When was laminate flooring invented?

Swedish flooring company Perstorp are credited with the invention of laminate flooring in 1977 but it wasn't until 1984 that their new product, sold under the brand name of Pergo, was introduced to the European markets.

How popular is it?

Laminate wood flooring has maintained its status as the staple go-to wood flooring alternative for residential use. Tremendous advancements are being made in flooring technology, allowing the best laminate floor boards to resemble solid hardwood more closely than ever before.

What is laminate flooring made of?

Laminate flooring floor simulates wood (or sometimes stone) with a photographic applique layer under a clear protective layer. The inner core layer is usually composed of melamine resin and fiber board materials.

Laminate flooring vs vinyl

Laminate flooring is similar to luxury vinyl planks in its look and method of installation. But the critical difference is that its core is made from wood byproducts bonded with resins and its cheap. Especially if you're opting for stick on laminate.

What colours/types are available?

Tasmanian Oak laminate flooring
The Tasmanian Oak laminate is light in colour for timber laminate flooring, which is well-known as it is easy to match with other timbers, finishes or furnishings. Tasmanian oak is warm, dense and resilient, which means Tasmanian oak is one of the most preferred hardwood for a wide range of applications.White laminate flooring

White laminate flooring
Laminate white flooring is the perfect way for many homeowners to show off the modern look of their home. ... In addition, white laminate gives any space a bright and clean finish that will leave a radiant touch and expansive appearance.

Herringbone laminate flooring
Unlike traditional hardwood floor planks, which are generally 3/4-inch thick, laminate planks are typically 5/16- to 1/2-inch thick. Laminate wood flooring comes in a huge variety of colors and “wood” species, including exotic woods.

Bamboo
While traditional wood is still the most popular design of wood print, bamboo wood flooring is also becoming popular. This means that there is now bamboo style laminate, which is more strand based than the traditional hardwood design.

Darker
Dark hard wood floors have been popular the last few years and are going to stay on trend. This has just started to make its way in laminate flooring. This looks great with light coloured or bright walls.

Neutrals
While going darker is popular, so are greys. It does not matter the shade, tone or tint of grey. Grey may be a neutral and has become a popular choice over the years for floors.

Glossy
There are many, different finishes of laminate flooring from matte to high gloss. Lately, high gloss has become the most popular option.

And laminate flooring on walls is an occassional design option too.

What sizes is it available in?

Laminate is considered one of the toughest materials in the flooring industry. In the past, there was one standard thickness for laminate boards. However you'll see a wide array of options today ranging from 6mm all the way to 12mm.

Laminate flooring for bathrooms

Laminate, is made out of recycled hardwood, so it is not waterproof. Due to its melamine wear layer, it has a tough finish which resists against scratches and may have minor protection against minor water (quick spills).

How long does it last?

With this wear layer along with proper care, laminate floors are very durable and can last up to 25 years. The average lifespan for laminate flooring is between 15 and 25 years, but it can vary from as short as 10 years to as long as 30 years.

Can you install it DIY?

Most DIYers can complete laminate floor installation in one day. ... Planks can be cut with a hand saw, circular saw or flooring cutter, and most laminate flooring comes in planks that simply snap together with a tongue-and-groove system, making it quick and relatively trouble-free.

How much does it cost?

The average installation cost of laminate flooring ranges between $2 and $8 per square foot. This cost usually includes the cost of underlay and adhesives that may be used. Depending on the type of project - like adding snap together laminate panels - this may be suitable for DIY.

Pros and cons

Advantages of laminate flooring:

1. Affordability

2. Extreme resilience

3. Beautiful appearance

4. Simple maintenance

5. Easy installation

Disadvantages of laminate flooring:

1. Cannot be refinished

2. Not moisture-proof

Where can I buy it from?

1. LAMINATE FLOORING - HELVETIC LAMINATE - OAK VENETO

$24.00/SQM

Colour: OAK VENETO
Boards Per Pack: 9
Coverage Per Pack: 2.40sqm/pack

2. Aged Copper Oak - Mohawk RevWood

3. Amazone - Carpet Court

Featuring long and narrow planks, an Amazone floor oozes with elegance. It harnesses the natural beauty of timber with micro bevel edges and embossing, plus a range of sophisticated surface structures. Available in six carefully curated patterns and hues, Amazone can be fashioned to meet all of your interior design needs. Boasting an AC5 abrasion rating and a Use Class of 3 3, Amazone is so sturdy it will maintain its beauty even in heavy traffic commercial spaces.

Sarah Buckley

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