How to Choose the Perfect Laminate Flooring for Your Home: Expert Tips
You probably know that choosing the right flooring is one of the most important tasks when decorating your home. We’ve all grown to love laminate floors because of their affordability, durability and variety of styles. However, in order for this material to last for many years and harmonize with the interior, you need to approach the choice correctly. In this article we will tell you how to select the ideal option based on parameters such as type, thickness, color and texture, as well as installation. If you need quality flooring, laminate flooring store Oahu can offer a wide range of solutions for your home.
Types of Laminate Flooring
There are several basic types of coating, each of which is suitable for different operating conditions. So let’s take a look at what varieties of this material are available.
- Traditional
The most common type. It is used in residential rooms with moderate load. It is an excellent option for living rooms and bedrooms.
- Moisture-resistant version
It is ideal for areas with high humidity, such as the kitchen or bathroom. It also has special protective layers to prevent water penetration.
- Wear-resistant product
This option is designed for high-traffic spaces such as corridors or commercial areas. It is more durable and resistant to mechanical damage, making it the best choice for places with heavy use.
Thickness and Wear Resistance Class
You should always remember that thickness is one of the key factors affecting durability and walking comfort. Depending on the purpose of utilization, the width can vary from 6 to 12 mm. For residential applications, 8mm thick material is generally used, which provides the best ratio of toughness to cost. In commercial zones or high traffic areas, we recommend using a thicker laminate.
The wear resistance class also plays an essential role in the selection process. Classes range from 21 to 34, where 21-23 are suitable for residential areas and 31-34 for commercial ones. The higher the grade, the more the laminate is tolerant to abrasion, scratches, and other mechanical damage. For a living room or bedroom, a 23-grade flooring is ideal, while for an office or store it is better to choose the 32-34 range.
Color and Texture: How to Match the Interior
The color and texture of the laminate flooring should be in harmony with the rest of your interior. The material can visually change the space: light colors make the room look more spacious and bright, while dark tones add coziness and warmth.
Texture also affects perception. Smooth surfaces are more suitable for modern minimalist interiors, while the relief ones add naturalness and comfort to the room, imitating wood or stone. So choose wisely, pay attention to the style of furniture, walls and lighting to achieve a harmonious design.
Laying: Locking System and Installation Method
We of course recommend modern solutions that are equipped with convenient locking systems such as Click or Lock, which make the installation process much easier. The Click locking system makes it simple to assemble the flooring like a puzzle without the need for glue. So, even if you are inexperienced, you can still do the job.
It is crucial to prepare the subfloor correctly: it must be flat and clean, otherwise the laminate flooring may start to squeak or warp. Also, don’t forget about the carpet pad, which smoothes out irregularities and provides soundproofing. If you are inexperienced, it is better to entrust the laying to professionals to avoid mistakes and guarantee quality results.
Environmentally Friendliness and Safety
Today, more and more attention is being paid to the eco-friendliness of materials, and laminate flooring is no exception. We recommend choosing flooring with ecological certificates that confirm the safety of materials for health. A surface made of safe materials is especially suitable for families with children or pets. Therefore, ensure that the laminate flooring is free of harmful substances and meets quality standards. This will provide a safe living space in your home for years.
Thus, selecting the right flooring is an essential process that requires consideration of various factors. Thanks to a competent approach to the choice, you will be able to create a stylish and comfortable interior that will please you for many years.
