Laminate flooring is an attractive and long-wearing alternative to hardwood. Among its many advantages is its durability. When choosing laminate for your home or business, however, the same considerations that apply to carpet, tile or hardwood apply to this type of flooring. You want to make sure that the laminate you choose is appropriate for the space and will stand up to the amount of wear it is expected to get.
Laminate Flooring Reviews- Not All Laminate is the Same
When shopping for laminate, there are certain terms and features you should know about. Laminate is rated based on several factors. To determine what kind of laminate will hold up under heavy wear, for example, you need to know its AC rating. This is a measure of its durability. AC stands for Abrasion Class, and is the industry’s standard rating for a laminates floor’s ability to withstand wear.
This will include such factors as stress, impact, burns, heat, stains and scratches. Laminate flooring reviews also consider a product’s water resistance. This indicates how much the inner core swells when exposed to liquids. The resulting rating will help you decide if that particular floor will hold up to heavy use or if it is more appropriate for a low-wear, dry area such as a bedroom.
In addition to AC ratings, laminate flooring reviews will include an evaluation of the floor’s quality of construction. If you are installing a laminate floor in the kitchen, for instance, you will want a thick, high-quality laminate that will last over many years of constant foot traffic and scuffing. Some floors even come with the underlayment already attached, making for easier installation. This is an important consideration for do-it-yourselfers.
Laminate Flooring Reviews Help You Find the Right Product For You
Laminate flooring reviews also help you understand how your floor was made. Laminates are constructed in two ways, through direct pressure and high pressure. High pressure floors are more durable because the components have been glued together in a two-step process. They are appropriate for any application, including high wear areas. Also, check for water repellency. Higher quality laminates will have a water-resistant coating to protect the inner core.
When it comes to choosing laminate flooring, the bottom line is clear. Finding out which laminate is appropriate for your application will save you time, money and aggravation later on. Laminate flooring reviews help you get the information you need to make an informed decision. Pay attention to the AC rating and type of construction when looking at laminate, and get the flooring that is right for you.
Строительные советы и не только!
