Bathroom Remodeling Hints :: Laminate Wood Look Flooring
Laminate Wood Look Flooring
Laminate wood look flooring is a better choice if you are firm on having a wood look. Hardwood floors, though practical, in many rooms, are not recommended for bathrooms because .....continued below
Laminate Wood Look Flooring Categories
of the moisture.
If you just have your heart set on the look of wood, laminate wood look flooring is a better choice. Just be advised though, that special installation requirements need to be met. Consult your supplier, and make it clear that your laminate flooring is intended for the bathroom. Not all laminates are created equal, and some will perform in a bathroom better than others. The problem with a laminate floor is not the surface, which may hold up very well, but underneath where water may find its way in.
So what is a laminate floor, and why are they referred to as floating floors?
Well, to explain that, first understand that hardwood floors are just that. They are made out of hardwood. Cherry, oak etc.
Laminates simply mimic wood floors. and usually have a core of medium density fiberboard or a high density wood particle core. The surface part that is visible is actually created from a photograph of a wood floor. This top visible layer is made of a very tough and durable material.
Laminate floors are referred to as floating floors because the boards are glued together, but they are not glued to the floor underneath.
For most areas of a busy household, wood laminate flooring can be a very good choice because:
- Laminate floors can be installed over most any surface
- Laminates are less likely to dent and scratch than other floor surfaces
- Laminates withstand children, pets and high traffic very well
- Laminate floors are easy to clean
- Laminates are a good choice for those who have allergies
- Laminate flooring does not fade
- Laminates may better blend when it meets other flooring in your household since it is very thin
Some people notice a slight noise when walking on laminate floors, because of their floating aspect.
In terms of cost, laminate flooring, if professionally installed could cost as much as hardwood, but many do-it-yourselfers have successfully installed laminate flooring themselves.
If a wood look bathroom floor is your heart's desire, you may be able to install laminate flooring yourself if you are fairly handy. Many suppliers have videos that you can take home to view to see just what the installation process involves. Be sure to follow directions to the letter so you don't void the guarantee.
