MarilynKelvin: What is Laminate Wood Flooring?

What is laminate wood flooring? Laminate flooring is a hard flooring surface that resembles the look of authentic hardwood floors. Laminate floors are engineered with a wooden fiber core and topped with other materials to increase durability and wear protection.

The Different Looks Of Laminate

Over the course of time, laminate flooring companies have brought in the look of ceramic tile, as well as stone. These three looks offer many unique flooring choices for today's consumer. You can have the stability, durability, and the ease of installation of laminate flooring with classic looks you love.

The Layers of Laminate Flooring

Three main layers are used when laminate flooring is constructed. The outer layer of laminate flooring is often referred to as an image layer (B). This is just what it is, a high-resolution image of wood, tile, or stone. In some laminate floors, you will even find grout lines with the ceramic tile look. This high definition photo is sealed using a resin-based coating (A) containing aluminum oxide. This is top coating is what helps give laminate flooring its scratch resistance, UV ray protection, and other durability properties.

Layers of laminate flooring – Photo Compliments of NALFA

The core layer (C) is the meat of laminate flooring. This core layer most visible when looking at the locking system. It is often made of a highly compressed (HDF), High Density Fiberboard. This is what gives laminate flooring the structure it needs to hold up to every day wear and tear.

The backing layer (D) is the layer that holds the laminate together. Without this layer, laminate flooring would not be stable. This backing layer allows laminate flooring to float, which makes it much more unique than hardwood. The image layer, core layer, and backing layer are the essential layers to make laminate flooring what it is.

Layer (E) is an attached underlayment, which is not present on all products. Some manufacturers offer laminate flooring with pre-attached underlayment to help customers install flooring even quicker! Now that's progressive thinking!

With so many choices in laminate flooring, the decision process is often what slows down the consumer from installing laminate flooring. Laminate flooring is available in a variety of colors and styles, as well as different sized planks. Not only is laminate flooring stunning, but it also makes for a great DIY home improvement project.

Laminate flooring works for consumers looking for a natural look, with the resistance to scratching, denting, and UV rays. Laminate flooring is the perfect choice that will keep your home looking great for years to come.

If you have any other questions, please feel free to ask them in the comments below! We would love to help you!