The floor of your home matters a lot. It sets the stage for the entire look and feel of your place. In such discussions, laminate floors often come up as a worthy option. However, have you ever considered the actual pros and cons of laminate flooring? This material is quite versatile and open to modification. However, certain key considerations may want you to explore other options.
Here’s a comprehensive guide to what laminate floors bring to the table – both advantages and concerns alike!
Key Takeaways
- Laminate floors are very durable due to a tough exterior layer and resin coating.
- Almost all laminate flooring lifespan is high and can be increased even more with easy maintenance.
- A single square foot of laminate floor is much more cost-effective than alternatives like hardwood.
- Laminate floors are installed very easily, without the need for complicated setup or procedures.
- One of the best advantages of laminate flooring is the wide variety of designs, textures, colors and imitations available!
What Is Laminate Flooring?
To understand the pros and cons of laminate flooring, we must first understand what they even are. At their core, laminate floors are a synthetic flooring option. They are made from materials like melamine, resin and fiberboard to mimic the appearance of natural materials like wood and stone. Most laminate flooring lifespan is regarded as quite high. This is because the floor itself is made of 4 layers that provide the resistance, visual appeal, and structural stability.
Laminate Flooring Installation Cost
Unlike most flooring options, one of the major advantages of laminate flooring is the cost. Per square foot, laminate floor installation easily falls in the $3 to $13 range. The material itself costs between 1$ to 5$ per square foot. When we consider the average of most American homes, the total cost of getting a laminate floor for your home will easily be under or above ~$3000! This makes laminate flooring one of the most cost-effective flooring options you can consider.
Pros of Laminate Flooring
Discussing the pros and cons of laminate flooring begins with an understanding of what the floor can do for you…
Cost-Effective
Something like quality hardwood floors will cost you anywhere between $6 to $15 per square foot. However, quality laminate flooring is quite affordable, ranging between $1 to $5 per square foot!
Durability
Laminate floors have a tough wear layer. This is formulated to specifically resist scratches and dents, perfect for high-traffic areas!
Easy Installation
Modern laminate comes with a click-lock system. This allows laminate planks to be snapped together without any need for glue or nails. Crafty homeowners can save on labor costs by approaching laminate flooring from a DIY perspective!
Variety of Designs
Whether you want the most specific style of wood or the look of natural stone, laminate floors can cater to your needs! Advances like high-definition imaging and deep embossing have made realistic finishes easy.
Low Maintenance
The typical laminate flooring lifespan is regarded to be quite high. However, some easy maintenance from your end can easily extend this even further. All these floors need is occasional sweeping and damp mopping!
Cons of Laminate Flooring
Less Authentic Look
Laminate floors only mimic the appearance of natural materials like wood or stone. It simply cannot mimic the unique textures and depth of the real material.
Potential For Damage
A typical laminate floor has a wood-based core. If moisture manages to seep into the seams, it may lead to swelling, warping, or mold growth.
Sound and Feel
Acoustics matter a lot. Unfortunately, laminate floors produce a sort of hollow sound when walked on. This material also lacks any natural thermal properties, thus feeling colder underfoot.
Environmental Concerns
Laminate flooring production relies on synthetic materials. This raises environmental concerns as such products are not biodegradable.
Top Brands of Laminate Flooring
Now that you’re aware of the pros and cons of laminate flooring, it’s time to consider the key brands available in this space. All of them offer unique approaches to laminate worth considering!
Armstrong:
Armstrong is known for offering a wide range of laminate flooring that combines durability with style. They focus on providing high-performance flooring that resists scratches, stains, and wear, making it a great choice for busy households. Armstrong’s products are also designed to be easy to install, with many featuring locking systems that simplify the process.
Pergo:
Inventors of laminate flooring. Focus on innovative designs and high-quality products
Bruce:
High focus on durability and aesthetic appeal, especially in mimicking hardwood.
Shaw:
Focus on sustainability leads to using recycled materials for manufacturing.
Mohawk:
This brand stands out for its cutting-edge technology and variety of textures and styles, ensuring that customers can find the perfect laminate flooring solution for their homes.
Final Thoughts
A thorough understanding of the pros and cons of laminate flooring is an essential aspect of decision-making. After all, making a wise decision is the best way to be fully satisfied and happy in the choice you’ve made! The best way to approach laminate floors is this – chart what you want from your floor against the actual realistic cost you can afford. Chances are, laminate floors will not only satisfy your needs but do so cost-effectively and affordably! All you need to do is to reach out to local experts and get the ball rolling!
For high-quality laminate flooring options and expert guidance, visit MyNewFloor.com today to explore their extensive range of products and make your flooring dreams a reality!