Laminate floors have become a popular alternative to authentic hardwood floors for several reasons. For busy households, wood laminate flooring is incredibly durable, scratch, and fade resistant. It will also not be in orbit over time and does not demand the regular maintenance, re-sanding and refinished that certain types of hardwood floors can. In addition, laminate floors mimic the look of hardwood right down to the knotty grains and vibrant shade. If you're considering buying laminate, here's what you should know to help make your decision easier.
Enjoy an Endless Variety of Decorating Ideas
The design possibilities with wood flooring are virtually endless. Whether you love the artistic look of distressed floors, the cozy enchantment of realistic looking planks of hardwood, or the attractive contemporary beauty of Parquet flooring, you'll find that laminate floors can make an excellent impression without leaving a hole in your wallet. With so many decorating options to choose from, you're sure to find a wide range of ways to make any room complete.
Unparalleled Durability for Everything Life Throws at You
Laminate floors are renowned for their incredible durability. Because they are resistant to scratches and scrapes, as well as ordinary wear and tear from foot traffic and fading from sunlight, they make the perfect choice for an on-the-go family. If you have young children, the elderly, or pets in your home, it's a good idea to also add hall runners and area rugs to ease and cushion slips and falls. This will also help to protect your wood laminate flooring against accidental spills and stains.
How to Install and Care for Your New Floors
Unlike traditional wood floors as well as ceramic tile and some other types of flooring, wood flooring can be installed as a do it yourself home project. Although you won't need a professional installer, it's a good idea to consult with a flooring specialty store if you have any questions about installation. Caring for it is also a breeze. Simply dry dust or vacuum regularly and damp mop your floors each week or as needed. If you are concerned about water damage, you can also have a water-resistant coating added to your wood laminate floors for additional protection.
If for some reason yours need to be repaired, the manufacturer generally sells a repair kit which can let you easily mend the damage caused by dents or large scratches. This is an incredibly economical way to save money on your floors versus hardwood floors which must be refinished, or ceramic tile floors which must have professional involved to repair them.
Overall, wood is ideal for budget conscious individuals and families who love the look of real hardwood but want the durability of quality engineered flooring that is built to last. With a wide range of choices, a lower cost than traditional hardwood, and the look you love at a fraction of the price, it's easy to see why laminate floors are one of the most popular choices in today's homes.
Charlie Dima writes out of Earth City, MO about home improvement tips and wood laminate flooring for home design Always looking for the most affordable prices and well-known brands, she finds http://www.carpetone.com/laminate.html to be a good resource.
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