- Wide availability. Laminate flooring is sold almost everywhere.
- Wide range of design possibilities. The laminate pattern usually imitates different kinds parquet floors, but can also imitate natural stone and tiles and other materials, and wide choose colors and shades allows you to choose a laminate for almost any room.
- Easy to install. Detailed instructions instructions for laying laminate are on each pack; even a child can understand the instructions.
- Fast installation. Do flooring from laminate in a room of up to 30 m2 for two people in 3-5 hours - no problem. You'll just get tired of bending over. Only linoleum or carpet can be laid faster, but before installing baseboards on carpet or linoleum, you need to wait 1-2 weeks until the linoleum or carpet settles down.
- Low price . On average, 1 m 2 of floor costs $8-12 + $2-5 for labor.
- Beautiful appearance . If the laminated boards are of high quality and laid correctly, the base of the floor is even, then you will get an almost perfect smooth surface, neither tiles, nor carpet, nor even linoleum will give such an effect.
- Possibility of partial installation. This is especially true when renovating a room with furniture. Very often, renovations are carried out in an apartment that does not have free rooms where wardrobes, beds and other furniture could be moved during the renovation. Laminate laying technology allows you to make the flooring in parts. For example, you can first make the flooring in one part of the room, then move the furniture onto the finished flooring, then finish laying the laminate, installing the baseboards and arranging the furniture in its place.
- Possibility of laying laminate flooring alone. Previously, it was easier to lay laminate flooring alone. Laminate boards were joined with simple tongue-and-groove joints, and to prevent the boards from creeping apart, the joints were glued. Modern laminate flooring is usually installed without glue, using a click joint. It seems to be even simpler, you don’t even need to glue, but in order to join the boards, you need to insert the tongue of the board being laid into the groove of the one already laid at an angle, and this requires preliminary assembly of the entire strip to be laid. Doing this alone in a room more than 3 meters wide is not very easy, although it is possible.
- Warm floor . Laminate flooring is warmer to the touch than porcelain tile flooring, tiles or natural stone, although it cannot compare with the warmth of linoleum or carpet. However, the use of film heaters allows you to make such a floor really warm.
- High wear resistance. Of course, the wear resistance of the laminate coating is determined by the class of the laminate, and ultimately by the price; any modern laminate should serve in an apartment for at least 5-8 years, but very often the laminate has to be thrown away not at all because of the wear of the laminating layer and they are to blame for this
Disadvantages of laminate floors:
- Low water resistance. This is the biggest drawback of laminate, which can sometimes negate all the above advantages. Moreover, nothing threatens the laminate from above, that’s why it’s a laminate, but laminate boards have joints, and these joints are wet cleaning or when various liquids are spilled, water gets in. When water gets in, the board pressed from wood fibers swells and the protective laminating coating begins to collapse at the joints. Such floors immediately lose their appearance, and it is impossible to restore the laminate - only change it. Even the so-called waterproof laminate (the boards are greenish underneath) will not withstand constant exposure to water, and therefore laying laminate in bathrooms, toilets and even in kitchens and hallways is not recommended. However, even in ordinary rooms, laminate flooring is not immune to water. One of my friends completely replaced the laminate floors in his apartment after his water pipe and water spilled throughout the apartment for several hours. Under no circumstances should laminate floors be washed using grandma's old method - a rag in a bucket and on a mop; laminate flooring will not last even a year if treated this way. Many times I had to observe and change the disastrous results of such treatment of laminate flooring. Helps partially solve the problem of water getting into joints silicone sealant. When laying laminate, the sealant is driven into the joints, and excess sealant is removed with a plastic spatula. But all this, again, is in case of short-term exposure to water on the laminate floor. Some experts advise that if water gets into the joints of the laminate, disassemble the coating and dry it on fresh air, and then put it back, but it seems to me that it is easier to make a floor covering from a different material, so as not to return to this issue, although there are still no ideal floor coverings and sooner or later you will have to return.
- Required preliminary preparation grounds. This is true when laying laminate flooring on old wooden floors or uneven screed. If the base is not leveled before laying the laminate, the laminate boards will sag when walked and creak. The maximum unevenness of the base before laying the laminate allowed by manufacturers is 2 mm/m2.
- Impossibility of restoration. Laminate flooring cannot be sanded or tinted; it can only be replaced. However, laminate changes quickly.
Advantages and disadvantages of laminate, rules for choosing a material taking into account its technical characteristics And decorative design, review of flooring manufacturers.
