What Are Laminate Floorboards?

Blurb: Have you wondered what laminate floorboards are compared to vinyl? Are they superior to hybrid? Let’s unravel the truth behind laminate floorboards in this article! 

What are laminate floorboards? How did they become the best type of flooring at some point in time? How is their overall performance compared to other floor types? 

So, in this article, we’ll go deep into the roots of understanding laminate floorboards better. After your 5-minute read, you’ll be better, more knowledgeable, and will make better decisions with the flooring type you’ll get. 

Key Takeaways:

• Understanding what laminate floorboards are 
• Pros and cons of laminate floorboards 
• Laminate floorboard comparison 
• Installing laminate floorboards 

What are Laminate Floorboards? 

In the simplest and easiest way to describe it, laminate flooring is a combination of melamine resin and fiberboard materials, otherwise known as MDF based. They are designed to look and feel like real timber.

Are Laminate Floors Plastic? 

Contrary to popular belief, laminate floors aren’t plastic. Instead, they are the byproduct of combining fiberboard materials and melamine resin. It seems like it’s plastic because of how it feels, but it’s not. 

What Makes Up Laminate Floorboards? 

You might be wondering about the construction and structure of laminate floorboards. But, don’t worry, we got you! 

Laminate floorboards are composed of four layers: wear, design, core, and back layer, each serving a distinct purpose. 

These are the different layers that make up laminate floors. Thanks to innovative manufacturing techniques, laminate flooring achieves premium appearance without the overpriced price tag. 

Pros and Cons of Laminate Floorboards: What You Need to Know 

Like any other flooring type, you’ll find advantages and disadvantages of using laminate flooring. Some may consider this the prime balance, but some actually look at it more because of how they’re advantageous. 

So, we’ll list down the pros or advantages of using laminate floors and its cons or drawbacks. 

Pros of Laminate Floors

• Smooth and Flawless Surface: Laminate flooring takes pride in its smooth surface without seams and flaws. This makes the cleaning process easier and simpler.
• Easy Cleaning: A dry mop or broom effectively removes dust and dirt from laminate floors. No need for wet mops. 
• Deep Cleaning: For thorough cleaning, you can use hard-surface mops with cleaning fluid, not water.
• Scratch Resistance: Thanks to its durable wear layer, laminate flooring resists scratches, ideal for households with pets and children.
• Affordability: While generally cost-effective, some high-end laminate floors may rival the pricing of solid hardwood or engineered wood flooring.

Cons of Laminate Floors  

• Water Sensitivity: If laminate flooring is left wet for a long time, its moisture-sensitive particleboard construction can swell.
• Moisture Restrictions: Laminate flooring is not advisable for entire bathrooms, laundry rooms, or some parts of the kitchen. They aren’t as suited for places prone to moisture.
• Water Resistance: Laminate is supposedly water-resistant, however in order to avoid water damage, precise board alignment and waterproof baseboards are necessary.
• Vulnerability to Damage: Laminated boards are susceptible to chipping even with a strong wear layer.

Now that we know the advantages and disadvantages of laminate floors per se, let us take a look at how it compares to today’s different floorboard types. 

Laminate vs. Hybrid Floorboards: Understanding the Difference

When it comes to choosing the right flooring for your space, laminate floorboards and hybrid floorboards are two popular options to consider. While both offer durability and style, there are some key differences between them. 

In this section, we will compare laminate floorboards and hybrid floorboards, with a focus on their unique characteristics and factors why people buy them.

How are They Different? 

It's hypercritical to comprehend the distinctions between hybrid and laminate flooring. Fiberboard components covered with a wear layer for durability and scratch resistance is the main component of laminate floors. In turn, they are less expensive and have a similar appearance to stone or hardwood. 

On the other hand, hybrid floors blend the greatest aspects of vinyl and laminate flooring. Usually, they have a stiff core with waterproof and stable qualities, such as stone polymer composite or wood plastic composite. 

This makes hybrid floors ideal for damp environments because it combines the visual appeal of hardwood with the waterproof qualities of vinyl.

Here’s a table that differentiates hybrid floors and laminate floors. 

Step-by-Step Guide to Installing Laminate Flooring

One thing that you need to know about laminate floors is how you can install them. While you would less likely be the one to do the installation, it’s imperative that you learn the process so you avoid getting scammed! 

How to Install Laminate Floors? 

Without further ado, here’s the complete and concise process of installing laminate floors! 

