Making the Best Choice in Laminate Flooring

If you have chosen to install laminate flooring in your home, congratulations!  Laminate flooring is an excellent option and can give your home an amazing look.  It is also durable, long lived and easily maintained.  However, to make the best possible choice for your flooring needs, you'll need to know what types of laminate flooring are available, what construction technique you want and much more.

Construction Techniques

There are two construction methods used to create laminate flooring, both with different benefits.  Making the right choice between the two is imperative to your enjoyment of your new floor, as well as the health of your bank account.

Direct Pressure – Direct-pressure construction is the most common construction method used.  Four layers of laminate are combined under high heat (400 degrees Fahrenheit) and high pressure (600 lbs per square inch).  This is also the most affordable type of laminate flooring currently on the market.

High Pressure – High-pressure construction is a different method used to manufacture laminate flooring.  This method finds two of the layers laminated together separate from the other two. Afterwards, the resulting layer is fused with the remaining two layers.  This provides a stronger flooring material, though it is also more expensive than direct pressure options.

Finishes

In many instances, your choice of finish (or resemblance, if you prefer), is limited only by your imagination.  For instance, if you like the look of exotic hardwoods, you will find a wide range of options currently on the market.  Conversely, if you prefer the look of limestone, granite, marble or even sandstone, you can find these options widely available as well.

Additionally, you'll find tile options on the market that resemble the best of ceramic tiles, as well as other options such as satillo tile and more.  Finally, you can choose from embossed, satin, distressed and glossy finishes over the top laminate picture.  This provides you with exactly the finish that you want, without the worries that can come with other flooring products.