A Home Improvement Marvel
By Candice ManciniRefacingCabinet.com Columnist
Laminate flooring is as common as tiling and siding when it comes to home improvement projects. However, this sturdy and highly versatile material has not been given the credit it deserves. Since its introduction, laminate flooring has impacted the world of home improvement much like the CD has revolutionized music technology.
The Beginning
Developed in Sweden, what we now call laminate flooring derived from a material used in the 1980s for countertop renovations. Contractors were excited by this product they called decorative laminate, as it proved to be incredibly durable for countertops. It was made of several layers of paper, pressed together with resins under high pressure (which made it durable). It was also used in other home improvement projects, including in wall paneling and on tabletops, and soon it was durable enough to be used in flooring.
Laminate versus Wood
While homeowners and contractors often love real wood, it's sometimes hard to tell the difference between wood and laminate. So, if you're considering a floor renovation in your home, think about the advantages that laminate has to offer:
- Laminate flooring costs less than wood
- It's easier to install, reducing contractor fees
- It resists stains, scratches, impacts, fading, and moisture better than real wood
Floors bear the brunt of daily wear and tear. Laminate's resistance to such things has made it incredibly popular, especially in homes with kids and/or pets. But as much as they're loved, they're often taken for granted. It's a true wonder that flooring like this exists.
A Renovation with Choice
Because patterns on laminate derive from high-resolution photographs, you have a variety of design options from which to choose. A multitude of colors, stone looks, brick designs, and more can spice up your kitchen in no time. With such choices and durability, once your flooring contractor finishes this job, you should agree that it's an innovation akin to the compact disc. But unlike the CD, laminate flooring is highly scratch resistant.
Sources
CBS News: Faux Vs. Real Building Products
Floor Facts: Comparison (Hardwood versus Laminate)
NALFA: The History of Laminate Flooring
About The Author
Candice Mancini is a freelance writer, a teacher, and a homeowner with great appreciation for brilliant home improvement innovations.
