L
aminate flooring is one of the greatest inventions the world has ever seen. It might sound dramatic, but the genius invention has given homeowners an amazing alternative to traditional flooring options. The installation of laminate floors is incredibly easy, as you only have to snap the pieces together. So, what should you consider when you're purchasing laminate?
Which Styles Are Available?
There are two main styles of laminate flooring, engineered wood, and plastic laminate. Each has its own advantages and both look great.
Engineered Wood
This type of laminate is more expensive than plastic but it gives a stunning wooden finish. The best thing is it's much cheaper than natural wood and it's easy to install. Layers of wood are glued together and an acrylic finish is applied to preserve the flooring and keep it looking nice. The biggest problem with engineered wood is it's easy to dent, but the wood can be sanded and refinished. If it's well looked after then engineered wood lasts longer than plastic laminate. You can find engineered wood flooring for around £25 per square metre.
Plastic Laminate
Plastic laminate looks like wood flooring, but it's a lot cheaper. This flooring is perfect for families or households with pets as it's incredibly durable. The best thing about these floors is they look like wooden flooring but are great for bathrooms and kitchens. Prices are around £13 per square metre.
The Finish
There are loads of finishes available in both options. You can choose a light or dark wood effect and the texture can give the laminate floors a real wood appearance. Some styles have patterns and there are non-wooden effects for bedrooms and leisure rooms.