Advantages and disadvantages of laminate flooring
This flooring material appeared relatively recently - in the 80s of the last century. However, it immediately became quite popular. Today in construction stores There are a huge number of different types of laminate. Wide range of different materials color solutions and structural features allows you to choose best option for any interior.
If previously linoleum was considered the most popular floor covering, today most people choose laminate for interior decoration. This is due not only to the fashion trend, but also to the numerous benefits that come with it.
The main positive characteristics of laminate flooring:
- Wide selection of colors and textures.
- High resistance to various external mechanical factors. There are no traces left on the material from strong pressure, friction, or the movement of heavy objects.
- It has a low fire hazard and high resistance to fire. If cigarette ashes pose a danger to linoleum, then no traces will remain on a high-quality laminate.
- This material does not require special care. It does not need to be scraped or polished like parquet. Simply wipe with a damp cloth. It does not accumulate dirt, bacteria, or dust, so it is great for children's rooms.
- The laminate planks do not contain synthetic substances that are harmful to humans. It is considered a hypoallergenic, absolutely safe material for both adults and children.
- Laminate is easy to install and can be used with any substrate and on various types of subfloors ( wooden joists, concrete screed, “warm floor” system, etc.);
- Long service life and availability.
- A material with high performance characteristics is expensive, its price can be equal to the prices for parquet from natural wood.
- Does not allow constant exposure to moisture. This renders the joints of the laminate planks unusable. They crumble and swell. To prevent this from happening, experts recommend treating it with a water-repellent compound after installation.
In addition, the old parquet boards will creak under the new floor. Therefore, before installing the laminate, it is recommended old material delete. This somewhat complicates the task of finishing surfaces.
If laminate flooring is installed using the “floating” method, swelling or bubbles may appear. To prevent the planks from creaking, they must be laid on an underlying layer 2-4 mm thick. The purchase of this material will also entail considerable expenses.
To choose the best material for your needs, there are certain factors to consider. First of all, when purchasing, pay attention to the structure, wear resistance class, shape of the planks, connection locks and color of the laminate.
Structure of laminate boards
Laminate is a plank, most often rectangular shape, which consists of chipboard and paper pressed under high pressure. A pattern is applied to the top paper layer, which is covered with a layer of melamine or acrylate resin. This way the material is protected from external influence moisture and other negative factors.
The underside is also processed special compounds. This allows you to maintain the shape of the plank and prevent water from penetrating into the structure.
Structure of this material has a direct impact on its service life and use in interior decoration. Today, manufacturers offer types of laminate flooring with the following top layers:
- Traditional. This material resembles the usual wooden floor, which has been varnished on top. The surface has a flat and smooth structure.
- Natural. This laminate option imitates wood. The workmanship is much higher than traditional. The surface has a silky shine, very similar to natural wood.
- Glossy. This type laminate resembles parquet that has been varnished. The difference from the first two types is the absence of “wood pores”, which enhance the resemblance to wood.
- Waxed. This type looks like a hardwood floor that has been heavily waxed.
- Texture. Completely imitates wood. The unevenness of the surface is preserved on it, and “pores” are necessarily present. Most often, a symmetrical pattern is observed on such a laminate. One of the varieties of this type is embossed. The pattern is not repeated in this material.
- Wooden "oiled". It is a complete imitation of wood, heavily impregnated with oil. That is why this laminate has an absolutely smooth and even surface, but without shine.
- Country style. This type imitates a wooden floor made from poorly processed planks. Sometimes this laminate is called “artificially aged.” Looking at this floor, it seems that there are unevenness in it. But this is a visual illusion. The surface is flat and smooth to the touch.
Laminate wear resistance classes
This material is divided into several classes according to the degree of strength. They determine the duration of its operation. Laminate flooring can be used both in public places and at home. However, nursery planks cannot be laid on the floor of a cafe or office.
The most durable material is considered to be with an index of 33. This coating will easily withstand prolonged exposure to water, pressure and friction. Among all types of laminate, this one is considered the most reliable and resistant to external factors. Boards with this indicator are used in public institutions and offices.
The next classes in terms of wear resistance are considered to be classes 31 and 32. In domestic conditions, such laminate is rarely used. Flooring made from it can be found in small offices.
For home interiors, it is recommended to choose class 21-23. Laminate flooring with the lowest strength rating is installed in bedrooms and offices. These rooms have little traffic and low pressure on the floor. Laminate flooring with class 23 is suitable for the kitchen and hallway.
Material with an index of 22 is used in living rooms and children's rooms. However, if you know that your child loves to jump and run, you should choose a higher-class laminate for his room or give preference to another material.
