Choose laminate by its finish and care requirements, then consider how the kitchen or bathroom will be used. Wood-look flooring and easy cleaning are part of the appeal; prompt spill cleanup and protection from dragged furniture still belong in the decision. Explore the remodeling service.
Laminate in the Bathroom Or Kitchen
For many years, people looked at laminate flooring as a cheap flooring option. They were willing to forego quality for affordability. However, over the decades, laminate has risen from a lower quality option to one of the most popular, best quality flooring options around. The laminate flooring on the market today is not only durable and long lasting, but it also is available in many colors and styles. Many homeowners will be proud to install laminate flooring into their kitchen and bathroom design, and it can bring the look of hardwood that many homeowners love, but can’t always afford.
If you are interested in new flooring and considering laminate, keep the following information in mind:
What Is Laminate Flooring?
Ask the supplier to explain the construction of the exact laminate product you are considering. Review its backing, core, decorative surface and finish, and check whether the product and installation method are intended for your kitchen or bathroom. Do not assume the backing prevents moisture movement or the finish prevents scratches.
The Finish of Laminate Flooring
In addition to the higher quality design of laminate, another reason it has exploded in popularity is its looks. There are now many finishes available, including those that look exactly like wood, ceramic tile and stone. Some of the laminate options available include maple, oak, pine, cherry, teak and chestnut. You can even find laminate flooring that looks like it is beveled or hand-scraped and those that are made in different widths and lengths, just as hardwood is.
The Affordability of Laminate
By now you know that laminate flooring is both durable and beautiful, but it is also very affordable. When you add in the strength and longevity to that, and consider the cost, you will have a tough time not seeing the great value for your money that you will receive. Laminate can often be installed for about half the price of tile or hardwood. The labor costs involved are often more affordable, too. The price of the laminate is dependent on the quality of the laminate. But there are also often sales and discounts given through the manufacturers.
Caring for Laminate Flooring
Review the selected laminate product’s written care instructions before cleaning it. Ask about permitted cleaners, cleaning tools and water exposure, and investigate leaks rather than treating a coating as a guarantee against scrapes, scratches, stains or fading. A generic damp-mop routine does not establish suitability for a bathroom.
In addition, you can do to ensure that your laminate floor looks great for many years to come. For instance, you should make sure that you are placing a mat on the floor at entrances to collect excess moisture and dirt off of shoes. It is important that these mats will not fade or bleed. You should also make sure that you are putting protective pads under any appliances or furniture legs. Any pet in the home should have well-trimmed nails. It is important to clean up any spills as soon as they occur.
To further protect the flooring, it is important to lift, not slide, furniture when moving it. Place a large piece of cardboard underneath it to protect it when sliding. They are available from most flooring companies and online.
Laminate can bring a lot of value to your home, it is affordable, and it looks amazing. This flooring material looks great in the bathroom and the kitchen remodel, as well as throughout other areas of the home. With cleaning, there is no reason laminate flooring cannot last for decades. It will remain looking like new. Talk to your local kitchen and bathroom remodeling company about the laminate options they have during a home remodel.
Compare the appearance with the care routine
A wood-look sample answers an appearance question. Your cleaning habits answer a different question. Make a short list of the finish you want, the cleaning products you already use, and the places where moisture or dirt enters the room. The care guidance for laminate includes dust mopping, gentle cleaning, mats at entrances and furniture protection. Ask about the exact product rather than treating every laminate finish as interchangeable. If you are replacing flooring during a kitchen remodel, bring the floor sample into the cabinet and countertop discussion as well.
Frequently asked questions
How can laminate give a wood-look finish?
Laminate uses a photographic layer beneath its protective surface. The designs described here include oak, maple and other wood looks. Compare the sample with your cabinet finish before deciding which appearance belongs in the room.
What should I do before moving furniture across laminate?
Lift furniture instead of sliding it where possible. Protective pads and a protective layer under furniture are part of the care guidance. Keep that protection on your checklist alongside prompt spill cleanup and entrance mats.
Related planning references
For material suitability and installation instructions, consult EPA material and finish selection and EPA remodeling work practices.
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