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Are you looking for a cost-effective yet durable flooring solution for your home? If so, you may be reviewing some of the top options on offer from your local home improvement centre. One of the more common options to consider is laminate.
As one of the more popular options, laminate is one of the most common flooring Melbourne homes are boasting with. What exactly is laminate flooring? This post answers that question and also explores the reasons why this durable option should make it to your shortlist.
What Exactly is Laminate Flooring?
Essentially, laminate flooring is a multi-layer product that resembles the overall appearance of natural materials such as stone and the more popular, timber. For the most part, laminate is made up of a high-density fibreboard core that provides strength and stability.
This core is then topped with a decorative layer of a high-resolution photographic image. This finish gives the laminate its realistic stone or wood grain appearance. This specialised layer has been designed to protect against UV damage and scratches, adding to the product’s reputation for being durable and easy to maintain.
The hard-wearing protective coating is usually made of melamine or aluminium oxide, is one of the top reasons why this flooring option is so popular in Australian homes. Laminate flooring provides the aesthetic appearance of natural timber, minus the high cost and also doesn’t require extensive maintenance.
Popular for Good Reason
There are several reasons why laminate is the preferred choice for Australian homes and offices. Our team of experts have compiled the most significant of these.
Highly Durable
When you’re looking for a new flooring option, durability will more than likely top your list of must-have features. Fortunately, laminate is the ideal choice in this regard. With its strong, scratch-resistant resin coating, this flooring solution is highly durable, making it ideal for high-traffic areas in homes with children and pets.
High levels of durability also make laminate a popular choice for commercial properties and workspaces. Keep in mind that for general residential use, you should choose a laminate with an AC rating of 3 or more. For use in heavy commercial spaces, you should opt for a much higher rating.
Cost-Effective
Another top reason to invest in laminate flooring is the cost factor. The good news is that laminate is generally less expensive than the more traditional hardwood options. Potential buyers will also be delighted to learn that the reduced cost doesn’t affect the quality or aesthetic. With a wide range of laminate colours, styles, and textures on offer at your local home improvement centre, finding the best option to accentuate your style is easier than you think.
Hypoallergenic
Some flooring types, such as carpets, are known for trapping dust and other particles. This can cause new or aggravate existing allergies. Laminate flooring is hypoallergenic and also boasts an underlayment that provides a moisture barrier, which means no dust and debris can get trapped. This layer also eliminates mould and bacteria spores from forming or sporing.
Installation is Quick and Easy
A huge attraction to laminate flooring involves the ease with which this product can be installed. Easy installation comes from a design of interlocking boards, which makes it easy to attach and lay down where needed.
Since laminate flooring can be “floated” over just about any existing floors, there’s no need to remove your old floors. This not only saves a considerable amount of installation time. Without the hassle of glue, staples, or nails, you’ll also be saving money on the amount of product needed.
This ease of installation is one of the top reasons why many homeowners prefer to install floors on their own. Opting for the DIY option is as easy as speaking to an agent at your local home improvement centre for the simplest options.
Simple Maintenance
When you’re making a list of the top features that your new flooring should have, you’ll no doubt want to have an option that’s easy to clean and maintain. With its moisture and stain-resistant surface, keeping your laminate flooring clean is as easy as sweeping it daily or wiping it down when needed. There’s no need for harsh cleaning chemicals or excessive water.
Highly Versatile
Whether you’re looking for a flooring solution for your kitchen, bathroom, or even bedroom, the good news is that laminate can work well in any setting. Keep in mind that the only care tip here is to avoid putting your flooring in a space that may be subject to excessive water leaks or spills. It’s always a good idea to repair any water drips or leaks before installing your shiny new floors.
Final Thoughts
It’s easy to see why laminate is the go-to choice for many Australian homeowners. With a wide range of designs and colour options, it’s easier than ever to find the best variation to blend in and even accentuate your current aesthetic. Ease of maintenance and durability make it the perfect option for high-traffic areas, and it’s also an ideal option for any room in your home.
Laila Azzahra is a professional writer and blogger that loves to write about technology, business, entertainment, science, and health.