What Should We Pay Attention When Buying Parquet?

Choosing the Right Laminate Flooring: A Complete Guide

When it comes to flooring options, you’ll find several types claiming to be the “best choice” for you. However, among all the alternatives, laminate flooring stands out as one of the most important options to consider. Its popularity in recent years is not only due to its aesthetic appeal, but also thanks to its durability, versatility, easy maintenance, and budget-friendly nature.

That said, in order to enjoy all these benefits, you need to choose the right laminate flooring. In this guide, we’ll share practical tips to help you find the best option for your needs.

Choosing the Right Laminate Flooring Material

The first step in selecting laminate flooring is choosing the right material. If you want a natural look without straining your budget, engineered or decorative wood laminate can be a great choice. These products have a thin layer of wood on the top surface, which can be prone to scratches or dents over time. However, these issues can be resolved with sanding and polishing, restoring the floor’s original appearance.

Laminate floors bring warmth and style to your home with their wood-like finish. Thanks to their protective surface coating, they are resistant to stains, fading, and scratches. With a wide variety of colors and patterns on the market, you can easily find a model that matches your décor and furniture style.

Selecting the right material is crucial not only for aesthetics but also for durability. A low-quality product may wear out and deform quickly, while high-quality laminate can maintain its form for many years.

Physical Properties and Color Selection

One of the most important physical features to consider when choosing laminate flooring is color, as it can completely transform the atmosphere of a space.

1. Dark-colored floors: Add a luxurious, sophisticated look, but can make small rooms feel smaller and show dust more easily.
2. Light-colored floors: Create a spacious, bright feel, ideal for small or poorly lit rooms.

Things to consider when choosing a color:

1. Room size: Light shades work best in small spaces, while dark tones suit larger areas.
2. Lighting conditions: In rooms with little natural light, lighter tones help reflect light and brighten the space.
3. Décor style: Modern designs often favor grey and light oak tones, while classic décor may call for walnut or dark brown shades.

Keep in mind: Color choice also affects practicality. Very light colors hide dust better, while very dark colors make it more visible.

Laminate Flooring Thickness

Thickness is a key factor for durability, comfort, and lifespan.

1. Thick (10–12 mm): Highly durable, resistant to moisture and impacts, ideal for high-traffic areas like offices, hallways, and living rooms.
2. Medium (8–10 mm): Suitable for daily use, the most common thickness for residential settings.
3. Thin (6–8 mm): A budget-friendly choice, ideal for guest rooms or rarely used spaces.

Thicker boards also help mask minor imperfections in the subfloor and reduce footstep noise for a quieter home.

What to Look for in a Flooring Supplier

When choosing laminate flooring, the supplier matters as much as the product itself. Even the best quality floor will underperform if installed incorrectly.

Key points to check:

1. References and reviews: Customer feedback provides insight into reliability.
2. Product warranty: Check both the duration and coverage.
3. Installation service: Professional installation prevents issues like swelling or gaps.
4. After-sales support: A good supplier will handle post-installation problems promptly.

Trusted companies back up their product quality with certifications and prioritize customer satisfaction with strong after-sales service.

Don’t Compromise on Health

The materials used in laminate flooring must meet safety standards for human health. In particular, formaldehyde emissions must be kept within safe limits.

Two important global certifications are:

1. Blue Angel Certification: Verifies eco-friendly and human-safe production.
2. E1 Certification: Meets European standards for low formaldehyde emissions.

Acarkon products also hold Antibacterial Surface and Antistatic Surface certifications, reducing allergy risks and minimizing static electricity for a healthier living environment.

Laminate Flooring Care and Maintenance

With proper care, laminate flooring can maintain its original look for many years.

Tips for extending its lifespan:

1. Daily cleaning: Use a soft-bristle vacuum or microfiber mop to remove dust and dirt.
2. Moisture control: Avoid excessive water; a slightly damp cloth is sufficient for cleaning.
3. Avoid harsh chemicals: Abrasive cleaners can damage the protective surface.
4. Furniture pads: Use felt pads under furniture legs to prevent scratches.
5. Sunlight protection: Use curtains or blinds in sun-exposed areas to prevent fading.

Comparing Laminate to Other Flooring Types

Laminate flooring offers a balanced mix of price, durability, and ease of maintenance compared to alternatives like solid wood, vinyl, and ceramic tiles.

1. Solid wood: Offers a more natural and prestigious look but is more expensive and requires intensive maintenance.
2. Vinyl: Water-resistant and low-maintenance, but less authentic in appearance.
3. Ceramic tiles: Extremely durable and water-resistant, but cold underfoot and more difficult to install.

Overall, laminate is often the most practical choice for a balance of style, durability, and affordability.

FAQs

1. How long does laminate flooring last?

High-quality laminate can last 15–25 years with proper care.

2. Is laminate water-resistant?

Standard laminate resists moisture but isn’t designed for prolonged water exposure. Opt for water-resistant models for wet areas.

3. What’s the ideal thickness?

For homes, 8–10 mm is ideal; for heavy-use areas, choose 10–12 mm.

4. What if my laminate gets scratched?

Minor scratches can be repaired with touch-up kits; severe damage may require panel replacement.

5. Is laminate compatible with underfloor heating?

Yes, many models are compatible, but always confirm with the manufacturer.

Laminate flooring has become one of today’s most popular flooring options thanks to its stylish appearance, cost-effectiveness, durability, and easy maintenance. To make the most of these benefits, choose the right material, determine thickness and color according to your space, work with a reliable supplier, and check for health certifications. With regular care and cleaning habits, your laminate floor can maintain its elegance for years, adding long-term value and beauty to your home.