Color range of laminate flooring
In addition to the texture and strength of the laminate, its color is also important. There is an opinion that the color of the floor does not matter - just choose the usual shade of brown. However, this is not true.
Doctors and psychologists have proven that the right floor tone creates an atmosphere of peace and comfort in the room. Lighter or more dark shade will make significant adjustments to the interior of the room and place appropriate accents.
Before choosing laminate a certain color, pay attention to the parameters of the room being designed:
- Purpose. If you want your living room to be cozy, then give preference to golden brown or light brown colors. If you want a strict and formal atmosphere, then the best option would be reddish-brown tones. Laminate of the same color would be appropriate in the office. If your living room is a formal meeting place for guests, then decorate the floor in dark brown.
- Size. When choosing a laminate flooring color, you must take into account the individual characteristics of each room. If it is not large in size and has low ceilings, then a dark shade will enhance all the imperfections and make the room visually even smaller. Choose light tones of brown or gray. This solution will visually enlarge the room and make it more spacious. If the windows of the room face north, then the color of the laminate must be chosen from a warm palette. Yellow and red shades would be appropriate. If your room is constantly flooded sun rays and is large in size, then you can safely choose dark colors for the floor. When doing this, take into account the light intensity. The brighter it is, the darker your floor will look.
- Interior Design. This is another detail that must be taken into account when choosing the color and structure of the laminate. If the room is decorated in classic style, then for the floor covering ideal option the material will match the tone of natural wood. Fans of fashion trends (high-tech) should give preference to laminate flooring that imitates granite, stone, or metal. Is your room decorated in country style or rural house, then feel free to choose for yourself an “aged” laminate in light or brown tones. When finishing in the avant-garde style, materials with non-standard color and texture solutions will be optimal.
Shape of laminate planks
Laminate board may have different shapes. There are two main types on the market today: rectangular planks and square-shaped laminate tiles.
In most cases, laminated long rectangles (1.2-2 meters) are used. This coating is very popular, as it is quite convenient and quick to install. Especially if you need to lay the floor in big room. High-quality and simple locks simplify the work.
If you want to create a more exclusive design indoors, it is recommended to choose laminate in the form square tiles. Such material will be more expensive than rectangular material. In addition, installation of the coating is quite complicated, as it requires careful joining and trimming of the tiles.
Laminate joint locks
Initially, laminated flooring was laid on the floor using glue. Subsequently, a more convenient method was invented - the castle method. Nowadays it is used in most cases.
There are two types of locks:
- Lock. This method was invented first. At the end of the bar there is a figured protrusion, at the other there is a recess of the corresponding shape. During installation, these parts are connected to each other and tapped with a hammer. There are also combs on the ledge that prevent the locks from moving apart. Laminate with this method of fastening is relatively inexpensive, but has a number of disadvantages. If a heavy load is expected on the floor, then it will not last long. Cracks will form in the coating. If there are any irregularities on rough floor such a lock will also break quickly.
- Click. Even a beginner can handle installing laminate flooring with these locks. Installation is very simple: the planks are joined at an angle of 45 degrees and the lock is lightly pressed. After a barely audible click, the boards stand in place. There is no need to tap them. Under additional mechanical loads, the laminate not only does not become loose, but is also strengthened, since in this case the structure is subject to compressive force. In addition, this coating is collapsible. Therefore, in a moving situation, it is quite possible to pack it up and take it with you. The only downside is the relatively high cost.
Manufacturers of laminate flooring
Currently, this material has become so popular and in demand throughout the world that it is produced in many countries. The following laminate brands have proven themselves to be excellent:
- Tarkett (Germany). This is a floor covering of classic “German” quality. The company produces laminate in various shades of wood, with a smooth and textured surface. The brand positions itself as environmentally friendly, as it produces hypoallergenic materials from natural ingredients. Six laminate collections are especially popular.
- Kronotex (Germany). This company has proven itself to be the most productive brand. Every year it produces huge volumes of laminate (50 million square meters), ahead of all market competitors. The planks contain up to 80% natural raw materials. All brand laminates are four-layer and equipped with a special innovative clic-2-clic locking system. Has eight collections.
- Classen (Germany, Poland). A European joint venture that produces flooring at an optimal price-quality ratio. This laminate is primarily chosen for installation in medical and sanitary facilities, since the planks are coated with a special antibacterial composition Microban. In addition, the material is treated with water-repellent impregnation, which protects it from moisture.
- Kaindl (Austria). This manufacturer gives the maximum possible guarantee for its coverage - up to 30 years. The laminate planks are 98% Alpine pine. The remaining two percent is allocated for impregnation and decorative layer. The brand subjects its material to special treatment, thanks to which you will never slip even on a wet floor.