1. Prepare the Floor:
1. Clean and smooth the concrete surface.
2. Check for moisture and levelness.
3. Use a moisture meter and level for accuracy.
2. Gather All Needed Tools:
1. Collect necessary tools like tape measure and saws.
2. Ensure quality materials from trusted suppliers.
3. Take Measurements:
1. Measure room dimensions for accurate flooring calculations.
2. Leave space for expansion and contraction.
4. Install Underlayment:
1. Lay underlayment for padding and moisture barrier.
2. Seal seams as directed by the manufacturer.
5. Lay First Row:
1. Begin against the longest wall with the tongue side facing up.
2. Use spacers for expansion and cut planks as needed.
6. Continue Rows:
1. Stagger joints for stability and aesthetics.
2. Use a tapping block for gentle installation.
7. Finish Up:
1. Cut the final row to fit against the walls.
2. Install thresholds and baseboard molding.

It might seem short and easy, but when you do it, it’s pretty complicated and complex. Don’t underestimate the installation process of laminate floors because it’s slightly deceiving. It sounds and looks easy, but it’s not.

Maintaining and Cleaning Laminate Floorboards

Knowing how to install is one, but learning how to clean and properly maintain hybrid floors is another. 

Proper maintenance and regular cleaning are crucial for ensuring the longevity and beauty of your laminate floorboards. By following these essential tips and techniques, you can keep your laminate floors looking their best for years to come.

1. Regular Sweeping or Vacuuming

To remove loose dirt, dust, and debris, it is important to sweep or vacuum your laminate floor regularly. Use a soft-bristle broom or a vacuum cleaner with a floor brush attachment to avoid scratching the surface.

2. Gentle Mopping with a Damp Cloth

For a more thorough clean, you can use a damp cloth or mop to wipe down the laminate floorboards. Make sure to wring out excess water from the cloth or mop to prevent excessive moisture from seeping into the floorboards.

3. Avoid Excessive Moisture

Avoid using excessive water or wet mops on laminate floorboards, as prolonged exposure to moisture can cause damage. If any spills occur, clean them immediately to prevent water from seeping into the seams between the boards.

4. Use Mild Cleaning Products

When choosing cleaning products for laminate floorboards, opt for mild solutions specifically designed for laminate flooring. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners, as they can dull or damage the surface.

5. Wipe up Spills Promptly

Accidental spills can happen, but it is important to wipe them up promptly to prevent staining or warping of the laminate floorboards. Use a clean, absorbent cloth or paper towel to blot the spill and clean the affected area.

6. Protect from Furniture Scratches

Place felt or rubber pads on the legs of furniture to prevent scratching when moving them across the laminate floorboards. Regularly check and replace these pads to ensure optimum protection.

Conclusion

What have you picked up from this blog? What have you learned about laminate floorboards? Overall, laminate floors offer a fantastic solution for homeowners seeking a durable and stylish flooring option. 

It has its indifferences with other floorboard types, but if you’re just looking for a quick, easy, and a cheap finish that resembles wood, you’re in for a treat. 

FAQ

What are laminate floorboards?

Laminate floorboards are a type of flooring that is created by layering different materials together to form a durable and stylish surface. They often mimic the appearance of natural materials such as wood or stone and offer a cost-effective alternative.

Are laminate floorboards water-resistant?

Laminate floorboards have some level of water resistance and can withstand minor spills or moisture exposure. However, it is important to note that prolonged exposure to water can cause damage to the laminate surface, so it is advisable to clean up spills promptly.

What happens if laminate floorboards are exposed to moisture for a long time?

If laminate floorboards are exposed to moisture for an extended period, they can start to expand and contract, leading to warping and bubbling. This can result in an uneven and damaged surface. It is crucial to avoid prolonged moisture exposure to maintain the integrity of laminate floorboards.

What is the difference between laminate floorboards and hybrid floorboards?

The main difference between laminate floorboards and hybrid floorboards is their water resistance. While laminate floorboards have some degree of water resistance, hybrid floorboards are 100% waterproof. This makes hybrid floorboards a more suitable option for areas prone to high levels of moisture, such as bathrooms or kitchens.

How do you maintain and clean laminate floorboards?

To maintain and clean laminate floorboards, it is best to regularly sweep or vacuum the flooring to remove dust and dirt. For cleaning, a damp mop or a laminate-specific cleaner is recommended. Avoid using excessive water or harsh cleaning solutions that can damage the laminate surface.