There are several choices for laminate flooring products available when deciding to install this type of flooring in your home. The first thing most homeowners do after purchasing their new home is change the existing flooring. With all the different choices of color, style, and durability the decision will not be easy. Like many other products you purchase for the home, you need to decide how much floor traffic and where the flooring is going to be installed before you make a purchase. Doing a little research will save you?time and money while improving the look of your rooms.
Most home improvement stores carry laminate flooring products. The core thickness of this kind of sub-floor covering can range from 6mm to 12mm. The thicker the core means a more natural look. Popular types of this kind of flooring are bamboo and cork. Bamboo has emerged in this flooring market because it is economically efficient and retains 80 percent of its hardness after being processed. Cork has become very popular as well since cork trees do not have to be cut down to harvest the wood. Cork flooring is made from the bark of the tree. Cork is also known for its great sound and insulation abilities.
Installing laminate flooring products can often be done by the homeowner. Floating cork and floating hardwood floors are very common and are done without nailing or gluing the flooring to the sub floor. The most important factor before installing a floating floor is to have the sub floor as level and smooth as possible. This will keep the laminated planks locked into place and keep the floor from squeaking when walking on them. A moisture barrier is recommended also and some laminated flooring has this already on each plank and reduces the amount of time spent installing the product.
Laminate flooring products come in different styles and shapes as well. Planks are the most common type and laminate square tiles can also be installed. Planks come in natural wood colors, stained wood, and distressed wood tones. Laminate squares are often used in the wet areas of the house because they resemble a tiled look. High foot traffic areas would benefit the most since laminate flooring has a long-lasting finishing and is stain resistant.