In addition to the class, structure, shape and type of locking connection, great importance have additional characteristics material. The manufacturer indicates them on the packaging with special icons. Study them carefully before choosing laminate flooring.
The information contained therein will allow you to find out:
- Is the type you have chosen suitable for installation on a heated floor?
- Is it moisture resistant;
- Does this material provide resistance to ultraviolet radiation, chemicals, high temperatures, etc.;
- What is the degree of wear resistance of this laminate, is it worthwhile to provide the furniture with special rollers or rubber pads for installation on the material.
Among experts there is no exact answer to the question of which laminate flooring is better. The final decision is made directly by the owner and depends entirely on his personal preferences and financial capabilities. And our given tips will help you do right choice.
When choosing floor coverings, you should be guided by its characteristics. Based on them, you select suitable material for certain areas of your home. Let's consider the advantages and disadvantages of laminate when used in order to choose an option that is acceptable to you.
Laminate flooring is perhaps the leader in demand today. It is functional, beautiful, easy to install and dismantle, moderate in price, and has a lot of advantages. It imitates various types of materials, complementing the overall design of the room with its diversity.
There are several types of it, which makes it possible to choose the right one for your home, office and other premises. But, like any material, it is endowed with both positive properties, and has its drawbacks when used, which we will dwell on.
Advantages and disadvantages of laminate
The aesthetic side is your preference, but in order not to make a mistake when choosing, we will briefly consider the pros and cons of laminate in the apartment.
Advantages of laminate
Disadvantages of laminate
Considering the advantages and disadvantages of laminate when used, let us now dwell on the main disadvantages.
Choosing a laminate class for an apartment
When you are ready to go shopping for building materials, in addition to the quantity, you must decide on the class of laminate. There is a single rule - the higher the class, the stronger and more durable the laminate.
If the bedroom is intended only for relaxation, then class 31 is quite suitable. When you have a crib there, for example, that is, the intensity of walking increases, then prefer 32. This is the most frequently used, one might say, universal class.
Division by class As a builder, I always take a small margin, so in the rooms (living room, children's room, office, dining room) I would lay 32. For the hallway, where there is a high degree of traffic, a good solution would be 32 or 33.
In the kitchen it is better to provide a moisture-resistant option of class 33. This is dictated by the operating conditions of the room - washing floors, the possibility of food stains, unexpected small leaks, impacts from accidentally dropped objects.
The choice of color and the quality of the laminate are actually influenced by many factors. This is the number of people living in the apartment, the presence of small children, teenagers, pets, and other factors.
It is worth taking an individual approach to choosing laminate flooring for your home. Considering all the advantages and disadvantages of laminate when used, you will choose suitable option for each room of your apartment. The video will help you with this.
One of the stages of a major overhaul or finishing works the house is laying flooring. How to choose the right material in accordance with your taste, financial capabilities and practical requirements? It is necessary to obtain information about the quality of the floor covering, the features of its installation, service life, and specific care. It’s worth figuring everything out on your own, because store consultants will talk a lot about the appearance, but will definitely “forget” to list the product’s shortcomings.
In this article we will look at what are the features of such a popular flooring as laminate? In a specialized store, first of all, they will offer dozens of options for this coating, both to the ordinary buyer and to a representative of the supply department of a large construction company. To make the right choice, you need to know all the pros and cons of laminate. Will you need a special tool for installation, and how will it affect high humidity on the operation of the coating, will the surface withstand the abrasive effects of dust and sand? Answering these questions will help you save money on regular maintenance and push the repair time into the distant future.
Disadvantages of laminate floors
Buying a very high-quality laminate and doing the renovation again a year later is a familiar situation for many property owners. This is due to the fact that the shortcomings of the laminate, which can be easily compensated for, were not taken into account. This material loses its attractive appearance under the abrasive influence of sand and dust from heavy traffic, but the presence of a multi-stage shoe cleaning system at the entrance to the room will eliminate this problem. You need to know what laminate flooring is afraid of and how you can extend its service life.
Swelling of the laminate when water gets into the joints
The main disadvantage is sensitivity to moisture, since the base of the laminate is pressed wood board- bad, but still absorbs water. As a result, the slab swells, the geometry changes, locks are broken and the floor surface takes on an unacceptable appearance. To prevent this from happening, it is recommended to adhere to the following rules:
- do not use conventional laminate flooring in rooms with high humidity;
- during installation, avoid the formation of gaps between the panels;
- Do not lay on a damp screed.
