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Laminate flooring is a terrific man-made substitute for hardwood, stone, and tile. Laminate comes in many variations, from different characteristics including construction, color, thickness, and texture. Here's some more information about laminate floors to narrow down the options!
Laminate flooring is made of 3-4 layers, the wear layer, decorative layer, core, and backing.
The backing, also known as the stabilizing layer, is usually constructed of plastic and provides laminate with strength, stability, and protection from the subfloor.
Compressed wood fibers make up the core layer. This layer provides the flooring's durability and anti-shock properties. The amount of pressure used to form this layer can have various effects on its general use.
High-Pressure Laminate (HPL) is manufactured with a pressure of over 1,000 pounds per square inch, making it more durable and suitable for high-traffic areas. Direct Pressure Laminate (DPL) is made using 300-500 pounds of pressure. This type of laminate is still durable but best for lower traffic areas such as an office space or guest room.
The decorative layer comprises a photo replica of the design that is meant to mimic, usually natural material like hardwood.
The wear layer is a resin coating that prevents fading, wear, and stains. Several melamine or aluminum oxide coatings are commonly used to create this layer.
The AC rating of laminate flooring is a measurement of durability based on abrasion tests, burn resistance, impact resistance, stain resistance, and swelling under moist conditions. The rating is ranked AC1 through AC5. Here are the ratings and intended uses of laminate floors for each category.
There are many thicknesses available of laminate available for different applications. Laminate thickness is measured by all layers, not just the core. It is measured in mm, and sizes include 6mm, 7mm, 8mm, 10mm, 12mm, and 14mm.
Generally, thickness does not translate to quality, considering other factors such as construction and AC rating are essential for choosing the best flooring for the job.
The purpose of plank width is solely cosmetic. There are many options based on what the design calls for. Here are some standard laminate plank widths:
This is another thing that factors into the overall design of laminate flooring. The edge type is how the corners of the planks are cut, each giving a different look when the boards are put together. The other options are:
One of the most significant benefits of laminate floors is the installation process. Laminate does not require nails and glue since it's a locking, floating floor. Each manufacturer has different locking technology, but there are two general types to choose from.
Tongue and groove is the most popular option since it is easy to install and does a great job holding the flooring together. The other option is mechanical locking systems that hold the flooring together, usually with hardware made of aluminum.
Now here are some reasons to consider laminate flooring
For years, ProSource Wholesale of Tucson has made its name providing excellent home remodeling products at a great price. Laminate flooring is just one of our many offerings that stand head and shoulders above the competition.
It's hard to beat our bundled offerings for flooring at wholesale prices with no retail markups. Our personalized services handled by account managers and in-house design associates will ensure you get fantastic customer support as well!
Learn more about our laminate flooring options and start shopping our online catalog below!