How To Choose The Right Laminate Flooring For Your Living Space

Originally popular in Europe, laminate floors have become popular in the US in the last few years - laminate flooring now accounts for around 17% of the residential flooring market. Not only does it look good, but laminate is easier to maintain than wood and ceramic tiles and also costs less.

- Different Types of Laminate

There are several things you should look for when choosing a laminate. Industry standard markings on laminate packaging will tell you if the laminate is suitable for commercial, industrial or residential use. As a general rule, the more expensive it is, the more durable a laminate will be. The room of your house you intend to use the laminate in will also influence the strength of laminate you need. Laminate with a lower wear exposure can be used in bedrooms, whereas you may want a laminate that is moisture resistant for a bathroom, utility room or basement.

The time you intend to stay in your home may also influence the type of laminate floor coverings you buy - paying top prices for a strong laminate with an extended warranty is pointless if you intend to move in a couple of years. Check the warranty carefully that comes with your laminate - some manufacturers' warranties won't cover laminate installed in a bathroom.

- Gloss, Embossed or Engraved?

Apart from the strength of laminate they are also supplied in different finishes. Gloss laminate (also known as all-purpose or smooth finish) feels smooth to the touch and is comfortable enough to walk on barefoot. It is therefore ideal for bedrooms, although one drawback is that under sunlight, a dark colored laminate can make footprints visible. Engraved laminate has a thicker layer of resin than gloss which makes it more durable and resistant to heavy foot traffic. This type of laminate is ideal for a living room, den or playroom - or anywhere else that children may run around. Embossed laminate, as the name suggests has a pattern of tiny ridges or raised areas and tends to have a more realistic look than the smooth laminate.

- Color and Style

Laminate comes in a surprisingly wide variety of colors, textures and patterns. As with any design project for your home, there are also various other considerations when choosing a laminate that fits your lifestyle. One of the first considerations will be whether you want a light or dark laminate. In general, light flooring tends to make a room look larger; dark flooring tends to make a room look smaller. Light laminate flooring also generally creates a more informal and relaxed atmosphere whereas a dark floor tends to be used more in formal homes. You should also consider the color and style of your existing furniture when choosing a laminate color. You can also purchase laminate in patterns - a patterned floor with shading or stripes tends not to show dirt as easily as a solid design. If you have pets or children, you may want to choose your color carefully - light and dark colors tend to make scratches more visible than medium colors.