How to minimize exposure to moisture if there is a risk of water getting into the flooring? The answer is simple: you need to use collections whose locks are treated with water-repellent compounds. This material is produced by leading manufacturers from Germany, Sweden and Belgium.
Another big drawback is the resonating properties of the material. Unlike wooden floors, laminate flooring reflects the sound of heels that carries throughout the room. These disadvantages of laminate flooring in an apartment where people walk barefoot are not significant and are fully compensated for by the standard one. In offices and public spaces where such noise will disturb, it is recommended to use it as a substrate.
The downside is the high sensitivity to errors in installation technology. However, it is worth noting that this is also true for materials such as parquet, parquet board, which are also demanding on the foundation and compliance with the rules of work. The presence of height differences of more than 2 mm per 1 square meter screeds lead to cracks and lock defects.
Due to the lack of temperature gaps along the walls, the laminate rose
The absence of compensation temperature gaps can lead to deformation of the coating. Poorly connected panels diverge, forming cracks where water can get in with all the ensuing consequences. These disadvantages laminated coating for the floor is compensated by compliance with the installation technology.
Often the buyer is not satisfied with the low maintainability finishing material. Damaged panels can only be replaced, so if there is a possibility of noticeable defects, then you need to find time to think about purchasing several additional boards for urgent repairs.
Advantages of using laminate
Laminate flooring in the apartment (no joints between rooms)
As practice shows, the numerous advantages of laminate have much greater weight in the eyes of potential buyers. They make the material in demand and popular when performing finishing work in premises for various purposes. The main advantages of laminate are as follows:
- Affordable cost - competes in price with linoleum, much cheaper than solid natural wood or ornamental stone, clinker or porcelain stoneware. You can always purchase a collection in accordance with your planned budget.
- Wide range - you can choose the color of the laminate, its texture, and the optimal size. Products are manufactured in different styles, there are original collections for fans of high-tech and modernism.
- Simple installation - just basic usage skills plus and you can get to work.
- There is no need for additional processing - scraping, grinding, coating with antiseptics and protective compounds are not produced during the installation process. This reduces cost and saves time.
- High wear resistance of the surface - the protective layer of all collections easily withstands the impact of the wheels of office chairs, thin heels of women's shoes, high temperature from an accidentally dropped cigarette.
- Good thermal insulation properties – high density pressed board does not make laminate an ideal thermal insulator, but the thermal conductivity coefficient of the material is lower than that of tiles or thin.
- Good sound insulation properties - this is an advantage of laminate in the descriptions of collections with a special additional layer of sound insulation, which allows you to choose this material for renovation in an apartment located above a store or cafe.
- Respectable appearance - the advantage of cladding for laminate flooring is the ability to transform a room. All collections carefully reproduce the texture of natural materials, have rich colors, and easily create an atmosphere of luxury and prosperity.
- Versatility - can be used in any room of the house, office premises, shops and shopping centers. It is possible to choose a floor covering that optimally meets the requirements for wear resistance, which allows you to save money when purchasing.
- Easy maintenance - the laminate surface does not need to be maintained with special means, enough damp cloth with fine pile to quickly remove dust and dirt from the surface.
- - at its core natural wood, during the processing of which a minimum amount of harmful substances is used. The emission of phenol and formaldehyde from the base layer is 2-3 times less than from the chipboard from which cabinet furniture is created, including children's furniture.
- Long service life - when renovating an apartment, the first thing you should pay attention to is the service life of the flooring. It depends on how often you have to spend money on maintaining coziness and comfort. Manufacturers produce modern collections whose service life reaches 25 years, and some even come with a lifetime warranty.
Properly selected characteristics add advantages practical application for this material. These include the opportunity to purchase panels different sizes and colors to create an exclusive, unique interior. Such collections are offered by many industry leaders. All the advantages of laminate seriously outweigh the disadvantages, so the consumer votes with his money for this type of product.
conclusions
Dark laminate flooring in the apartment
The minor shortcomings of laminate do not make it a less popular coating. Most of them are compensated by compliance with basic standards of reliability of the water supply system and operating rules. Water – main enemy many materials, but always, if necessary, it is possible, characterized by high hydrophobicity.
Variety and attractive design make this flooring suitable for apartments ideal solution. No less important is the opportunity self-installation, and good performance characteristics. A comparison of the advantages and disadvantages of laminate allows us to place it above other materials in a number of basic parameters, including price, durability, aesthetics, and practicality. Choosing products from a well-known manufacturer and proper installation will help you not to be disappointed in this floor covering.
