What Is Laminate Flooring?

What is laminate flooring? What is the construction? What is the durability?  These are all questions that we get asked when it comes to laminate, and we are here to set the record straight. 

Laminate flooring is a popular choice in the consumer market, and comes in a wide range of finishes from wood to natural so you can craft the look and feel of your room. This product is great for entry ways, hallways, and living rooms. 

Is Laminate Flooring Plastic?

Contrary to popular belief, laminate flooring is not made out of plastic. In the early years laminate looked as if it were made of plastic, due to appearance and design being sacrificed for affordability. Now, due to innovative manufacturing, laminate looks as if it is solid hardwood or stone, but is much more affordable.

What is Laminate Made Of?

Laminate flooring is actually constructed of 4 layers; wear, design, core, and the back layer. Each layer serves a distinct purpose and are fused together using high heat and intense pressure. Below is a break down of these layers.

• Back Layer: bottom layer; responsible for protecting the plank against moisture, and balances the floor.
• Core Layer: above the back layer; is a durable, high-density board that protects from indentations and moisture.
• Design Layer: above the core layer; has a high-resolution photograph of the floor’s surface appearance.
• Wear Layer: top layer; is a clear layer that is made of aluminum oxide that protects against fading, stains, and surface burns.

How Durable is Laminate?

Laminate makes for an extremely durable product because of its multi-layer construction. Laminate is resistant to scratch, fade, and is easy to clean. Laminate’s durability allows for the absorption of heavy traffic, making it an ideal flooring choice for active families with kids and pets running around. This product is good for kitchens and baths only if proper precautions are put in place like a moisture barrier, but this product is not recommended for areas with high moisture. With proper care, laminate can look as good as day 1.

Visit your local Flooring America shop for the best in quality laminate flooring.