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Laminate Flooring - What Is It?
Low cost, a great look and easy installation! That's why laminate flooring is leading the pack in popularity in American flooring choices. A most popular choice in Europe for years, popular companies like Pergo have quickly spread the popularity of laminate floors to America. Early examples of small square pieces that appeared somewhat like narrow plank hardwood floors have today been replaced by beautiful long, wide planks that are nearly indistinguishable from solid wood. Ironically, eventhough laminate flooring is generally much less expensive than solid wood, it is far more durable. Solid wood scratches easier and requires periodic refinishing, while laminate does not.
Laminate flooring is cheaper to buy than hardwood because of its layered construction. It is resistant to scratches, burns, chipping, dents, etc because of a thin top layer of laminate, made of aluminum oxide, making it suitable for foot traffic. The "look" or "pattern" layer is created from a screen to make it look like tile or real wood floors. At the core, is a High Density Fiber which is durable and moisture resistant. This HDF layer resists scratches and stains while providing the strength for the locking system that creates an easy installation.
Laminate flooring is easy to install and uninstall on any surface because it simply lies on top of the sub-floor in a free-floating system in which the planks quickly snap together. Although a few brands still require gluing planks together, most have switched to a no-glue locking system and individual planks can easily be replaced if needed, so you don't need to replace the whole floor.
If you're looking for a great looking floor that is easy to maintain and will last and at the same time is very affordable, then take a close look at laminate flooring. It just might be your best option.
See our Press Release.
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