. If you can stay off and allow them to cure for 24 hours, all the better.

Keep in mind that while walking on it might not be an issue, excessive pressure can do damage. Avoid dragging heavy furniture or applying extreme pressure until the flooring has fully settled and any adhesive has cured.

Will heavy furniture damage laminate?

There’s a lot of debate around this topic. Laminate flooring is generally resistant to denting and scratching, but heavy furniture can still leave marks or cause damage over time if not properly protected.

To prevent this, use furniture pads or coasters under the legs or feet of your furniture to distribute the weight more evenly. Regularly moving heavy furniture and using area rugs or protective mats can also help prevent damage and wear.

What rooms can laminate be installed in?

Laminate flooring is suitable for a wide range of rooms, including living rooms, bedrooms, hallways, and even kitchens. However, it’s important to note that many laminate products are not recommended for areas with high moisture levels, such as bathrooms or laundry rooms.

If you wish to place laminate in those areas, consider using waterproof flooring laminate options specifically designed for wet environments. Talk with one of our flooring experts to ensure you’re getting a product that can handle moisture.

What questions can we answer for you about laminate flooring?