Laminate Flooring: What you need to know

Since its introduction in the 1980s, laminate flooring has become an increasingly popular choice for builders and renovators thanks to its durability, affordability and aesthetic appeal. What makes this man-made material standout is that it provides an excellent alternative to wooden floors with much less maintenance, meaning you can achieve the sophistication of timber, minus the fuss.

What is laminate flooring?

Laminate flooring is a cleverly engineered material comprised of multiple layers which are fused together using high pressure and heat to ensure its sturdiness. The base layer acts as the foundation of the laminate plank providing stability and balance. On top of this layer is the main component of the laminate plank, the HDF core (high-density fibre) which contains wood fibres fused together with resin and wax and moulded into a dense plank shape.

Added to the top of this is the decorative layer whereby a high-quality image of any colour or design is placed. This is protected by the final layer of coating which seals the laminate and provides resistance to scuffs, scratches and even UV damage. When sourcing your laminate product, it’s important to deal with a reputable stockist such as Back to Timber, as cheaper alternatives are often made up of sub-standard materials which won’t last as well long-term. It is recommended that laminate floors be installed by an experienced installer. Not only will a professional take individual location circumstances into account, they will also talk you through the best way to care for your new floor.

Back to Timber’s Laminate Flooring Collections

Preference Laminate

Clix Laminate

Quick-Step Laminate Flooring

Australian Select Timbers Laminate

What to consider when buying laminate flooring

There’s no denying the numerous benefits of choosing laminate flooring for your home project. Not only is it inexpensive compared to solid and engineered timber, but it also stands up to the regular scratches and scruffs that come with having kids or pets in your home. In a commercial setting, laminate works well in high foot traffic areas thanks to its robustness. If cleaned correctly and looked after, laminate has the potential to retain its original look for years to come.

Although good quality laminate does wear well, it’s important to consider where the product will be installed in your home and what level of care will be put into it. Laminate flooring, whilst moisture-resistant, is not waterproof (unless specifically stated.) Due to it being made mostly of wood, most laminate is not recommended be used in areas prone to moisture such as laundries or bathrooms as the planks may warp or buckle. Similar to timber floors, consideration for what the floor is cleaned with is imperative as care needs to be taken to not overwet the planks. Often a spray or dust-fibre mop will suffice when cleaning your laminate floors.

If you are looking for a water-proof laminate, perfect for wet areas, we recommend the Preference Aquastop Laminate range.

Repairing Laminate Floors

If small or large imperfections start to show up on your laminate floors thanks to general wear and tear, there are multiple repair options for you to consider. Although there are some DIY products on the market that claim to fix cosmetic repairs it is always recommended you first consult with a professional installer as products such as wax pencils or repair putty may end up making the damage appear worse. Thanks to its cleverly engineered interlocking system, it is also possible to easily replace individual laminate planks or even an entire section and therefore it is recommended that you budget for additional spare planks to be purchased and kept in storage for potential future use. Back To Timber’s professional installers can guide you on the best way to approach any repairs you require in your home or commercial setting.

How will laminate flooring look in your space?

Laminate flooring is renowned for its realistic replication of real timber floors, and in many cases, has the potential to add to the resale value of a home. Back To Timber stocks a stunning selection of laminate shades and tones that will elevate the look of any style of home or commercial venue. At first glance many of the laminate options available are difficult to distinguish from real-wood, with the intricacies, organic markings and flowing lines replicated on each plank.

From warm oaks through to cool greys, it is truly possible to achieve any look using a laminate flooring product. From the ever-popular Hamptons style through to modern coastal vibes, contemporary Scandinavian design or even a mid-century modern aesthetic, laminate flooring truly provides an extensive selection that realistically mimics more expensive flooring options.

Overall, laminate flooring is considered to be one of the most economical yet visually pleasing flooring products on the market. It effectively replicates wood-grain planks, helping builders and renovators achieve their desired look whilst also providing an alternative flooring option that is easy to maintain and repair as necessary.

Check out Back to Timber’s range of laminate flooring below and feel free to contact us with any questions or to get a quote.