In the 1920’s a Swedish company first developed laminates. The first ones were used for tabletops. The method was used for floorings in the 1970’s. Across Europe, it gained popularity first and then it came to the United States. Laminated flooring came in a variety of styles, durability ratings, and sizes and it was not as expensive as many of the traditional floors at that time. There are four layers in the composite of laminated flooring. On the bottom and top layer is cellulose paper that is saturated in melamine plastic resin. This coating protects the design of the flooring. It is stain, scrape, and burn resistant. The decorative layer is the next layer. It is composed of cellulose paper that has a print or photo of the designed to be used. The core of the laminated flooring is composed from dense wood or fabric particle. It may be treated so it is waterproof.
The direct pressure method is the way that most laminates are processed. This method assembles all four layers together. To form a bond the layers are pressed and heated. Today a newer, higher-pressure method has been developed. This technology is being used on the high-end, more costly laminated flooring. Using the new method the bottom and top layers that contain the plastic resin are treated separately. They are then fused to the core and decorative layers using high pressure.
Most of these types of flooring are designed to look like a hardwood floor but there are some that look like stone or tile. In addition to different styles, there are also many colors. The laminated flooring planks vary in length and width. Although you can tell that it is not real hardwood or real stone laminated flooring offers an economical, easy to install, and attractive option. This type of flooring is fifteen times stronger than your real wooden floors.
When laminated flooring was first installed it had to be glued down. Then it had to dry for at least twenty-four hours. Today it is much easier to install. Most come with a tongue in-grove construction. The sides of the laminated flooring just slide together. There is no need to use glue or nails. This is referred to as a floating floor. Although it is easy to install it can create echoes and be noisy. To help with any noise problems install under the floor some form of cork pad.
To maintain these floors you just use water mixed with ammonia or vinegar, or citrus cleaner with a damp mop. It is important that you keep your laminated flooring clean as dirt and dust could scratch the flooring, especially in high traffic areas. Make sure that you wipe up any spills as soon as they happen.